Name: Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread: Your Festive Holiday Treat
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (Can switch to a gluten-free blend for a GF version); 2 teaspoons Baking Powder (Helps the bread rise); 1 teaspoon Baking Soda (Works with baking powder to create lift); 1 teaspoon Salt (Balances sweetness); 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (melted) (For deep flavor, try browning the butter); 1 cup Granulated Sugar (Sweetens the bread); 2 Large Eggs (Bind ingredients together); 1 cup Buttermilk (Use milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice if needed); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract; 1/2 cup Red and Green Sprinkles (Opt for jimmies to avoid color bleed); 1 tablespoon Coarse Sugar (Adds a sweet crunch); 1/4 cup Additional Sprinkles (For more color and fun on top)

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“Holiday cheer in a loaf,” I thought, as the vibrant colors of red and green sprinkles danced in my mixing bowl. As I prepared to bake this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, I could already envision the smiles it would bring to my friends and family during our festive gatherings. With its delightful moistness and buttery texture, this bread isn’t just a treat; it’s a quick and easy way to add some sparkle to your holiday celebrations. Whether you’re gifting a neighbor or cozying up with a cup of hot cocoa, this recipe is bound to become a cherished part of your holiday baking tradition. Curious about how to make this festive loaf yourself? Let’s dive into the delightful world of baking!

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Why Is This Bread a Holiday Must-Make?

Festive Colors: The vibrant red and green sprinkles instantly elevate the visual appeal, making it a centerpiece at any holiday gathering.

Moist and Buttery: Each slice offers a tender crumb, reminiscent of a light cake, that will leave your guests asking for seconds.

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy holiday schedules, this bread comes together in under an hour, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without the stress.

Versatile Treat: Whether served warm with butter or as a base for a delicious glaze, it’s adaptable to your personal taste.

Great for Gifting: Bake a loaf for neighbors or friends to spread the holiday cheer, because who doesn’t love a home-baked gift?

Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa for a cozy treat, or take a look at my Cheesy Garlic Breadsticks for a delightful snack!

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients

• Here’s what you need to bake this festive delight.

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure, acting as the base of the bread; can switch to a gluten-free blend for a GF version.
Baking Powder – Helps the bread rise, ensuring a fluffy texture.
Baking Soda – Works with baking powder to create that perfect lift.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Unsalted Butter (melted) – Adds moisture and richness; for deep flavor, try browning the butter.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread, contributing to its tender crumb.
Large Eggs – Bind ingredients together and add moisture.
Buttermilk – Imparts a slight tang and ensures tenderness; use milk + 1 tbsp lemon juice if needed.
Vanilla Extract – Adds a warm flavor that complements the sweetness.
Red and Green Sprinkles – Bring a cheerful, festive flair to the bread; opt for jimmies to avoid color bleed.

Optional Topping

Coarse Sugar – Sprinkling this on top adds a sweet crunch, making each slice extra special.
Additional Sprinkles – For those who want a little more color and fun on top!

Dive into the delightful baking process and watch your holiday spirit come alive with this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it lightly or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later. This crucial first step sets the stage for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, ensuring a perfect bake!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This step not only ensures even distribution of ingredients but also leavens your bread beautifully. Set aside your bowl of dry ingredients—it’s now time to focus on the wet components.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar, whisking them together until smooth and creamy. Next, add the large eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk until fully incorporated. This creates a luscious, rich base for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.

Step 4: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to your wet ingredients, gently stirring with a spatula or wooden spoon. Mix just until combined—small lumps are okay! Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so be mindful. This is the moment your batter starts to transform into a festive, delicious treat.

Step 5: Fold in Sprinkles
Carefully fold in the vibrant red and green sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout the batter. Take your time with this step; you want to maintain the bright colors without making them bleed. Your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is now festive and ready for the oven!

Step 6: Pour and Bake
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, gently smoothing the top with the back of a spatula. If desired, sprinkle the top with coarse sugar or a few additional sprinkles for a festive touch. Place it in your preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the bread onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step allows the flavors to meld and gives you that perfectly moist texture for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread!

