The moment I pulled my first loaf from the oven, I was met with a sweet windfall of festive nostalgia that took me straight to my childhood holidays. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread captures that spirit perfectly, tantalizing with colorful sprinkles and the warmth of buttermilk. Not only is it a quick bread that comes together in a flash, but it’s also crowd-pleasing and freezer-friendly, allowing you to stock up for spontaneous holiday gatherings or cozy nights in. There’s a joyous rhythm to slicing into its soft, cake-like crumb, paired with warm cocoa while sharing laughter with loved ones. Are you ready to spread a little cheer in your kitchen? Let’s bake!
Why is This Bread So Festive?
Sweet, Colorful Treat: Each slice of this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread bursts with festive cheer, thanks to vibrant sprinkles that make your holiday gatherings even more special.
Quick and Easy: This delightful bread comes together in no time—perfect for those last-minute holiday preparations.
Crowd-Pleasing: The tender, cake-like texture ensures everyone will love it. Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa for the ultimate cozy experience!
Customizable Options: With gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan substitutions available, everyone can enjoy a slice! Check out easy variations to suit all your guests’ needs.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Feel free to bake extra batches and freeze them. You’ll always have a festive treat ready for unexpected visitors or spontaneous celebrations!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- All-Purpose Flour – Creates a sturdy base for the quick bread; substitute with gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking Powder – Essential for the bread to rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Baking Soda – Balances the acidity of the buttermilk, helping achieve that perfect lift.
- Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; don’t skip this ingredient for maximum taste!
- Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds moisture and richness; use coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread; reduce by up to ¼ cup if you prefer a less sweet loaf.
- Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients together and aids in rising; replace with flax eggs for a vegan alternative.
- Buttermilk – Provides moisture and a hint of tang; substitute with milk and 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice for a similar effect.
- Vanilla Extract – Enhances the flavor profile; opt for pure extract to elevate the taste.
- Red and Green Sprinkles – Bring festive flair to the bread; jimmies are recommended for minimal bleeding.
Optional Topping
- Coarse Sugar – Adds a delightful crunchy texture on top; feel free to add more for extra sweetness.
- Additional Sprinkles – For an extra festive touch and beautiful presentation.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, take a moment to grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to ensure the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread releases easily after baking. A well-greased pan is crucial for achieving that perfect slice.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. This step ensures the leavening agents are evenly distributed. Once combined, set the bowl aside, inviting holiday cheer into your kitchen as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and ¾ cup of granulated sugar, stirring until creamy. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Afterward, blend in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk, creating a smooth, rich batter that embodies the spirit of celebration.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Gradually add the dry ingredients from your earlier bowl into the wet mixture. Gently stir with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined; avoid overmixing to ensure a tender crumb in your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. A few lumps are perfectly fine, as they add to the homemade charm of your treat.
Step 5: Fold in Sprinkles
Carefully fold in ½ cup of red and green sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Take care not to overmix, as this could lead to the colors bleeding. Imagine the festive swirl of colors in your loaf, ready to brighten up any holiday gathering!
Step 6: Transfer and Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. If you desire a crunchy topping, sprinkle coarse sugar over the batter. Slide the pan into your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The delightful aroma will fill your home!
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes. After that, gently turn it out onto a wire rack to cool completely. This final step ensures the perfect texture and makes it easier to slice. Your festive bread is now ready to share!
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Imagine a cozy gathering filled with laughter and warmth, all anchored by delightful flavors that enhance your festive bread.
- Creamy Butter: A spread of rich, creamy butter perfectly complements the moistness of the bread, adding a luxurious, savory note.
- Hot Cocoa: Cozy up with a warm cup of cocoa; its chocolatey sweetness beautifully enhances the sweetness of the bread, making it a perfect pairing.
- Fresh Fruit: Seasonal fruits like oranges or apples provide a juicy contrast, balancing the dense texture of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
- Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit to create a refreshing contrast, adding creaminess and crunch that pairs well with the bread.
- Honey Butter: Sweet, whipped honey butter elevates every slice, making bites even more indulgent and festive.
- Mild Cheeses: Soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese bring a rich creaminess that contrasts with the sweetness, creating an interesting flavor profile.
