Name: Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups all-purpose flour (Provides structure; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (A vital leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.); 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (Reacts with buttermilk to help the bread rise beautifully.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Enhances all the flavors; omitting can dull the taste.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (Adds richness and moisture; consider coconut oil for a dairy-free option.); 1 cups granulated sugar (Sweetness is key; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.); 2 large eggs (Binds the ingredients together; use ½ cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan alternative.); 1 cups buttermilk (Provides moisture and a tender crumb; milk with lemon juice can be substituted.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Boosts flavor; almond extract can be a lovely variation.); 0.5 cups red and green sprinkles (Adds a festive touch; avoid nonpareils to prevent color bleeding.); 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (Creates a delightful crunch on top.); additional sprinkles (Brightens the visual appeal and holiday spirit.)

As the scent of warm spices and fresh bread envelops my kitchen, I can’t help but feel the magic of the holidays coming alive. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a delightful, moist loaf that brings joy to every gathering. With its rich buttery flavor and festive red and green sprinkles, it’s not just a treat; it’s a celebration on a plate! What makes this recipe shine are its effortless prep and kid-friendly nature—perfect for those busy mornings or last-minute gifts. Imagine the smiles as you slice into this cheerful loaf, each piece a sweet reminder of coziness and togetherness. Will you join me in crafting this holiday favorite?

Why Is This Bread a Must-Make?

Festive and Colorful: This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a feast for the eyes, adding a pop of color to your holiday table.

Effortless Preparation: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this delightful loaf without breaking a sweat, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings.

Kid-Friendly Fun: Involve the little ones in folding in the sprinkles, creating memories while baking together.

Versatile Versioning: Want to change it up? Add white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a twist on this classic recipe.

Perfectly Moist Texture: The combination of buttermilk and melted butter gives this bread its irresistible moistness, ensuring every slice is delicious.

Gifting Joy: Wrap it up as a sweet homemade gift to brighten someone’s holiday season. Pair it with a cozy drink, like hot cocoa, for a thoughtful touch!

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients

For the Batter
1 ¾ cups all-purpose flour (210g) – Provides structure; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
1 teaspoon baking powder – A vital leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
½ teaspoon baking soda – Reacts with buttermilk to help the bread rise beautifully.
½ teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors; omitting can dull the taste.
½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, melted – Adds richness and moisture; consider coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
1 cup granulated sugar (200g) – Sweetness is key; brown sugar can deepen the flavor.
2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients together; use ½ cup unsweetened applesauce for a vegan alternative.
1 cup buttermilk (240ml) – Provides moisture and a tender crumb; milk with lemon juice can be substituted.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Boosts flavor; almond extract can be a lovely variation.
½ cup red and green sprinkles – Adds a festive touch; avoid nonpareils to prevent color bleeding.
Optional Topping
1 tablespoon coarse sugar – Creates a delightful crunch on top.
Additional sprinkles for garnish – Brightens the visual appeal and holiday spirit.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper or greasing it with butter. This ensures your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread will easily release after baking, providing a beautifully shaped loaf.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well blended. Aim for a uniform mixture to ensure an even rise in your bread. Set this aside as you move on to the wet ingredients, which will bring your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to life.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk the melted butter and granulated sugar together until smooth and creamy. Next, add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk until the mixture is light and well combined. This rich blend will infuse your bread with moistness and flavor.

Step 4: Incorporate Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this will keep your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread tender. The batter should reflect a slightly lumpy texture, which indicates it’s ready for the festive additions.

Step 5: Fold in Sprinkles
Now it’s time to add the fun! Gently fold in the red and green sprinkles using a spatula, mixing just enough to evenly distribute them throughout the batter. Avoid overmixing to keep the colors bright and not bleed into the batter, ensuring your bread looks festive and cheerful.

Step 6: Pour and Smooth the Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula for an even surface. If you wish, sprinkle coarse sugar or additional sprinkles on top for a bit of extra crunch and visual appeal. This finishing touch brings out the holiday spirit in your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Place your loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45–55 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. As it bakes, a delightful aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling the holiday cheer.

Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes on a wire rack. This helps solidify its structure. Carefully remove the bread from the pan and let it cool completely on the rack before slicing. Your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is now ready to be enjoyed fresh or shared with loved ones!

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 its freshness and flavor.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. This helps retain moisture while preventing spoilage.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze the bread wrapped in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy leftover slices, pop them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or lightly toast them for a few minutes to regain their delightful softness.

What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Imagine gathering around the table, savoring the delightful sweetness of this festive loaf alongside carefully selected accompaniments.

