Crafting your Festive Christmas Bread is easy when you follow these straightforward steps:

1. Prepare Yeast: In a small bowl, combine the warm milk, granulated sugar, and yeast. Let it rest for about 10 minutes until it becomes frothy.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients: In another bowl, beat the eggs, then add melted butter and vanilla extract. Mix until well combined.
4. Combine Mixtures: Pour the yeast mixture and the egg mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir with a wooden spoon until a dough begins to form.
5. Knead Dough: Transfer the dough to a floured surface and knead for about 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
6. Add Fruits and Nuts: Gently fold in the dried fruits and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the dough.
7. First Rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl. Cover with a damp cloth and let rise in a warm place for about 1-1.5 hours until doubled in size.
8. Shape Bread: Punch down the dough to remove excess air. Divide it into three equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long rope and braid them together.
9. Second Rise: Place the braided dough onto a greased baking sheet. Cover it with a towel and let rise for another 30-45 minutes.
10. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
11. Apply Egg Wash: Brush the top of the braid generously with the egg wash.
12. Bake: Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and sounds hollow when tapped on the bottom.
13. Cool Down: Remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool on a wire rack for about 20 minutes before slicing.

With these steps, you’ll have a beautiful and delicious Festive Christmas Bread to enjoy during the holidays!