Name: Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread: Your Festive Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 1.75 cups all-purpose flour (Substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for gluten-free options.); 1 teaspoon baking powder (Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy rise.); 0.5 teaspoon baking soda (Works with buttermilk for extra lift.); 0.5 teaspoon salt (Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.); 0.5 cups unsalted butter (Melted and slightly cooled; can swap for coconut oil or margarine.); 1 cup granulated sugar (Sweetens the bread and contributes to tenderness.); 2 large eggs (Binds ingredients and enriches texture.); 1 cup buttermilk (Adds moisture and tang; substitute with milk and lemon juice if needed.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Infuses aromatic flavor; almond extract offers a lovely twist.); 0.5 cups red and green sprinkles (Enhances the festive look; use jimmies to prevent bleeding colors.); 1 tablespoon coarse sugar (Creates a delightful crunchy finish.); additional sprinkles for garnish (Top it off for an extra festive flair.)

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The scent of butter and vanilla wafts through the air, wrapping me in a comforting embrace reminiscent of childhood holidays. As I pull out my mixing bowl, it hits me: it’s time to bake the ultimate festive treat—Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. This delightful recipe promises a moist, buttery loaf adorned with cheerful red and green sprinkles, making it an eye-catching star at any holiday gathering. Not only is it incredibly easy to whip up, but it’s also a wonderful way to share joy with family and friends—whether nestled in gift baskets or served alongside steaming cups of hot cocoa. So, are you ready to add a sprinkle of holiday magic to your kitchen? Let’s dive into this cheerful baking adventure!

Why Is This Bread a Holiday Must-Have?

Delightful Flavor: The blend of buttery richness and hint of vanilla creates a taste that’s simply irresistible.

Vibrant Presentation: Bright red and green sprinkles transform a simple loaf into a festive centerpiece for any gathering.

Easy to Make: This recipe is perfect for bakers of all levels, allowing you to whip it up in no time.

Versatile Treat: Whether enjoyed as a breakfast delight or a sweet snack, it pairs wonderfully with Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks or a cup of tea.

Gift-Worthy: Slice it up for charming gifts or share it with loved ones for an extra special holiday touch.

Bring a festive spirit into your home with this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, and make memorable moments around the table!

Ingredients for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

• A cheerful and festive loaf.

For the Bread

All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups, 210g) – Provides structure; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for gluten-free options.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent for a fluffy rise.
Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Works with buttermilk for extra lift.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances sweetness and balances flavors.
Unsalted butter (½ cup or 1 stick, melted and slightly cooled) – Adds richness; can swap for coconut oil or margarine.
Granulated sugar (1 cup, 200g) – Sweetens the bread and contributes to tenderness.
Large eggs (2) – Binds ingredients and enriches texture.
Buttermilk (1 cup, 240ml) – Adds moisture and tang; substitute with milk and lemon juice if needed.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Infuses aromatic flavor; almond extract offers a lovely twist.
Red and green sprinkles (½ cup) – Enhances the festive look; use jimmies to prevent bleeding colors.

Optional Topping

Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon) – Creates a delightful crunchy finish.
Additional sprinkles for garnish – Top it off for an extra festive flair.

Bring the magic of the holiday season right to your kitchen with this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready to create your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. Lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal. This step ensures your bread has a crisp outer layer and doesn’t stick to the pan, providing a beautiful finish.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly helps evenly distribute the leavening agents. Set this bowl aside as we move on to the wet mixture, preparing the foundation for our moist, festive bread.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a larger bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until smooth and well combined. Add in 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure a rich, cohesive batter. Stir in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk, creating a creamy mixture that adds moisture and flavor to your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.

Step 4: Merge Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, folding them together gently. Mix until just combined, ensuring you don’t overmix—this keeps your bread tender and airy. A few lumps are just fine! This is where we start to see the deliciousness of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread come together.

Step 5: Fold in the Sprinkles
Gently fold in ½ cup of red and green sprinkles into the batter, taking care not to overmix. The vibrant colors will brighten your bread, making it perfect for holiday festivities. Keep an eye on the sprinkles to prevent bleeding; this step is all about achieving that cheerful presentation!

Step 6: Pour and Top
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar on top along with a few additional sprinkles. This will create a delightful crunch on the crust, enhancing the look and texture 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. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the center of the bread; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. A golden-brown crust and a lovely aroma will fill your kitchen, signaling that your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is nearly ready.

Step 8: Cool and Enjoy
Once baked, allow the loaf to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling period ensures the bread sets nicely, making it easier to slice. Your festive treat is now ready to be enjoyed or gifted, spreading holiday cheer to all!

Storage Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Room Temperature: Store your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful moisture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer preservation, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. This helps to keep the bread fresh, but may alter its texture slightly.

