As the holiday season approaches, I find myself reminiscing about the comforting smells wafting through the kitchen—warm sugar, buttery goodness, and just a hint of vanilla. That’s when I stumbled upon my ultimate answer to cheerful holiday baking: Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. This delightful treat isn’t just about the festive red and green sprinkles; it’s a cozy, moist bread that brings smiles with every slice.
Whether it’s serving as the perfect centerpiece for a holiday brunch or as a heartfelt gift wrapped in cellophane, this quick loaf is easy enough for bakers at any skill level, yet impressive enough to make you feel like a pro. Imagine cutting into this fluffy bread, the vibrant sprinkles catching the light, ready to be shared with family and friends. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a festive ritual destined to become a cherished part of your own holiday traditions. So, let’s dive into the joy of creating this comforting classic!
Why is Festive Christmas Bread a Must-Bake?
Irresistible Sensation: Each bite bursts with flavor, the buttery richness complemented by the pop of colorful sprinkles.
Hassle-Free: This quick bread comes together effortlessly, requiring minimal ingredients and fuss—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
Crowd-Pleaser: Ideal for brunch gatherings or holiday parties, it invites smiles and compliments from every guest.
Versatile Add-Ins: Feel free to get creative with white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for a personalized touch!
Thoughtful Gift: Wrap it up beautifully and share with friends and family as a delightful homemade gift.
This festive bread captures the essence of holiday spirit and is sure to become a beloved family tradition!
Festive Christmas Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups / 210g) – Provides the structure for the bread; can be substituted with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend if needed.
Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent, contributing to the bread’s rise.
Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Works with buttermilk to enhance rise and tenderness.
Salt (½ teaspoon) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Unsalted butter (½ cup / 1 stick, melted) – Adds richness and moisture; vegetable oil can be used as a dairy-free alternative.
Granulated sugar (1 cup / 200g) – Sweetens the bread and contributes to its moisture.
Large eggs (2) – Provides binding and moisture; replace with flax eggs for a vegan option.
Buttermilk (1 cup / 240ml) – Moisturizes and tenderizes the bread; for a substitute, mix regular milk with 1 tbsp lemon juice or vinegar.
Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
Red and green sprinkles (½ cup) – Adds festive color and appeal; use jimmies to prevent bleeding of colors.
Optional Topping
Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon) – Adds a delightful texture and shine to the bread.
Additional sprinkles – Use for a festive garnish on top of the bread.
This Festive Christmas Bread is not just a recipe; it’s a joyful celebration that embodies the spirit of the holidays!
How to Make Festive Christmas Bread
Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prep a 9×5-inch loaf pan by either greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal.Mix Dry Ingredients:
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. This will help ensure even rising in your bread.Combine Wet Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, blend the melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk until combined and creamy.Combine Mixtures:
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and fluffy!Fold in the Sprinkles:
Carefully fold in the festive red and green sprinkles, taking care not to overmix—this keeps the vibrant colors intact for a beautiful presentation.Prepare for Baking:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar or additional sprinkles on top for a delightful finish.Bake to Perfection:
Place the loaf in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Use a toothpick to check doneness; it should come out clean when inserted into the center. Allow to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
Optional: Serve warm with a drizzle of vanilla glaze for extra sweetness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Bread
• Avoid Overmixing: Gently combine wet and dry ingredients to keep the texture light and airy, ensuring your festive Christmas bread doesn’t turn out tough.
• Check Doneness Early: Begin checking your loaf around 45 minutes with a toothpick to avoid overbaking, which can lead to a dry texture.
• Perfect Sprinkles: Use jimmies instead of regular sprinkles to prevent bleeding of colors, ensuring your festive bread looks as delightful as it tastes.
• Cool Properly: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack—this helps maintain its shape and moisture.
• Experiment with Add-Ins: Personalize your festive Christmas bread by adding white chocolate chips or dried cranberries for an extra flavor boost that everyone will love!
Festive Christmas Bread Variations
Come explore delightful ways to customize your holiday baking and make this bread even more special!
- Dairy-Free: Swap unsalted butter for coconut oil or vegetable oil for a tasty dairy-free version that’s just as rich.
