Winter Citrus Sweet Bread Ring

Dough

1 cup warm milk
2 1/2 tsp active dry yeast
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2 eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract
2 tsp orange zest
3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp salt

Fruit and Nut Mix

1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/3 cup candied orange peel
1/3 cup chopped macadamia nuts or almonds

White Icing

1 cup heavy cream
3 tbsp powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Decorations

1–2 dried orange slices
1 cinnamon stick
1 tbsp freeze-dried raspberry bits
Powdered sugar (optional)

Instructions

1. Activate the Yeast

Warm the milk until lightly hot to the touch. Add the yeast and a pinch of sugar. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.

2. Make the Dough

Whisk the melted butter, eggs, vanilla, orange zest, and sugar into the yeast mixture.
Add the flour and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.

3. Knead

Knead by hand or in a mixer for 6–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Fold in the dried cranberries, candied orange peel, and nuts.

4. First Rise

Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.

5. Shape the Ring

Punch down the dough and form it into a large ring or wreath shape.
Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Cover and let rise for another 30–45 minutes.

6. Bake

Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Let it cool completely before decorating.

7. Prepare the Icing

Whip the heavy cream, powdered sugar, and vanilla until stiff peaks form.

8. Decorate

Pipe or spoon the icing around the top.
Add the dried orange slices, raspberry bits, and a cinnamon stick.
Finish with powdered sugar if desired.