- Holiday Cookies: Offer a selection of holiday cookies beside the bread for a delightful dessert spread, creating a festive dessert table.
- Sparkling Cider: A glass of sparkling cider adds a festive fizz, refreshing your palate between bites and enhancing the holiday spirit.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair warm slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an incredible contrast; the melting ice cream adds a dreamy creaminess to each bite!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
• Check Early: Start checking for doneness around 40 minutes to prevent overbaking. Your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread should be golden brown and a toothpick should come out clean.
• Gentle Mixing: When folding in sprinkles, mix gently to avoid overmixing. This keeps the colors vibrant instead of bleeding into the batter.
• Fresh Ingredients: Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh for the best rise. Expired leavening agents can lead to dense bread.
• Browned Butter Bonus: Consider using browned butter for deeper flavor. This small change can elevate your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to new heights of deliciousness!
• Let it Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan initially. This prevents crumbly slices and helps maintain a perfect texture for serving.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to sprinkle in your own creativity and adjust this festive bread to suit your dietary needs and flavor preferences!
-
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just make sure it includes xanthan gum for the best texture.
-
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil and a buttermilk alternative like almond milk mixed with vinegar. This keeps it rich and creamy without dairy.
-
Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg). It’s an easy and effective swap!
-
Less Sweet: Reduce the granulated sugar by ¼ cup for a more subtle sweetness. Ideal for those who prefer a lighter flavor profile.
-
Add Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warm, aromatic touch. The cozy spices will truly enhance the festive feel.
-
Zesty Twist: Mix in the zest of one orange or lemon to brighten the flavors. The citrusy notes make for a refreshing surprise!
-
Nutty Delight: Fold in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor. Perfect for those who love texture in their quick bread.
-
Swirl it Up: For a delightful twist, consider incorporating a ribbon of cream cheese filling or chocolate spread. It makes each slice irresistibly decadent!
And remember, when you serve this delightful bread, it pairs wonderfully with honey butter or alongside a warm cup of cocoa, just like the ones you’d find in my Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread recipe. Happy baking!
Storage Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Room Temperature: For optimal freshness, store the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week to maintain its moist texture.
Freezer: To freeze, slice the bread and place it in a freezer-safe bag. It can last for up to 2 months, allowing for easy thawing and sharing!
Reheating: To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm slices in a toaster or microwave for a cozy, festive treat any day!
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread loaves are the ultimate solution for busy holiday cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by combining the dry and wet ingredients separately and refrigerating them. Just be sure to keep the sprinkles aside until you’re ready to bake, as this will prevent them from bleeding. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the ingredients, fold in the sprinkles, and pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake as directed, and you’ll have a delightful, festive bread to enjoy, just as fresh as if it were made that day!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for the best results?
Absolutely! For the best results, all-purpose flour is recommended as it creates a sturdy base for the quick bread. If you need a gluten-free option, I suggest using a high-quality gluten-free flour blend for a similar texture.
How should I store any leftovers?
To keep your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week.
Can I freeze this bread? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread! I recommend slicing it first for convenience. Place the slices in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm slices in a toaster or microwave.
How do I troubleshoot if my bread didn’t rise properly?
Very! If your bread didn’t rise as expected, make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as expired leavening agents can lead to dense bread. Also, you might want to check that you mixed the wet and dry ingredients just until combined; overmixing can affect the rise.
Can I make this bread vegan or dairy-free?
Absolutely! For a vegan version, you can swap regular eggs for flax eggs—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg. Additionally, use coconut oil in place of butter and the buttermilk alternative as outlined in the ingredients.
Are there any allergy considerations I should be aware of?
Very! Since this recipe contains eggs and dairy (unless substituted as mentioned), it’s important to inform guests about these ingredients, especially those with allergies. For a nut allergy-safe option, ensure your baking supplies and any butter alternatives don’t contain nuts.
Delightful Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe to Share
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 flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine melted butter and sugar, stirring until creamy. Add eggs one at a time, then vanilla and buttermilk.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Fold in the sprinkles carefully, ensuring they are evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared pan and sprinkle with coarse sugar if desired. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Leave a Reply