As the first snowflakes of winter begin to dance through the air, my kitchen transforms into a festive haven filled with warmth and joy. One bite of this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, with its buttery richness and cheerful sprinkles, instantly evokes the spirit of the holiday season. This delightful quick bread is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual treat, with its vibrant red and green sprinkles adding a touch of cheer to any brunch table.
I discovered this recipe on a particularly chilly afternoon, when the idea of cozying up with a slice of freshly baked bread felt irresistible. Easy to make and perfect for sharing, it’s a fantastic way to engage little ones in the kitchen or to brighten a friend’s day with a thoughtful homemade gift. Each slice is soft, moist, and bursting with festive flavor, making it a delightful addition to your holiday spread. So, grab your mixing bowl and let’s embark on this cheerful baking adventure together!
Why is Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread special?
Festive Charm: Each slice of this bread is like a celebration on a plate, filled with colorful sprinkles that bring joy to your table.
Easy Preparation: With minimal steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs looking for a quick holiday treat.
Moist and Buttery: The buttermilk keeps the bread incredibly moist, while a hint of butter gives it a rich flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a sweet breakfast with hot cocoa, or package it as a delightful homemade gift this season.
Family-Friendly: Involve kids in the fun of baking, making memories as they stir and sprinkle their way to deliciousness!
Get ready to impress your friends with this easy-to-make yet stunning bread; it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any festive gathering.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
• Gather these essentials for a festive delight!
For the Bread
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture; you can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free version.
- Baking Powder – A key leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- Baking Soda – Works in tandem with buttermilk for extra leavening power.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor and balances sweetness beautifully.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; can be swapped out with oil for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread nicely; consider using brown sugar for a deeper flavor profile.
- Eggs – Essential for binding and moisture; aquafaba is a vegan substitute you can use.
- Buttermilk – Adds that crucial tanginess for texture; mix regular milk with lemon juice or vinegar for a quick swap.
- Vanilla Extract – Infuses the bread with warm flavor; almond extract can be a delightful alternative.
For the Festive Touch
- Red and Green Sprinkles – Bring a cheerful, holiday vibe to your bread; opt for jimmies to prevent bleeding colors.
- Coarse Sugar (Optional) – Adds a delightful crunch as a topping.
- Additional Sprinkles (Optional) – For a finishing touch of festive flair.
Now you’re all set to whisk up a spectacular loaf of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread that will surely herald the joys of the holiday season!
How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure easy removal later.
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Whisk Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk them together until well blended, which helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until combined. Then, add the eggs one at a time, followed by the buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until everything is smooth.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your bread tender and light!
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Fold in Sprinkles: Gently fold in the red and green sprinkles, ensuring they are distributed evenly throughout the batter. Remember to mix carefully to keep those sprinkles vibrant!
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Pour and Bake: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar on top for extra sweetness and crunch. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
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Cool: Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. This downtime helps set the texture perfectly!
Optional: Drizzle your loaf with a sweet vanilla glaze for an added touch of indulgence.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Mix Gently: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense loaf. Stir just until ingredients are combined for a light, fluffy texture.
- Check Freshness: Ensure your baking powder and soda are fresh to achieve the perfect rise in your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
- Doneness Test: Start checking your bread around the 40-minute mark. A toothpick should come out clean—avoid overbaking for optimal moisture.
- Cool Properly: Cool the bread in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a rack to prevent sticking and retain its lovely texture.
- Customize Sprinkles: Use jimmies instead of nonpareils to keep colors vibrant without bleeding, enhancing the festive look of your bread.
Storage Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Room Temperature: Keep the cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature to maintain its delightful moisture and flavor.
- Fridge: For longer storage, place the bread in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to a week; wrap it well to prevent drying out.
- Freezer: Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy this festive treat again.
- Reheating: If desired, warm slices in a toaster or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked taste. Enjoy your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Customize your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread with these delightful variations that add your personal touch!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for everyone to enjoy.
- Sweeten Up: Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
- Dairy-Free: Replace the buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a teaspoon of lemon juice.
- Nutty Twist: Incorporate chopped nuts—walnuts or pecans—for a crunchy texture alongside the sprinkles.
