As I stood in my kitchen, the scent of melting butter and warm sugar wafting through the air, I couldn’t help but think of the joy that comes with baking during the holidays. Enter my festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, a delightful way to add a sprinkle of cheer to your seasonal gatherings. This easy-to-make loaf isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s also a feast for the eyes, with its vibrant red and green sprinkles that brighten any holiday table. Perfect for cozy breakfasts or thoughtful gifts, this vegetarian delight brings families together, making memories with every slice. Plus, its quick prep time ensures you can spend more moments savoring the celebration rather than slaving away in the kitchen. Ready to spread some holiday cheer with your own warm loaf? Let’s dive into this charming recipe!
Why Is This Bread So Festive?
Festive Appeal: The vibrant red and green sprinkles make this loaf a true centerpiece for any holiday gathering, instantly brightening up your table.
Moist & Flavorful: Made with rich buttermilk and butter, this bread offers a tender crumb that’s deliciously soft with every bite!
Quick & Easy: Whip up a delightful loaf in no time; this recipe is perfect for those busy holiday mornings or last-minute gifts.
Versatile: Enjoy it as a holiday breakfast with cream cheese, or slice it for charming dessert platters. The options are endless!
Family-Friendly: Kids will love decorating the bread with sprinkles, making it a fun cooking activity for the whole family.
If you’re also interested in adding a delicious touch to your breakfast table, you might want to check out my Savory Chicken Bread or try my scrumptious Banana Bread Brownies.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
• A sweet loaf to cherish!
For the Bread
- 1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (210g) – Provides structure; a gluten-free flour blend can be used here.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – A leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for the best rise.
- ½ teaspoon baking soda – Works with buttermilk for that perfect lift.
- ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavors; omitting it can dull the taste.
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled – Adds moisture and richness; substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200g) – Sweetness factor; brown sugar can offer a deeper flavor.
- 2 large eggs – Acts as a binding agent; replace with ½ cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan alternative.
- 1 cup buttermilk (240ml) – Provides moisture and flavor; you can use milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice as a substitute.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract – A flavor enhancer; almond extract can be used for a delightful twist.
- ½ cup red and green sprinkles (jimmies style) – Adds a festive flair; avoid nonpareil sprinkles as they may bleed colors.
Optional Topping
- 1 tablespoon coarse sugar – Sprinkles a crunchy texture on top.
- Additional sprinkles for garnish – Elevates the visual appeal even further.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper. This will ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread slides out effortlessly after baking, leaving a beautiful loaf ready for your holiday table.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This mixture is essential for providing the loaf with structure and lift. Make sure to mix well until the dry ingredients are evenly combined, allowing the baking powder and soda to distribute properly.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk ½ cup of melted and slightly cooled unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth. Next, add 2 large eggs, mixing in one at a time to ensure they’re well incorporated. Pour in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk, stirring until the mixture is creamy and well-blended, creating a luscious base for your bread.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Mixtures
Gradually add the bowl of dry ingredients to the wet mixture, using a spatula to gently fold them together. Mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix, as this will help keep your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread tender and light. You want to see a few floury streaks remaining in the batter; this is perfect!
Step 5: Add Sprinkles
Gently fold in ½ cup of festive red and green sprinkles, taking care not to overmix. This step adds cheerful color and a touch of joy to your bread, making it perfect for the holidays. Keep the bustling energy of the holiday season in mind, enjoying each moment as you prepare this delightful loaf.
Step 6: Transfer Batter to Pan
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top for even baking. If desired, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar and additional sprinkles on top, which will create a charming crunchy finish as the bread bakes. The festive topping will add both texture and an extra festive touch to your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. As it bakes, enjoy the wonderful scent wafting through your kitchen, signaling that your holiday treat is nearly ready.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. After that, gently transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. The delightful aroma and festive colors will have everyone gathering around in anticipation for a slice of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread loaves are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully without compromising quality. Simply mix all the wet ingredients with the dry, fold in the sprinkles, and store the batter in an airtight container. When you’re ready to bake, give it a gentle stir and pour it into the prepared loaf pan. Bake as directed, and enjoy a freshly-made loaf that’s just as delicious as if you made it the same day! Plus, this method saves you precious time during busy holiday mornings.
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Enjoying a slice of this cheerful bread can inspire delightful meal pairings to create a beautifully festive spread.