- Vegan Option: Replace the eggs with flax eggs (1 tbsp flaxseed meal + 2.5 tbsp water per egg) to keep it plant-based without sacrificing texture.
- Nutty Twist: Stir in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor. They provide a delightful surprise with each bite!
- Fruitiness: Incorporate ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries for a sweet-tart burst that complements the festive theme beautifully.
- Spicy Kick: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients for a warming spice note that perfectly complements the seasonal vibes.
- Chocolate Delight: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent twist—because who can resist chocolate?
- Mini Loaves: Use mini loaf pans for smaller gifts, adjusting the baking time to around 30 minutes for the perfect bite-sized treat!
- Glorious Glaze: Drizzle a vanilla glaze made from powdered sugar and milk over the cooled bread for an extra layer of sweetness and festive flair!
What to Serve with Festive Christmas Bread?
Cozy up this holiday season with warmth and flavors that complement your cheerful loaf.
- Hot Cocoa: A rich, chocolaty beverage that enhances the sweetness of the bread and creates a comforting pairing.
- Cream Cheese Frosting: Spread a creamy layer on each slice for a delightful contrast of flavors, adding an indulgent touch.
- Honey Butter: Sweet and creamy, this butter adds a luscious dimension that pairs perfectly with the festive sprinkles.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy flavors from seasonal fruits balance the sweetness of the bread, creating a vibrant holiday spread.
- Eggnog: This spiced milkshake-like drink brings festive cheer and spice, complementing the warm, cozy vibes of the bread.
- Vanilla Yogurt: A creamy, tangy addition that softens the sweetness of the bread while providing a lovely contrast in texture.
- Chai Latte: The spiced aroma of chai complements the warm flavors of the bread, perfect for holiday gatherings with loved ones.
- Mini Desserts: Serve with bite-sized treats like brownies or cookies for a delightful dessert spread that encourages indulgence.
- Festive Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses and crackers enhances savory flavors that balance the sweetness, making for an exciting pairing.
Storage Tips for Festive Christmas Bread
- Room Temperature: Store cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its freshness and moisture.
- Fridge: For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week, ensuring it stays covered to prevent drying.
- Freezer: Freeze the festive Christmas bread for up to 2 months; wrap in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for best results. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy.
- Reheating: To enjoy it warm, slice the bread and reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-10 minutes.
Make Ahead Options
These Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) and store them in an airtight container up to 3 days in advance. Additionally, you can melt the butter and let it cool before mixing it with sugar; keep it refrigerated until you’re ready to bake. On the day you plan to serve, simply combine the prepared dry ingredients with the wet mix, fold in the festive sprinkles, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy warm, festive bread with minimal effort!
Festive Christmas Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Festive Christmas Bread?
For the best results, I recommend using all-purpose flour, as it provides the right structure. However, if you need a gluten-free option, you can substitute it with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure it’s a blend that includes xanthan gum!
How should I store my Festive Christmas Bread?
Store your cooled Festive Christmas Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, it’s best to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze it for up to 2 months.
Can I freeze Festive Christmas Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and then place it into an airtight freezer bag. This protects it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw overnight in the fridge or leave it out at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my bread turns out dense?
A dense bread can often be a result of overmixing the batter or not enough leavening agents. Make sure to mix the wet and dry ingredients only until combined and check that your baking powder and baking soda are fresh! Also, ensure your oven is preheated before baking.
Can I use alternative milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a simple substitute by combining regular milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will provide the tanginess necessary for a soft and moist bread.
Is this recipe safe for those with allergies?
The basic recipe contains eggs, dairy, and wheat. For those with allergies or dietary restrictions, you can substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) and use a dairy-free butter substitute. Just also make sure to use gluten-free flour if necessary!
Cozy Up with Festive Christmas Bread for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prep a 9x5-inch loaf pan by greasing or lining it.
- In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until combined.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend melted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing thoroughly, then stir in vanilla extract and buttermilk.
- Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined.
- Carefully fold in the festive red and green sprinkles.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Optionally, sprinkle with coarse sugar or additional sprinkles.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45 to 55 minutes. Check doneness with a toothpick; allow to cool in the pan for 10 to 15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.
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