As the holiday season approaches, the air fills with an intoxicating mix of nostalgia and cheer, bringing to mind the invigorating scent of freshly baked goods. I can picture Christmas mornings, the kitchen bustling with family, where laughter and the promise of sweet treats waft through the air like a warm hug. That’s exactly why I’m excited to share my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread—a delightful creation that combines the moist richness of buttermilk with a splash of festive color from cheerful red and green sprinkles.
This isn’t just any holiday bread; it’s a versatile, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for gifting, brunching, or simply savoring with a cup of hot cocoa after a long day. With its easy prep and fun, kid-friendly appeal, you’ll find that making this sweet bread is a joyful assignment the whole family can partake in. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s embark on a baking adventure that promises to fill your home with the spirit of the season!
Why love this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Versatile Flavor: This bread shines as a standalone treat or a festive addition to any brunch.
Kid-Friendly Fun: Kids will love helping decorate with colorful sprinkles, making it a delightful family activity.
Moist Texture: Its buttery, velvety crumb ensures every slice melts in your mouth, capturing the essence of holiday baking.
Quick Preparation: With straightforward steps, you can whip up this beauty in no time, leaving you free to enjoy precious moments with loved ones.
Gift-Worthy: Wrap up slices for neighbors or family—it’s the perfect homemade gift to spread joy this season!
Embrace the holiday spirit with this delightful recipe and enjoy a sweet moment with your loved ones!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure and texture for the bread; gluten-free flour works as a substitute.
- Baking Powder – Helps the bread rise and creates a fluffy texture.
- Baking Soda – Enhances leavening when paired with buttermilk.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances its rich flavor.
- Unsalted Butter – Adds moisture and richness; can be replaced with vegetable oil for a dairy-free option.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread; consider honey or maple syrup for a delightful alternative.
- Eggs – Provide moisture and stability to maintain the bread structure.
- Buttermilk – Adds a tangy flavor and moisture; substitute with milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar.
- Vanilla Extract – Imparts flavor; almond extract offers a lovely twist.
- Red and Green Sprinkles – For festive decoration; ensure to use jimmies to avoid bleeding; omit for a plain bread.
Optional Topping
- Coarse Sugar – Adds a delightful crunch on the crust; feel free to use extra sprinkles as garnish if desired.
Celebrate the season with this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread that brings warmth and laughter back into your home!
How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Preheat Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.
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Mix Dry Ingredients: In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This combo creates a fluffy texture that lets the bread rise beautifully.
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Blend Wet Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar, mixing until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, before stirring in the vanilla extract and buttermilk until combined.
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Combine Mixtures: Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined, being careful not to overmix—this is key to keeping the bread tender!
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Fold in Sprinkles: Gently fold in the festive red and green sprinkles, ensuring they are well-distributed without overmixing; we want those colors to stay vibrant!
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Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. If you’d like, sprinkle the coarse sugar or a few extra sprinkles on top for an extra festive touch.
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Bake and Cool: Bake in the preheated oven for 45–55 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs. Cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes before moving to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze on top for a sweet, finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moist texture.
Fridge: If you want to prolong freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave slices briefly to regain that warm, comforting quality of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Don’t Overmix: To keep your bread tender, gently mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture.
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Use Jimmies Only: When adding sprinkles, choose jimmies instead of nonpareils to prevent color bleed into the batter. Vibrant sprinkles make your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread festive!
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure your eggs and buttermilk are at room temperature for even mixing and better rise. This helps achieve that irresistibly moist texture.
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Check for Doneness: A toothpick should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs; be cautious not to open the oven door too early, which can affect rising.
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Flavor Boost: For added richness, consider browning the butter before mixing; it imparts a deeper, nutty flavor to the bread.
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Cooling Time Matters: Allow your bread to cool in the pan for a bit before moving it to a wire rack. This prevents it from breaking apart and ensures tidy slices!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to reimagine this delightful bread with your own twists and turns that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute regular flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a scrumptious gluten-free version everyone can enjoy.