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Creamy Butter: A generous spread of creamy butter enhances the moistness of the bread, elevating each bite to pure bliss.
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Sweetened Cream Cheese: Whipped with a touch of honey, this rich spread complements the sweetness of the bread while adding a smooth, tangy richness.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A colorful medley of seasonal fruits provides a fresh contrast to the richness of the bread and adds vibrant color to your table.
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Festive Hot Cocoa: Rich and chocolatey, a cup of homemade hot cocoa pairs wonderfully, warming both hearts and hands during chilly holiday mornings.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer creamy yogurt with granola and festive dried fruits for a delightful breakfast or dessert option that balances sweetness with tang.
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Holiday Spritz Cookies: These lovely, buttery cookies echo the festive spirit of the bread, creating a joyous dessert platter that’s sure to impress.
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Chocolate-Covered Strawberries: The sweet and slightly tart strawberries dipped in chocolate make an elegant dessert that pairs beautifully with the vibrant sprinkles of the bread.
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Sparkling Cider: Toast the season with a fizzy glass of sparkling cider—its fruity notes harmonize beautifully, making any meal feel special.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
• Measure Flour Correctly: Use the spoon-and-level method to avoid dense bread; too much flour can ruin your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread’s texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when combining wet and dry ingredients to keep your bread tender and fluffy; overmixing can lead to a tough loaf.
• Check Oven Temperature: Ovens can vary; use an oven thermometer to ensure proper baking temps, ensuring your bread cooks evenly.
• Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely on a wire rack before slicing to maintain its moist texture and prevent crumbling.
• Experiment with Sprinkles: While jimmies are ideal for colorful fun, try using other decorations like edible glitter for a unique festive look!
Storage Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist and fresh without drying out.
Fridge: For extended freshness, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent it from absorbing fridge odors.
Freezer: Freeze the bread for up to 2 months by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap, then placing it in a freezer-safe bag or container for added protection against freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the bread in the fridge overnight and warm slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or toast them for a lovely warm treat.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to mix things up and make this festive loaf uniquely yours with some delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of vinegar for a creamy alternative.
- Nutty Flavor: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for a delightful crunch. Just be careful not to overmix to keep that soft crumb!
- Spice It Up: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warmly spiced flavor. This will infuse your kitchen with cozy holiday scents.
- Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend in place of all-purpose flour to cater to those avoiding gluten. This makes the bread accessible while keeping it wonderfully tender.
- Fruity Twist: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for extra sweetness and a pop of color. The tangy notes meld beautifully with the bread’s sweetness.
- Mini Loaves: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for easy gifting or sharing; adjust your baking time to around 30 minutes for perfect little treats.
- Tropical Flare: Swap vanilla extract for coconut extract to whisk your taste buds away to an island paradise.
- Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a bright citrus note that pairs beautifully with the festive sprinkles.
With these ideas, your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread can shine in many different ways! If you’re also in the mood for other delightful baked goods, be sure to try my Homemade Bread Sunflower or indulge in some warm Soft Milk Bread that everyone will love!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of sprinkles should I use for this bread?
Absolutely! For the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, I recommend using jimmies-style sprinkles, as they hold their shape and don’t bleed colors. Avoid using nonpareil sprinkles because they can create a muddy appearance in the batter.
How should I store the finished bread?
You can store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it moist. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. It’s best to make sure it’s well-sealed to prevent any absorption of other fridge odors.
Can I freeze the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Yes, you can! To freeze your bread, start by wrapping it securely in plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating or serving.
How do I know if the bread is done baking?
To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. The baking time typically ranges from 45 to 55 minutes, but be sure to keep an eye on it to avoid overbaking for that delightful moisture.
Can I substitute any ingredients for dietary restrictions?
Very! If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, you can replace the buttermilk with plant-based milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. For a vegan option, substitute the eggs with ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce. Plus, a gluten-free flour blend works perfectly in place of all-purpose flour!
What can I do if my bread rises too much and then collapses?
This can happen for a few reasons, but don’t worry! If your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread rises too much, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much baking soda/powder. To avoid this, ensure that you’re gently mixing the ingredients until just combined, and double-check your leavening agents for freshness!
Irresistible Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan by greasing it with butter or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth, then add eggs one at a time, followed by vanilla extract and buttermilk.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and fold gently until just combined.
- Gently fold in red and green sprinkles.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and sprinkle with coarse sugar and additional sprinkles if desired.
- 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 to cool completely.