Creamy Hot Cocoa: A rich cup of hot cocoa enhances the festive spirit, making each bite of bread even more comforting. The perfect partner for chilly mornings!
Honey Butter: Spread this sweet blend over warm slices, adding a luscious creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the light, fluffy texture of the bread.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits complement the sweetness of the bread while introducing a refreshing balance and a burst of vitamins to your holiday meal.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Warm, spiced apples provide a wonderful contrast to the sugar sprinkles, offering a cozy, homestyle feel to your breakfast or brunch table.
Cream Cheese Frosting: For a decadent twist, drizzle or spread this sweet cream cheese delight on each slice, elevating the festive flavor to new heights.
Festive Yogurt Parfait: Layer this bread with yogurt and berries in a glass for a cheerful, nutritious breakfast that looks as good as it tastes.
Chai Tea or Fruit-Infused Iced Tea: Serve with chai for a warming drink or iced tea for a refreshing pairing; both enhance the sweet notes of the bread.
Mini Muffin Assortment: Pair with a selection of mini muffins for an inviting and colorful brunch spread, providing texture and diverse flavors to enjoy together.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle this earthy, sweet glaze over the bread for an extra treat that complements the festive flavors perfectly.
Homemade Eggnog: Serve this classic holiday drink chilled to bring a creamy, spiced touch that pairs delightfully with the lightness of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations

Feel free to put your unique spin on this festive favorite and delight in every bite!

Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with a non-dairy milk mixed with lemon juice and use coconut oil instead of butter.
Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, ensuring everyone can enjoy this treat.
Nutty Flavor: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunch that complements the sweet softness of the bread.
Chocolate Lover’s Twist: Add ½ cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a sweet surprise in every slice.
Spicy Warmth: Incorporate 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or ginger for a touch of warmth that dances on your palate.
Mini Versions: Bake the batter in mini loaf pans for adorable gift-sized portions, reducing the baking time to about 30 minutes.
Fruitful Addition: Mix in ¾ cup of dried cranberries or chopped apricots for a chewy texture and a pop of fruity flavor.
Glazed Delight: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and vanilla extract over the cooled loaf for a sweet finishing touch.

With so many variations, why not experiment with different combinations? You could even whip up a few loaves and share them with friends alongside a cozy drink or pair with creamy yogurt for a festive breakfast! If you’re curious about more easy and scrumptious recipes, don’t miss out on the Homemade Bread Sunflower or Savory Chicken Bread. Happy baking!

Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine the ingredients to keep your bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a tough loaf, diminishing its holiday spirit.
Test for Doneness: Always check with a toothpick around the 45-minute mark. It should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, ensuring you’re left with a perfect Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Sprinkle Selection: Use jimmies-style sprinkles only, as nonpareils can bleed into the batter. Keeping your colors vibrant is key for that festive look!
Cool Completely: Let the bread cool fully on a wire rack before slicing. This step ensures that the texture remains moist and crumbly, making each slice a delightful treat.
Flavor Variations: Want to elevate your loaf further? Try adding white chocolate chips or dried cranberries. These add-ins bring extra flavors and textures, making your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread even more memorable!

Make Ahead Options

This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to bring festive cheer to your table with ease! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can mix the dry ingredients and store them separately for up to 3 days, keeping them in a cool, dry place. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet ingredients, add the dry mix, and fold in the sprinkles. This way, you save precious time and can enjoy delicious, festive bread with minimal effort, ensuring it remains just as delightful for your holiday celebrations!

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of sprinkles should I use?
I recommend using jimmies-style sprinkles for this bread. Nonpareil sprinkles may bleed their colors into the batter, potentially making it look less festive. Aim for bright, cheerful colors by carefully choosing your sprinkles to enhance the holiday spirit!

How should I store leftover bread?
To keep your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 1 week. This prevents it from drying out while maintaining that delightful moisture.

Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. You can freeze it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw the bread overnight in the fridge before serving. This method helps preserve the texture and flavor.

What if my bread comes out dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. To avoid this, mix the ingredients until just combined—lumps are okay! Additionally, let the bread cool completely in the pan before slicing to ensure a tender crumb. Checking the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda is also vital for a proper rise.

Can I make this bread vegan?
Yes, you can easily adapt the recipe to be vegan! Simply replace the eggs with ½ cup of unsweetened applesauce and use coconut oil instead of butter. For the buttermilk substitute, mix milk of your choice with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and let it sit for a few minutes. These swaps will keep your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread deliciously moist and festive!

How can I enhance the flavor of the bread?
You can elevate the flavor by incorporating add-ins like white chocolate chips, chopped nuts, or dried cranberries for extra texture and taste. Additionally, consider adding ½ teaspoon of almond extract for a nutty twist. These variations can make this festive loaf even more delightful!