★Ingredients
¼ cup sugar
2 ¼ teaspoons (1 packet) active dry yeast
3 ½ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon salt
¼ cup warm water (110°F / 45°C)
½ cup warm milk (110°F / 45°C)
¼ cup unsalted butter, melted
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 large egg
½ cup raisins (or a mix of golden raisins and cranberries)
1 tablespoon milk (for brushing)
½ cup dried cranberries
★Instructions
- Prepare the Dough*
In a small bowl, combine the warm water, warm milk, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until the mixture is foamy.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract to the flour mixture. Stir to combine.
Knead the dough for 8-10 minutes by hand or in a stand mixer with a dough hook until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- First Rise*
Transfer the dough to a lightly greased bowl. Cover with a towel or plastic wrap and let it rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours, or until it doubles in size.
- Prepare the Filling*
While the dough is rising, soak the dried fruits (raisins and cranberries) in warm water for 10 minutes, then drain and pat them dry.
- Shape the Wreath*
After the dough has risen, punch it down and transfer it to a floured surface.
Roll out the dough into a rectangle (about 12×18 inches).
Evenly sprinkle the soaked raisins and cranberries over the dough.
Roll the dough tightly into a log from the long side, just like when making cinnamon rolls.
Once rolled, carefully slice the log down the middle lengthwise to expose the layers of dough and fruit. Twist the two halves together and form a ring, pinching the ends together to seal.
- Second Rise*
Place the twisted wreath in a greased round baking pan or on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover with a towel and let it rise for another 30-45 minutes.
- Bake*
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Brush the top of the dough with milk for a golden finish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
- Cool and Serve*
Let the bread cool slightly before serving. You can dust it with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple icing if desired.
Enjoy!