As the holiday season approaches, I find myself drawn to the joyous hustle and bustle of festive baking. One chilly afternoon, while waiting for the snow to blanket the world outside, I was inspired to create something truly special: Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. This delightful loaf is not just a recipe; it’s a celebration of flavors moist, buttery, and awash with vibrant red and green sprinkles that bring cheer to any table.
Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch, looking for a sweet gift to share, or simply in need of a cozy breakfast treat, this festive loaf fits the bill perfectly. What I love most is how easy it is to whip up, making it ideal for bakers of all ages. Just imagine the smiles on your loved ones’ faces as you present them with a warm slice of this holiday magic it’s the little things that create the biggest memories. Join me as we dive into this joyful recipe and fill our homes with the comforting scents of the season.
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Festivity at Your Fingertips: This recipe brings holiday cheer straight into your kitchen, making baking a delightful experience.
Moist and Buttery: Each slice promises a rich, tender crumb that’s simply irresistible.
Vibrant Visuals: The bright red and green sprinkles make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any festive gathering.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones mixing, pouring, and decorating creating memories together.
Quick and Easy: With simple steps, you can create this delightful loaf without a hitch, even on your busiest days!
Versatile Joy: Serve it for breakfast, dessert, or as a charming gift; it suits every holiday occasion beautifully.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups, 210g) – Provides structure for the bread; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Serves as a leavening agent to help the bread rise.
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Works with the acidity of buttermilk for extra leavening.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor and balances the sweetness of the bread.
- Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup, 1 stick) – Adds richness and moisture; you can substitute with margarine if desired.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup, 200g) – Sweetens the bread; feel free to adjust to taste or swap with a sugar alternative.
- Large eggs (2) – Acts as a binder and contributes to the bread’s tenderness.
- Buttermilk (1 cup, 240ml) – Provides moisture and a tangy flavor; create a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup milk, letting it rest.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Adds an aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
- Red and green sprinkles (½ cup) – For festive decoration; using jimmies will prevent color bleeding in the bread.
Optional Topping
- Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon) – Adds a delightful, crunchy texture on top when baked.
- Additional sprinkles – Use for a cheerful garnish and visual appeal to your loaf.
How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Preheat Oven: Start by setting your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined this creates the perfect base for your bread!
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and sugar together until smooth. Gradually add in the eggs, one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract and buttermilk. Mix until everything is nicely blended!
- Incorporate Dry Mix: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your bread nice and tender!
- Fold in Sprinkles: Gently fold the red and green sprinkles into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without overmixing, which will help maintain their vibrant color!
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. If you’d like, sprinkle some coarse sugar or extra sprinkles on top for added crunch and flair.
- Bake: Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick around the 40-minute mark; it should come out clean when the bread is ready!
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before gently transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely to enhance its texture and flavor.
Optional: Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra holiday touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread are perfect for meal prep, making your holiday baking a breeze! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance. Simply mix the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them before adding the sprinkles (to keep them vibrant!). Store the mixed batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, pour it into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake as instructed, and you’ll have a delightful, festive loaf that’s just as delicious as if you’d made it fresh that day!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Stay Tender: Avoid overmixing after adding the dry ingredients; this ensures your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread remains soft and moist.
- Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick around the 40-minute mark it’s crucial for perfectly baked bread; it should come out clean when done!
- Flavor Boost: For a richer taste, consider using browned butter instead of melted butter; it enhances the overall flavor beautifully.
- Sprinkle Smart: Use jimmies instead of nonpareils for the red and green sprinkles to prevent any color bleeding in your festive loaf.
- Customize: Don’t hesitate to add white chocolate chips or dried cranberries; they elevate your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread with delightful flavors and textures!
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
As you bask in the warm aroma of freshly baked bread, consider how to complement this festive treat to elevate your holiday gatherings.
- Hot Cocoa: Rich and creamy, it pairs perfectly with the sweet, buttery bread, crafting a cozy winter indulgence.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: A delightful spread transforms your bread into a sweet treat, enhancing the festive flavor with a rich, creamy layer.
- Honey Butter: This sweet and savory delight adds a luscious touch, making each bite of bread even more irresistible.
- Yogurt and Berries: A fresh and tangy side complements the sweetness of the bread, adding a lightness ideal for breakfast or brunch.
- Fruit Salad: Bright, refreshing fruits bring a pop of color and balance the richness of the bread, making each bite a cheerful explosion.
- Spiced Eggnog: This seasonal drink pairs beautifully, with its warm spices enhancing the cozy vibes of your baking creation.
- Vanilla Glaze: A light drizzle not only adds sweetness but also makes for an elegant presentation that dazzles at any holiday table.
- Black Coffee: The bold flavor of coffee balances the sweetness of your loaf, creating a delightful contrast perfect for any time of day.
- Mini Loaves for Gifting: Bake a batch of smaller loaves to share, presenting them as adorable, cozy gifts during the holiday season!
- Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla or peppermint ice cream transforms your bread into a delightful dessert, ideal for festive celebrations.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to sprinkle some creativity into your baking with these delightful twists on the classic recipe. You’ll be amazed at how a few simple changes can bring new flavors and textures to your holiday bread!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend to include everyone in the festivities without compromising on taste.
- Add-ins: Consider adding ½ cup of chopped walnuts or dried cranberries for a chewy texture and extra flavor, making each bite even more delightful.
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor with ½ teaspoon of almond extract instead of vanilla, giving your loaf a unique twist that’ll impress your guests.
- Citrus Zest: Add the zest of 1 orange or lemon for a refreshing, uplifting note that complements the sweetness perfectly.
- Mini Loaves: Use mini loaf pans for individual treats; just adjust baking time to about 30 minutes for cute gifts that everyone will adore!
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Create a simple cream cheese mixture (8 oz cream cheese, 1/4 cup sugar, 1 egg) and swirl it into your batter before baking. The result? A deliciously creamy surprise in every slice!
- Spicy Heat: For those who enjoy a little kick, incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm and cozy spice that’s perfect for winter mornings.
- Sugary Crunch: Top your loaf with a crumble made of brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon before baking for a delightful crunchy topping that contrasts beautifully with the soft bread.
Each variation opens up a world of festive possibilities, ensuring your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread becomes even more of a cherished tradition!
Storage Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Room Temperature: Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.
Fridge: If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate the bread, which keeps it fresh for up to a week. Make sure it’s wrapped tightly to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator when ready to enjoy!
Reheating: To reheat, slice and place in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy your warm, festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread at any time!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What should I look for in ripe ingredients?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, ensure that your eggs are fresh check the sell-by date. For the buttermilk, look for a creamy texture and a pleasant tangy scent. Your butter should be soft and free from any strange smells. And for the sprinkles, make sure they’re vibrant and intact to add that festive flair!
How should I store my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
This bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, refrigerate it wrapped tightly for up to 1 week. Remember to let it cool completely before storing to maintain its lovely moist texture!
Can I freeze the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For an extra cozy treat, warm the slices in a toaster or microwave!
What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
Very good question! If the bread doesn’t rise, check your baking powder and baking soda to ensure they’re fresh—older leavening agents lose their potency. It’s also crucial to mix the wet and dry ingredients gently and not overmix once combined to achieve the best rise. Additionally, ensure your oven temperature is accurate; an oven thermometer can help with this!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is vegetarian. For those with gluten sensitivities, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend without changing the other ingredients. If cooking for kids or those with allergies, make sure to avoid any add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips for safety.
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Joyful Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth. Gradually add eggs, vanilla extract, and buttermilk until blended.
- Stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined.
- Fold in the red and green sprinkles gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth the top, and add optional toppings.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.