As the holiday season approaches, the warm, inviting aromas of freshly baked bread fill the air, transporting me to memories of bustling kitchen gatherings. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is more than just a festive treat; it’s a deliciously tender quick bread that’s as vibrant as the holiday spirit itself. With a sweet glaze drenching its colorful sprinkles, this delightful loaf is not only a wonderful centerpiece for your breakfast or brunch table but also an easy, crowd-pleasing option for holiday gatherings. Plus, it makes for a cheerful gift that’s sure to bring smiles to family and friends. Curious about how to make this joyful concoction? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why is this bread a holiday favorite?
Bright, Festive Appearance: With its colorful sprinkles, this bread captures the essence of holiday cheer, making it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
Deliciously Moist Texture: Thanks to buttermilk, each slice melts in your mouth, ensuring everyone will keep coming back for more.
Quick and Easy: This quick bread comes together in a snap, allowing you more time to enjoy the company of loved ones.
Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in festive packaging, it’s an adorable gift that will spread joy and deliciousness this season.
Versatile Flavor Options: Feel free to swap almond extract with vanilla or other flavors to tailor it to your taste, just like my Hawaiian Banana Bread for a tropical twist!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
• Discover the key components for baking this festive delight!
For the Bread
All-purpose flour – Provides structure and texture; no substitutes recommended for best results.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and aids in browning; substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Baking powder – Leavening agent that helps the bread rise; ensure it’s fresh for optimal results.
Baking soda – Works with the acid in buttermilk to enhance rise; use sodium bicarbonate in an emergency.
Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; can be replaced with table salt, but reduce quantity.
Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar (1 cup milk + 1 tbsp acid).
Egg – Binds ingredients and adds richness; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option.
Unsalted butter – Adds moisture and flavor; substitute with vegetable oil or margarine, adjusting for dairy allergy.
Almond extract – Provides a distinct flavor; replace with vanilla extract for a milder taste.
Sprinkles (jimmies) – Adds color and fun; only use jimmies to prevent color bleeding during baking.
For the Glaze
Powdered sugar – Forms the base of the glaze; no substitute for consistency.
Corn syrup – Adds shine and helps create the right glaze consistency; honey can substitute but may alter flavor.
Nonpareils – Decorative topping; use sparingly as they can bleed color.
This joyful mix of ingredients helps create the delightful Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, perfect for any holiday gathering!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Position the oven rack in the upper third to ensure even baking. While the oven heats up, line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing the edges to hang over the sides for easy removal later.
Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. This blend of dry ingredients lays the foundation for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, so ensure everything is evenly mixed and free of lumps.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine 1 large egg, 1 cup of buttermilk, ½ cup of melted unsalted butter, and 1 teaspoon of almond extract. Whisk these ingredients together until fully blended; the mixture should be smooth and creamy, creating a lovely balance of moisture and flavor before joining the dry ingredients.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients, gently stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay! This step is crucial in keeping your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread tender and fluffy. Once combined, fold in ½ cup of festive jimmies, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the batter.
Step 5: Transfer to Loaf Pan
Spoon the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even surface. Give the pan a gentle shake to eliminate air bubbles, ensuring a nice rise while baking. Place the pan in your preheated oven and set a timer for 45-50 minutes.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Bake the bread until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, typically around 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes; the top will turn a golden brown and smell wonderfully fragrant, signaling that your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is nearly ready!
Step 7: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes. After that, carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely, which may take an additional 1-2 hours. This step allows the flavors to meld and creates the perfect texture!
Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
In a mixing bowl, whisk together 1 cup of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of buttermilk, and 1 tablespoon of corn syrup until smooth and thick yet pourable. If needed, adjust the consistency by adding a little more buttermilk. This glaze will be a delightful finishing touch for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Step 9: Glaze the Bread
Once the bread is completely cooled, spoon the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides for a festive look. While the glaze is still wet, sprinkle with nonpareils to enhance the visual appeal of your holiday masterpiece, making it even more inviting!
Storage Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If needed, you can keep it in the refrigerator for up to a week, wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container to prevent drying out.
Freezer: For longer preservation, freeze the bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap and foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before enjoying.
Reheating: To revive slices, reheat in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or warm in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F for a fresh-baked experience.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it up to 24 hours in advance, which allows the flavors to deepen and creates a moist texture. Simply follow the first five steps of the recipe, then cover the bowl tightly to prevent drying or absorbing odors in the fridge. When you’re ready to bake, transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and bake as instructed. For storing the baked bread, it can be sealed and kept at room temperature for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure it cools completely before wrapping to maintain its delightful texture!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Use Jimmies Only: To prevent the color from bleeding during baking, stick to using jimmies for sprinkles in the batter.
Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully before glazing. This ensures the glaze sets well, creating a beautiful finish.
Check Doneness Early: Start checking the bread at 45 minutes to avoid drying it out. It’s done when a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to swap almond extract for vanilla or other extracts to tailor the flavor of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to your liking.
Storage Tips: To keep the bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or in the refrigerator for a week.
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
This festive loaf pairs beautifully with a variety of delightful accompaniments, creating an inviting holiday spread that warms the heart.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: They offer luxurious creaminess that balances the sweet glaze of the bread, perfect for comfort and holiday cheer.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, fragrant beverage enhances the cozy vibe, making every bite of bread feel like a hug.
- Maple Bacon: The salty crunch of crispy bacon pairs surprisingly well, creating a savory-sweet contrast that delights the palate.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A mix of vibrant seasonal fruits adds refreshing brightness, balancing the sweetness and enriching the flavors of the meal.
Enjoying this bread with a warm cup of coffee or hot cocoa under the twinkling lights can turn any breakfast into a memorable holiday experience.
- Peppermint Hot Chocolate: This festive drink complements the bread’s sweet notes while adding a fun twist, perfect for gatherings.
- Buttercream Frosted Cookies: These sugary delights mirror the sweetness of the bread, creating a dessert duo that is both cheerful and indulgent.
- Holiday Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses introduces a savory element, enhancing the overall flavor experience with delightful contrasts.
- Mini Cinnamon Rolls: These warm bites of spice echo the comforting essence of the season, perfect for a delightful brunch spread.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread and make it your own with these delightful twists!
Flavor Swap: Replace almond extract with vanilla or other flavored extracts for a unique taste.
Dairy-Free Twist: Substitute buttermilk with 1 cup of almond milk mixed with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a dairy-free version, keeping that tasty tang.
Festive Sprinkle Mix: Use themed sprinkles, like red and green for Christmas, or pastel colors for a spring celebration, to brighten up your bread’s appearance.
Nutty Delight: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the softness of the bread beautifully.
Fruity Flavor: Stir in ½ cup of dried cranberries or cherries to introduce a fruity zing; they add both flavor and a festive touch.
Spicy Heat: For those who enjoy a hint of warmth, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients to enhance the overall flavor profile.
Savory Option: Swap out the sprinkles for a blend of herbs like rosemary and thyme for a fragrant, savory loaf that’s perfect for holiday dinners.
Glaze Alternative: Experiment with different glazes using orange juice or almond milk to create a fruity twist that complements the festive bread – your guests will love it!
Embrace these variations to transform your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread into something special every time you bake! Whether you’re trying a classic like my Buttermilk Pancakes for breakfast or introducing a festive element to your meal, the options are endless!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best buttermilk for my bread?
Absolutely! When choosing buttermilk, look for a carton that’s fresh with a date well ahead. It should have a smooth texture and a tangy smell. Avoid any containers with bloating or off-odors, as this may indicate spoilage.
What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you need it to last longer, wrap it well in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to a week.
Can I freeze this bread for later use?
Absolutely! For freezing, allow the bread to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. To enjoy later, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge before serving or warm it up in the oven at 350°F for a few minutes.
What should I do if my bread turns out dry?
Very! If your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is dry, there are a couple of things to consider. Firstly, ensure you’re measuring your flour accurately—too much can lead to a dense texture. Secondly, check that you’re not overbaking it; using a toothpick to check doneness can help. If it happens, a fun fix is to serve it with butter or jam to add moisture!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! For allergies, be cautious about substituting ingredients like the egg; a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water) is a great vegan alternative! Also, keep sprinkles in check if there are any artificial colors or allergens.
Can I use different types of sprinkles?
You certainly can, but I recommend sticking with jimmies for baking as they maintain their color. If you wish to get creative with nonpareils or other sprinkles, just remember they may bleed color during baking, so use them sparingly or save them for decoration!
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to Brighten Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, combine egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and almond extract; whisk until smooth.
- Pour wet mixture into dry ingredients, stirring until just combined; fold in jimmies.
- Transfer batter to the loaf pan, smoothing the top; bake for 45-50 minutes.
- Allow to cool for 5 minutes in the pan before transferring to a wire rack.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together powdered sugar, buttermilk, and corn syrup until smooth.
- Once cooled, glaze the bread and sprinkle with nonpareils.