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Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Choose the Right Sprinkles: Opt for jimmies instead of nonpareils. Nonpareils tend to bleed colors, which can dull the festive appearance of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix your batter just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf. Embrace those small lumps for a fluffy texture!
Do the Toothpick Test: Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your bread is done—no one wants undercooked batter!
Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy and helps maintain its delightful texture.
Storage Tips: Keep your cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or refrigerate for up to a week. Enjoy slices warm or toasted for a cozy holiday treat!

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking; just be sure to cover it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can mix the dry ingredients and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days, making it easy to throw everything together when you’re ready. When you’re set to bake, pour the chilled batter into the prepared pan and adjust your baking time as needed, ensuring you achieve that delightful, festive loaf just as delicious as if made fresh!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Room Temperature: Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil to maintain its moisture.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in foil and place it in a zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before enjoying.

Reheating: To warm slices, pop them in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds. Enjoy your festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread with loved ones!

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this delightful bread to suit your tastes!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free blend for a celiac-friendly version that still delivers on flavor.
Fruit-Filled: Add ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped apples to introduce a sweet, fruity twist. Your guests will love the surprise bites of flavor!
Nutty Delight: Mix in ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and a warm, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness.
Spicy Kick: Incorporate ½ teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to give your bread a cozy holiday spiciness. It’ll instantly remind you of warm family gatherings.
Frosted Finish: Top your cooled bread with a vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk for an extra touch of sweetness that elevates every slice.
Mini Loaves: Bake in mini loaf pans for smaller, shareable treats. These are perfect for gifting and add a delightful presentation to your holiday spread.
Chocolate Chip: Add ½ cup of white or dark chocolate chips for a luscious twist that will satisfy any chocolate-lover’s cravings.

For more delicious ideas, consider pairing this bread with a warm cup of cocoa or even alongside my Honey Butter Cornbread for a delightful contrast of flavors!

What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Warm slices of moist bread bring a touch of joy to any festive gathering, pairing perfectly with delightful accompaniments!

Hot Cocoa: The rich, creamy texture of hot cocoa balances the sweetness of the bread, making for a cozy pairing on chilly nights.
Spiced Apple Cider: The aromatic spices highlight the warm, buttery notes of the bread, creating a comforting holiday drink duo.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer the bread with yogurt and fresh berries for a delightful brunch option, adding a refreshing zing to your meal.
Peppermint Tea: The cool, minty flavor of peppermint tea enhances the festive feel, making every bite of bread even more enjoyable.
Holiday Cookies: Serve alongside your favorite festive cookies for a delightful dessert spread, providing an array of textures and flavors.
Fruit Salad: A bright, zesty fruit salad adds freshness and color, offering a delightful contrast to the rich, buttery bread. It’s perfect for balancing indulgence!

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Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs

What type of flour should I use for this bread?
I recommend using all-purpose flour as it provides the best structure for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend works well as a substitute.

How should I store the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to keep it fresh?
To keep your lovely bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like to keep it longer, refrigerate it for up to a week wrapped in plastic wrap or foil – that way, it retains its moisture!

Can I freeze this bread? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, wrap it tightly in foil and place it in a zip-top bag. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply defrost it overnight in the refrigerator, and it will be ready for a toasty morning treat.

What if my bread turns out dense?
Ah, sometimes baking can be tricky! If your bread is dense, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter. Remember, mix just until combined and embrace a few lumps. Additionally, ensure your leavening agents (baking powder and baking soda) are fresh – they play a crucial role in helping the bread rise.

Can I make this bread without eggs?
Yes, you can! For an egg alternative, you can use a flaxseed meal mixture (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Allow it to sit for a few minutes until it becomes gelatinous. This will help bind your ingredients together while keeping that festive spirit alive!

Are there any dietary restrictions to consider?
This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is vegetarian-friendly. However, if you or your friends have allergies, note that this recipe does contain gluten (unless you use a gluten-free flour) and dairy from the buttermilk and butter. For a dairy-free version, opt for a plant-based butter and a dairy-free milk substitute mixed with vinegar as an alternative to buttermilk!