- Flavorful Extracts: Swap vanilla extract for almond or coconut extract to add a new layer of flavor that dances on the palate. Consider experimenting with different extracts for unique tastes.
- Festive Fruits: Toss in a cup of dried cranberries or chopped cherries to infuse a burst of fruity sweetness, elevating each slice to extra holiday cheer.
- Nuts and Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for delightful texture and nutty flavor; their crunch complements the softness of the bread beautifully.
- Chocolate Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise, creating a delicious contrast to the tangy buttermilk.
- Citrus Zest: Grate some lemon or orange zest into the batter for a refreshing zing that brightens the overall flavor profile of your bread.
- Mini Loaves: For adorable giftable portions, use mini loaf pans and adjust baking time to around 30 minutes, perfect for sharing!
- Cream Cheese Swirl: Create a ribbon of sweetened cream cheese in the middle by swirling it into the batter before baking, resulting in creamy bites in every slice.
Let your creativity shine and enjoy the festive spirit while baking with loved ones!
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
This delightful holiday bread beckons for a cozy gathering, pairing perfectly with warming drinks and sweet accompaniments.
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Hot Cocoa: A rich, chocolatey drink that complements the sweetness of the bread, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere.
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Cream Cheese Frosting: Smooth and velvety, this tangy spread contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the bread, enhancing every bite.
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Peppermint Tea: The soothing mint flavors offer a refreshing counterpoint, making it a delightful pairing for holiday brunch.
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Yogurt with Fresh Fruit: The creaminess of yogurt and the brightness of berries balance the richness of the bread while adding a refreshing touch.
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Honey Butter: This sweet, buttery spread melts into the warm bread, creating an indulgent topping that elevates each slice.
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Fresh Citrus Salad: A zesty mix of oranges and grapefruits adds a burst of freshness, balancing the sweetness of the bread wonderfully.
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Eggnog: For a festive drink, eggnog pairs perfectly, bringing creamy spices that enhance the holiday spirit.
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Vanilla Glaze: Drizzling a sweet glaze over the warm bread provides an extra layer of sweetness, making it an irresistible treat!
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Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai resonate beautifully with the buttery bread, creating a comforting, aromatic experience.
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Gingerbread Cookies: A nostalgic festive option, these cookies offer a delightful contrast with their bold spices and crunchy texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container—this keeps the flavors fresh and vibrant. To maintain the quality, mix the dry ingredients and wet ingredients separately, then combine them just before baking. You can also bake the bread ahead of time and store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate it for up to 1 week. When ready to serve, simply slice and enjoy the same delightful taste as when it was freshly baked!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for this bread?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the best texture and structure in your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. If you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute with a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring it has xanthan gum for the right consistency.
How should I store the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
To store your bread, keep it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to prolong its freshness further, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to 1 week. This way, you can enjoy it for several days without compromising its delightful moisture!
Can I freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap slices individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. This method allows the bread to last up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy a slice, simply thaw it at room temperature, or pop it in the microwave for a few seconds to regain that warm, cozy texture.
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What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
If your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread doesn’t rise, it might be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Always check the expiration date before using them. Additionally, make sure to mix your batter gently to avoid overmixing, which can lead to dense bread. And always preheat your oven properly!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian! If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, you can substitute the buttermilk with a mixture of regular milk and a tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. For those with gluten sensitivities, you can use a gluten-free flour mix to make it suitable for everyone. Always check for any allergies related to the ingredients you choose to include, particularly sprinkles or other add-ins!
How long can I keep the leftover bread?
Leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or up to a week in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to life by heating it slightly before serving to enjoy its wonderful buttery flavor!
These FAQs ensure you’ll have all the essential information at your fingertips for a delightful baking experience!
Delicious Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Cheerful Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan by greasing or lining it with parchment paper.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large bowl, combine melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each. Stir in vanilla extract and buttermilk until combined.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined.
- Fold in the festive red and green sprinkles gently.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar or extra sprinkles on top.
- 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.
