Christmas Bread

I've been making this Christmas Bread forever, it's full of cheerful colors and big seasonal flavors! Maraschino cherries, carrots, coconut and cloves come together for a loaf of quick bread that's perfect with tea or coffee. And mini-loaves make great gifts too:@)

Cooled and wrapped well this is even better the next day!

2024 Update: Added walnuts, cinnamon and topped with sanding sugar. Half batch (one egg) makes two mini loaves.

Christmas Bread-adapted from BH&G Three C Bread
2 1/2 C A/P flour
1 C sugar
1 tsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp ground cloves-my addition
3 eggs
1/2 C vegetable oil-I use at least half applesauce
1/2 C milk
2 C shredded carrots
1 1/3 C shredded coconut
1/2 C maraschino cherries, drained and cut in quarters-can add more:@)

1. Mix dry.
2. Mix wet and add to dry.
3. Fold in the carrots, coconut and cherries.
4. Pour batter into greased 9x5x3 loaf pan or 3-4 mini loaf pans.
5. Bake at 350 degrees for 45-50 minutes for big pan, 35 minutes for mini loaf pans, or until toothpick comes out clean.

Eat well and have a happy day:@)