- Berry Burst: Fold in dried cranberries or blueberries for a fruity surprise that pairs beautifully with the festive sweetness.
- Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips for an indulgent touch that balances nicely with the sweetness of the bread.
- Almond Flavor: Swap vanilla for almond extract to introduce a nutty warmth that complements the festive spirit.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for an aromatic twist that enhances the holiday flair.
Embrace the fun of baking and let your creativity shine with these tasty twists!
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Indulge in the delightful experience of creating a festive meal that brings hearts and bellies together.
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Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy goodness of hot cocoa is a perfect pairing, offering warmth alongside the festive bread’s sweetness. Imagine cozying up with a steamy mug, enhancing the sensory experience of your treats.
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Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of cream cheese adds a luscious tang that beautifully complements the bread’s sweetness, making each bite even more decadent.
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Honey Butter: Sweet honey butter drizzled over warm slices enhances the flavor, creating a blissful, melt-in-your-mouth moment that transforms breakfast into a celebration.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer your rustic buttermilk bread with yogurt and fresh fruit for a vibrant breakfast plate that balances indulgence with healthy elements.
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Citrus Salad: A refreshing citrus salad bursts with zest and brightness, cutting through the richness of the bread while adding a colorful touch to your table.
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Spiced Chai Tea: The aromatic spices in chai resonate beautifully with the butteriness of the bread, promising a comforting and uplifting experience.
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Berry Compote: Drizzle a luscious berry compote over each slice to infuse it with a tangy sweetness, elevating your holiday experience.
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Vanilla Glaze: If you’re looking for a sweet finish, a simple vanilla glaze drizzled on top will add charm and extra sweetness to each slice, ensuring every bite is a festive treat.
Make Ahead Options
Busy home cooks will find that this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is an excellent candidate for meal prep! You can mix the dry ingredients (all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) up to 3 days in advance, storing them in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Additionally, the wet ingredients (butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla) can be combined and refrigerated for up to 24 hours; just be sure to bring them to room temperature before mixing with the dry ingredients. This way, you can finish baking with minimal effort. When ready to bake, simply fold in the sprinkles, pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake for delightful, festive results that are just as delicious as when made fresh!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right buttermilk?
Absolutely, for this recipe, you want to use buttermilk that is fresh and well within the expiration date. If you’re in a pinch, you can easily make a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar; let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until slightly thickened. This will give your bread that tangy flavor and moisture that’s essential for the perfect Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
What’s the best way to store leftover bread?
I recommend keeping your cooled Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need to store it longer, wrap it tightly and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just ensure that you seal it well to avoid drying out; nobody wants a stale slice during those festive gatherings!
Can I freeze this bread, and if so, how?
Certainly! To freeze your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, first ensure it has completely cooled. Wrap slices tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a zip-top bag or airtight container to prevent freezer burn. It will remain delicious for up to 2 months! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge before warming it up in the toaster or microwave – the texture comes back to life beautifully!
What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
Very often, the issue lies with the leavening agents! Ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh; stale leavening agents can lead to dense bread. Additionally, be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can lead to a tough texture. If the bread rises but then falls in the middle, it may have been underbaked – always check with a toothpick to make sure it comes out clean.
Is this recipe suitable for those with allergies?
While this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is vegetarian-friendly, it does contain common allergens like eggs and dairy. For a vegan alternative, you can substitute eggs with aquafaba (3 tablespoons for each egg) and use a dairy-free milk option with a splash of vinegar for buttermilk. Always check your sprinkle ingredients too, as some can contain gluten or dairy.
How long can I keep this bread in the fridge?
The flavor and texture of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread can last in the fridge for up to a week! Just make sure to wrap it well to keep it fresh, as the cool air can dry it out quickly. You can enjoy a festive slice with your morning coffee or a cozy cup of tea anytime throughout the week!
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Sweet Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, followed by buttermilk and vanilla extract, mixing until smooth.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in red and green sprinkles gently until evenly distributed throughout the batter.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired. 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 it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Optionally drizzle with a sweet vanilla glaze for added indulgence.
