“Can you pass the holiday bread?” The smile that spreads across the room is infectious as the aroma of freshly baked Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread wafts through the air. This cheerful loaf, adorned with vibrant red and green sprinkles, is not just a feast for the eyes but also incredibly moist and buttery, making it a delightful treat during any festive gathering. Perfect for beginners and seasoned bakers alike, this recipe brings joy as it unites family and friends around the table, turning ordinary moments into memorable celebrations. With quick prep time and simple ingredients, it’s the ideal choice for those seeking to swap fast food for something homemade and heartwarming. Are you ready to sprinkle some magic into your holiday season?
Why is This Bread a Holiday Must-Have?
Joyful baking experience: This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is simple enough for anyone to create, even novice bakers.
Festive colors: The vibrant red and green sprinkles add a playful touch that brightens your holiday table.
Versatile delight: Enjoy it at breakfast, as a snack, or even as a gift for friends and family.
Moist and flavorful: The buttermilk and butter work together to create a tender, rich texture that everyone loves.
Quick prep time: With just a short mix and bake, you can have this delightful bread ready to impress in no time! For a twist, consider adding a drizzle of vanilla glaze or pairing it with hot cocoa for a truly festive treat.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- All-purpose flour (1¾ cups/210g) – Provides structure; can substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent for a good rise; always use fresh for the best results.
- Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Reacts with buttermilk for additional leavening when creating this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
- Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness for a well-rounded taste.
- Unsalted butter, melted (½ cup/1 stick) – Adds moisture and richness; for a vegan option, substitute with neutral oil.
- Granulated sugar (1 cup/200g) – Sweetens the bread; brown sugar can be an alternative for added moisture.
- Large eggs (2) – Provides moisture and richness; use flax eggs (1 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tbsp water) for a vegan option.
- Buttermilk (1 cup/240ml) – Adds tang and moisture; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar if needed.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances flavor; consider almond extract for a delightful twist.
- Red and green sprinkles (½ cup, jimmies style) – For decoration and festive appeal; avoid nonpareils to prevent color bleeding.
Optional Topping
- Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon) – Adds a lovely textured topping; can use sanding sugar or omit for simplicity.
- Additional sprinkles – For garnish and extra festive flair.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9×5 inch loaf pan, greasing it with butter or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Make sure to prepare this ahead so the pan is ready for the batter, ensuring a smooth baking process.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until they are well blended. This step is essential for ensuring even distribution of the leavening agents throughout the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. Set this mixture aside as you move on to the wet ingredients, which will bring the loaf to life.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter with granulated sugar, whisking them together until smooth. Next, add the two eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk, creating a rich and creamy mixture that will impart moisture and flavor to your festive bread.
Step 4: Combine Dry and Wet Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Take care not to overmix, as this could lead to a dense loaf instead of the light, fluffy texture that characterizes a perfect Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. The batter should be slightly lumpy, which is a good sign of optimal mixing.
Step 5: Fold in Sprinkles
Gently fold in the vibrant red and green sprinkles, taking care to minimize stirring to prevent the colors from bleeding into the batter. The sprinkles will brighten your bread, making it visually appealing and festive. Incorporating them carefully ensures they are evenly distributed without losing their cheerful hue.
Step 6: Pour and Smooth Batter
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. If desired, you can sprinkle a tablespoon of coarse sugar over the top for added texture and sweetness. Optionally, add a few more sprinkles for a delightful touch that enhances the overall festive appearance of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect, moist texture that everyone will love during the holiday season.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to a cooling rack to cool completely. This cooling process is key to preserving the bread’s moist and tender crumb, making it perfect for slicing and sharing with loved ones.
Storage Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Room Temperature: Store leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.
- Fridge: For longer freshness, tightly wrap the bread and refrigerate for up to 1 week. This helps preserve flavor while extending shelf life.
- Freezer: Wrap slices of the bread in foil and place inside a zip-top bag to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy!
- Reheating: To warm it up, slice the bread and pop it in the toaster or briefly in the microwave for a few seconds to bring back its delightful softness.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread are perfect for busy holiday season meal prep! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then refrigerating them. To ensure the sprinkles maintain their vibrant colors, add them just before baking. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply combine the food and pour it into your prepared loaf pan, then bake as directed. This method saves precious time and allows you to present a fresh, festive loaf that’s just as delicious as if made from scratch that day! Remember, for the best quality, store any unused batter tightly covered in the fridge until you’re ready to bake.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful bread to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this festive bread suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
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Vegan Delight: Substitute eggs with flax eggs and replace butter with a neutral oil for a vegan twist that everyone can enjoy.
