As the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through my kitchen, I can’t help but feel that magical pull of the holiday season. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is not just another recipe; it’s a festive delight that transforms any gathering into a celebration. Adorned with vibrant red and green sprinkles, this moist and buttery bread is perfect for cozy brunches or as a delightful gift to share with loved ones. Best of all, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it ideal for bakers of all skill levels—including those little helpers who bring joy to the kitchen. Are you ready to sprinkle some holiday cheer into your next baking adventure?
Why Is This Bread Perfect for Holidays?
Irresistible Festivity: This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread adds a pop of color to your holiday table, instantly lifting spirits and creating festive vibes.
Moist and Buttery: You’ll love the moist texture thanks to buttermilk, making it as comforting as a holiday hug.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is a pleasure to prepare, perfect for busy holiday schedules!
Family-Friendly Fun: Kids can dive into the action, folding in sprinkles and bringing excitement to the kitchen!
Versatile Delight: Serve it plain, or pair it with cream cheese or honey butter for a delicious twist that complements your holiday table.
This bread is sure to bring warmth and cheer into any gathering, ensuring everyone goes home with a slice of joy.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (210g) – Provides structure; substitute with a gluten-free blend for a different twist.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent for that delightful rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with buttermilk for enhanced fluffiness in every slice.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances and elevates the overall flavor profile.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – Adds rich moisture; coconut oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g) – Sweetens the bread; brown sugar can provide a deeper flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the mixture and ensures proper structure.
- 1 cup buttermilk (240ml) – Keeps the bread moist; substitute with a milk-lemon juice mix if necessary.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Infuses the bread with delightful flavor.
- ½ cup red and green sprinkles (jimmies style; avoid nonpareils) – Brings a festive touch that defines this holiday treat!
Optional Topping
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar – Adds a delightful crunch on top.
- Additional sprinkles for garnish – Enhances the festive presentation beautifully.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat & Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms, line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or generously grease it with butter or cooking spray. This ensures your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread releases easily post-baking. A well-prepared pan will help achieve that beautiful golden crust you’re aiming for.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Make sure the mixture is well combined and free of lumps. This step is crucial for evenly distributed leavening agents, which will help your festive bread rise beautifully as it bakes, creating that light texture everyone will love.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine ½ cup of melted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar, whisking them until smooth and creamy. Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time, stirring well between each addition to incorporate them fully. Finally, mix in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk, creating a luscious, mixture full of flavor perfect for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; this is key to keeping your bread light and fluffy. A few flour streaks are okay—this avoids the dreaded dense texture. Each fold brings your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread closer to a warm, festive delight.
Step 5: Fold in Sprinkles
Gently fold in ½ cup of red and green sprinkles with a spatula. Ensure even distribution while being careful not to over-mix, as you want the sprinkles to retain their vibrant colors. This step not only adds a festive look but enhances the joy of baking this Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread, creating a treat that looks as delightful as it tastes.
Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you desire, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar or additional sprinkles on top for extra crunch and decoration. Place in the oven and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread will fill your kitchen with holiday cheer as it bakes.
Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. This step helps it set and makes it easier to remove from the pan. After cooling, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. This final cooling ensures perfect slicing and enhances the moist texture of your festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to make this delightful recipe your own with these fun twists and substitutions that bring unique flavors and textures to your holiday table!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend to accommodate dietary needs without sacrificing flavor. It’s as good as the original!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the buttermilk with a plant-based milk mixed with vinegar, or choose coconut oil instead of butter for a delightful vegan option.
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Flavor Burst: Stir in ½ teaspoon almond extract for a warm nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bread.
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Chocolate Delight: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips to the batter for a luscious sweet surprise that kids and adults alike will adore!
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Nutty Crunch: Fold in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and depth, complementing the moist crumb wonderfully.
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Citrus Zing: Grate the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter for an invigorating zing that brightens each slice! It’s like sunshine in your mouth.
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Mini Loaves: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for sweet gifts or treats, adjusting bake time to about 30 minutes for bite-sized delights.
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Glaze Option: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the cooled bread made from powdered sugar and milk for a decadent touch that makes the sprinkles pop!