Freezer: Wrap the bread in plastic cling film and then foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag to freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.

Reheating: To refresh slices, microwave for about 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly for a warm, buttery experience.

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations

Get creative with your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread and explore delightful twists that add magic to your festive bake!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a safe version that everyone can enjoy. You won’t miss the traditional flour at all!
Add-ins: Blend in white chocolate chips, chopped walnuts, or dried cranberries to boost flavor and texture. These unexpected treasures will have your guests raving about your baking skills!
Flavor Variations: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract to infuse a nutty essence. This simple switch can make your bread feel brand new and elevate its festive appeal.
Mini Loaves: Pour the batter into mini loaf pans and bake for about 30 minutes. These adorable creations make perfect gifts or charming treats for brunch with loved ones.
Sweet Glaze: Drizzle a vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for an extra touch of sweetness. It’s like icing on a cake, perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
Spiced Version: Add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for warm, cozy flavors that echo the spirit of the season. It’s as if you’ve captured holiday cheer in a loaf!
Cream Cheese Swirls: Fold in swirls of softened cream cheese into the batter for delightful bursts of creaminess that complement the sweetness beautifully. This adds a luxurious texture to the bread!

As you dive into the world of variations, remember that experimenting can lead to your next favorite holiday tradition!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combining them just before baking to maintain optimal freshness and fluffiness. If you’d like, you can also pre-measure the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just be sure to refrigerate the buttermilk and eggs until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time to enjoy, simply fold in the sprinkles, pour the batter into the prepared pan, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have a delightful festive loaf with minimal effort, ready to impress your guests!

What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

The holiday season is filled with joy, warmth, and the delightful aroma of baked treats—let’s make each moment even sweeter!

Hot Cocoa: A rich, creamy cup of hot cocoa perfectly complements the festive sweetness of the bread, creating a cozy experience.
Peppermint Tea: This refreshing drink adds a lovely minty touch, balancing the bread’s buttery richness with its soothing warmth.
Cream Cheese Spread: A dollop of tangy cream cheese pairs excellently, enhancing every slice with a wonderful, creamy texture.
Breakfast Casserole: This hearty dish provides a savory contrast to the sweet bread, creating a well-rounded brunch spread that your guests will love.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Vibrant, juicy fruits offer a refreshing bite, adding brightness and a burst of flavor that complements the festive loaf.
Eggnog: A classic holiday drink that brings rich, creamy, and spiced notes, perfectly pairing with the sweet and buttery dessert.
Gingerbread Cookies: These spiced cookies harmonize beautifully, amplifying the holiday spirit and offering a delightful variety of textures.
Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve warm slices of bread with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat that feels like a festive dessert celebration.

Let your holiday festivities flourish with these delicious pairings that are sure to spread warmth and cheer at your gatherings!

Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Check Early: Keep an eye on the bread and check for doneness around the 40-minute mark to avoid overbaking and preserve its moist texture.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool completely before slicing for the best texture; this helps maintain the structure and prevents it from crumbling.
Choose Sprinkles Wisely: Avoid using nonpareils for sprinkles as they tend to bleed color during baking. Opt for jimmies for a vibrant presentation.
Variations: Experiment with add-ins like white chocolate chips or dried fruits for delightful twists on the classic Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread recipe.
Don’t Overmix: When combining wet and dry ingredients, mix gently to keep the bread light and fluffy. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
Browned Butter Boost: For a richer flavor, consider using browned butter instead of melted butter; this adds a delightful depth to your festive bread.

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right buttermilk for this recipe?
Absolutely! When selecting buttermilk, look for a carton that doesn’t have any clumps or separation. If you can’t find buttermilk, you can easily make your own by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly.

What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
For optimal freshness, store your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. Just remember, refrigeration may change its texture slightly.

Can I freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, and how should I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, first let your bread cool completely. Then, wrap it in plastic cling film, followed by aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe bag. This keeps it fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds for that freshly-baked feel.

What should I do if my bread comes out too dense?
If you find your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is dense, it may be due to overmixing the batter. When combining the wet and dry ingredients, mix until just combined; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Also, ensure your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh, as old ones can affect the rise of your bread.

Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
Very! This recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten, so it may not be suitable for those with allergies to these ingredients. For gluten-free options, substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend. You can also swap eggs using flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon mixed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg) or applesauce for a vegan version.

What can I do if I want to make this more festive?
Great idea! For an extra festive touch, consider adding in some white chocolate chips or chopped cranberries to the batter. You can also drizzle a simple vanilla glaze on top once the bread cools, using powdered sugar and a bit of milk. This not only adds sweetness but also enhances the holiday spirit!