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Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a satisfying crunch. Nuts introduce a warm, nutty flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly.
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Chocolate Chip Surprise: Enhance the sweetness by adding white or dark chocolate chips for a rich contrast to the buttery bread. Imagine the gooeyness mingling with festive sprinkles!
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Dried Fruit Addition: Incorporate dried cranberries or cherries for a burst of tartness that brightens each slice. This adds a lovely, chewy texture alongside the soft crumb.
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Almond Extract: Swap out vanilla extract for almond extract to elevate the bread’s flavor profile, providing a touch of nutty warmth that beautifully complements the sweetness.
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Mini Loaves: For charming gifts, bake in mini loaf pans, adjusting the baking time to around 30 minutes. Perfectly portioned and adorable!
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Glaze Drizzle: Create a sweet vanilla glaze and drizzle it over the top after baking for an extra layer of sweetness that everyone will love. It not only enhances the flavor but makes the bread even more visually appealing.
This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread isn’t just a recipe; it’s a canvas for your creativity! Feel free to explore these variations, and for more delicious ideas, check out my amazing Banana Bread Cinnamon or Moist Chocolate Bread recipes. Bring warmth and joy to your festive table!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh baking powder and baking soda to ensure proper leavening. Stale ingredients can lead to a dense loaf of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
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Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to keep the bread tender. Overmixing can toughen your loaf; lumpy batter is perfectly fine!
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Sprinkle Carefully: When folding in sprinkles, be gentle! This prevents the colors from bleeding and retains their festive appearance in your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
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Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test the center of the loaf; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs. A toothpick that’s too wet indicates that it needs more baking time.
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Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool on a rack to ensure the texture remains moist and tender, making it easier to slice and share.
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Indulge in the festive delight of flavors and textures that beautifully complement this cheerful loaf, creating a memorable holiday spread.
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Creamy Butter Spread: A dollop of soft butter melts deliciously into the warm bread, enhancing every bite with rich, creamy goodness.
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Honey Butter: Whipped honey butter adds a sweet twist, harmonizing perfectly with the sweetness of the bread and making each slice irresistible.
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Hot Cocoa: This warm, chocolatey treat pairs effortlessly with the festive bread, creating a cozy, comforting experience that warms the heart.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant medley of fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and kiwi adds a refreshing element, balancing the richness of the bread beautifully.
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Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a delightful contrast and a wholesome breakfast option that makes the bread shine.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For a decadent twist, spread cream cheese frosting on slices for a delightful dessert that feels special during holiday gatherings.
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Holiday Cocktails: Sparkling cranberry or pomegranate cocktails bring a festive flair, enhancing the celebration while mirroring the colorful sprinkles in the bread.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Sweet and spiced, these cookies make a perfect dessert pairing, elevating your holiday table with a classic touch.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for this recipe?
For the best results in making Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, I recommend using all-purpose flour, as it provides the ideal structure. If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free blend, which should function just as well!
How should I store leftover 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 prefer it to last a bit longer, tightly wrap it and refrigerate for up to 1 week. This preserves its delicious flavor and moisture!
Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap slices of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread tightly in foil and then place them inside a zip-top bag. This way, you can store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge.
What do I do if my bread comes out too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter, which makes the loaf tough. Next time, try mixing the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—lumpy batter is perfectly fine! Also, ensure that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh to achieve the best rise.
Can I make any dietary substitutions?
Of course! For a vegan version of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs—simply mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Additionally, use a neutral oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option.
How long can I keep this bread in the freezer?
You can enjoy your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for up to 2 months in the freezer when wrapped properly. Just remember to check that it’s well sealed to prevent freezer burn and keep the flavor intact!
Delightful Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Your Festive Feast
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining with parchment paper.
- 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 the melted butter with granulated sugar, whisk until smooth, then add the eggs one at a time, incorporating fully before adding the next. Stir in vanilla extract and buttermilk.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the red and green sprinkles gently to prevent bleeding.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smooth top, and optionally sprinkle coarse sugar and additional sprinkles.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
- Allow to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a cooling rack to cool completely.
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