Remember, if you’re looking for more ways to sprinkle joy into your holiday season, consider pairing this bread with a festive hot cocoa or a frosting recipe to elevate your baking game even further!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dry ingredients—flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt—up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, the wet ingredients (butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla) can be measured out a day ahead. When you’re ready to bake, simply mix in the prepped dry ingredients and fold in the festive sprinkles. This ensures that your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread will be just as delicious with minimal effort, allowing you to enjoy the magic of the season!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing can lead to dense bread; blend gently until just combined for light and fluffy results.
- Measure Accurately: Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements, particularly for flour, to ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread has the perfect texture.
- Check Doneness Early: Begin checking for doneness at the 40-minute mark; overbaking can dry out the bread, so keep a close eye!
- Cool Thoroughly: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing; this will help maintain its moisture and make for neat, even slices.
- Adjust for Elevation: If you’re baking at higher elevations, consider reducing the baking powder slightly to avoid excessive rise and potential collapse.
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
The delightful charm of this festive loaf opens the door to a world of delicious pairings, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Creamy Hot Cocoa: The richness of hot cocoa beautifully complements the sweetness of the bread, creating a cozy pairing for chilly mornings.
- Honey Butter: This spread adds a touch of sweetness and creaminess to each slice, enhancing the moist texture of your bread for a delightful treat.
- Festive Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits brings freshness and a burst of color, balancing the richness of the buttery bread beautifully.
- Spiced Chai Latte: Warm spices in chai bring warmth that harmonizes with the flavors of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, enhancing its festive vibe.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Top a warm slice with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to create a delightful contrast of temperatures and textures for dessert lovers.
- Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses provides a savory contrast, making for a unique and gourmet addition to your holiday spread.
- Cashew Nut Crunch: The crunch of seasoned nuts delivers a satisfying texture that contrasts with the softness of the bread, creating a playful eating experience.
- Sweet Potatoes: Roasted or mashed, their sweetness pairs nicely to deepen the flavor profile of your holiday table while adding a seasonal touch.
- Mulled Wine: Enjoy this traditional spiced drink alongside the bread for a festive celebration, perfect for cozying up with loved ones on chilly evenings!
- Gingerbread Cookies: Pairing these iconic holiday cookies adds to the cheerful décor and sweetness that complements the festive loaf splendidly.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain freshness.
Fridge: If you want to extend its life, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week. This will help keep it moist.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before slicing.
Reheating: To refresh the slices, lightly toast or microwave them for a few seconds. This brings back its delightful moistness and flavor, making it feel fresh again!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of sprinkles should I use for this recipe?
Opt for jimmies-style sprinkles, as they hold their color and texture well in the baking process. Nonpareils tend to bleed, leaving unsightly colors throughout your bread. Red and green jimmies will give you that festive look while ensuring the sprinkles remain intact.
How should I store the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to extend its lifespan, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it. This way, it will stay moist for up to a week.
Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap your finished loaf tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply let it thaw overnight in the fridge, and it’s like you just baked it fresh!
What should I do if my bread turns out dense?
If your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is dense, it may be due to overmixing or incorrect flour measurement. Always mix until just combined, and try using a kitchen scale for accurate flour measurement. Additionally, if you live at a high altitude, you might need to adjust the leavening agents slightly.
Is this recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is vegetarian-friendly. For a dairy-free option, simply substitute unsalted butter with coconut oil, and use a non-dairy milk plus vinegar or lemon juice in place of buttermilk. Always check your sprinkles for any allergen concerns, as some brands may contain gluten or dairy.
How can I enhance the flavor of my bread?
You can add different flavors to your bread by incorporating ½ teaspoon of almond extract or vanilla glaze on top for an extra sweet touch. You can also mix in some chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried fruits to cater to your taste. The more the merrier when it comes to creative add-ins!
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare the loaf pan.
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- In a large bowl, mix melted butter and sugar until creamy, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla and buttermilk.
- Gradually combine the dry ingredients with the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the red and green sprinkles with a spatula.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 45–55 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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