The first chill of December brings a special kind of magic to the kitchen. As twinkling lights adorn the home and holiday songs fill the air, I can’t help but pull out my whisk to create something that perfectly captures the spirit of the season. Enter Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread—a delightful delight that not only tastes amazing but doubles as a cheerful centerpiece for holiday gatherings.
This soft, buttery loaf is infused with a hint of vanilla and comes alive with the vibrant crunch of colorful sprinkles, making it a hit whether served at brunch or gifted to neighbors. The moment you lift it from the oven, the enticing aroma will wrap around you like a warm hug. Crafted with simple ingredients, this recipe invites the whole family to join in, from little hands mixing the batter to choosing their favorite toppings. Get ready to make memories—and delicious bread—this holiday season!
Why is Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread irresistible?
Festive Charm: Each slice is studded with vibrant sprinkles, turning a regular loaf into a delightful centerpiece for any holiday spread.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice bakers and seasoned chefs.
Joyful Family Experience: Kids love getting involved—mixing, pouring, and sprinkling are all part of the fun.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm, slathered with cream cheese, or simply dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet treat!
Perfect Holiday Gift: Share the love by wrapping a loaf for neighbors or friends; it’s sure to spread holiday cheer!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
• Bake the joy this holiday season!
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For the Bread
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All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; substitute with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for gluten-free versions.
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Baking Powder – Leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rise.
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Baking Soda – Adds lift and helps brown the bread.
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Salt – Enhances flavor; essential for balancing sweetness.
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Unsalted Butter – Contributes to moisture and richness; can use melted coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
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Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread and aids texture; brown sugar can add a hint of molasses flavor.
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Eggs – Binds ingredients for structure; use flax eggs for a vegan option.
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Buttermilk – Adds moisture and tang; substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice.
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Vanilla Extract – Provides warmth and sweetness; almond extract can be used for a different flavor profile.
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Red and Green Sprinkles – Adds festive color; avoid nonpareils as they bleed.
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Optional Topping
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Coarse Sugar – Adds a delightful crunch; sprinkle on top before baking for extra texture.
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Additional Sprinkles – Use more for aesthetic appeal; choose jimmies to prevent color bleeding.
How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9×5 inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy release.
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Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined to ensure a fluffy texture.
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Mix the melted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, and then stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
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Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually, being careful not to overmix; stop as soon as everything is just combined for a light crumb.
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Incorporate the festive red and green sprinkles gently into the batter, ensuring they’re evenly distributed without overstirring.
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Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top, and optionally sprinkle coarse sugar or additional sprinkles for an attractive finish.
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Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Serve warm with cream cheese or a sprinkling of powdered sugar for a special touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
The Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—just mix everything except the sprinkles and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. Alternatively, you can prepare the entire loaf and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze it for up to two months. Just remember to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly. To serve, simply reheat slices in the microwave or enjoy them at room temperature for delicious, hassle-free festive treats any time of the day!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Ready to get creative with your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread? Let your imagination run wild with these delightful twists!
- Dairy-Free: Replace unsalted butter with melted coconut oil and use almond or soy milk in place of buttermilk for a delicious dairy-free version.
- Nutty Goodness: Fold in 1 cup of finely chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that complements the sweetness beautifully.
- Fruit Fusion: Add half a cup of dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a fruity burst that pairs wonderfully with the bread’s buttery flavor.
- Chocolate Indulgence: Mix in 1 cup of mini chocolate chips or white chocolate chunks for a sweet chocolatey surprise throughout the loaf.
- Citrus Zing: Brighten your bread with the zest of one orange or lemon to give it a fresh, zesty flavor that’s perfect for the festive season.
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in a teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to elevate the flavor profile and create a deliciously warm holiday aroma.
- Glazed Delight: Drizzle a simple vanilla glaze over the cooled loaf for an extra touch of sweetness that makes each slice even more special.
- Muffin Magic: Transform your batter into festive muffins! Adjust the baking time to 20-25 minutes for mini loaves of joy.
Bring joy to your kitchen and your table—these variations allow your creativity to shine while preserving the festive spirit of the season!
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Indulge in a festive meal that brings warm memories and cheerful flavors to your holiday gatherings.
- Hot Cocoa: A rich, chocolaty drink that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the bread, creating a cozy moment by the fire.
- Fruit Salad: Fresh, vibrant fruits add a refreshing contrast, cutting through the sweetness and providing a delightful crunch.
- Cream Cheese Spread: A creamy, tangy complement that enhances the bread’s sweetness while adding a velvety texture to each bite.
- Honey Butter: The sweet and creamy combo brings a touch of luxury, elevating each slice into a special treat for breakfast or brunch.
- Spiced Cider: Warm spiced apple cider is the perfect drink to sip alongside this festive bread, enveloping you in holiday spirit.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of light and airy whipped cream can transform each slice into a charming dessert, especially with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
- English Breakfast Tea: The robust flavors of a classic tea add a sophisticated touch, balancing the sweetness of the bread perfectly on chilly mornings.
- Ice Cream: Warm the bread slightly and serve it with a scoop of vanilla or festive peppermint ice cream for a delightful dessert twist.
- Christmas Cookies: For the ultimate holiday spread, pair this bread with an assortment of festive cookies to satisfy all your sweet cravings!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf instead of the light, fluffy texture you desire.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Double-check the freshness of your baking powder and baking soda; stale leaveners can prevent the bread from rising properly.
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Colorful Sprinkles: Choose jimmies over nonpareils to avoid bleeding colors into your batter. This keeps your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread looking vibrant and festive.
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Test for Doneness: Start checking your bread after 40 minutes in the oven. A toothpick inserted should come out clean—overbaking can dry it out!
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Personal Touch: Don’t hesitate to customize! Add nuts or chocolate chips to your batter, but make sure to adjust baking time for any extra ingredients.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Room Temperature: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days for the best freshness and flavor.
Fridge: If you want it to last longer, refrigerate the bread in a sealed container for up to 1 week; this will help maintain its moist texture.
Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing; it can last up to 2 months.
Reheating: To enjoy slices straight from the freezer, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that freshly-baked taste!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Absolutely! For the freshest taste, pick eggs that are either farm-fresh or well within their expiration date. Your butter should be unsalted and at room temperature for easy mixing. As for the buttermilk, make sure it’s within its use-by date—this will add a pleasant tang to your bread. Opt for red and green jimmies sprinkles, as they are less likely to bleed into the batter compared to nonpareils.
How should I store leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Very good question! To keep your bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you find that you have too much to enjoy within that timeframe, transferring it to the fridge can extend its life to about 1 week. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before serving for the best flavor.
Can I freeze my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Freezing is a great way to preserve your festive bread for future enjoyment. First, let the loaf cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, and then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes for that warm, fresh-out-of-the-oven experience!
What should I do if my bread turns out too dense?
If your bread ends up being denser than expected, it’s likely due to overmixing the batter after adding the dry ingredients. Remember, the goal is to mix until just combined! Also, check the expiration dates on your baking powder and baking soda; stale leavening agents can greatly affect the rise. When in doubt, do a gentle fold instead of a vigorous stir for the perfect texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, you can make it vegan by substituting the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water for each egg) and using dairy-free butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter. Additionally, always consider checking for common allergens like nuts or gluten, especially if you decide to add optional elements like nuts or chocolate chips.
Delicious Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Joyful Mornings
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy release.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl until well combined.
- Mix the melted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Stir in the buttermilk and vanilla extract.
- Fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually, being careful not to overmix.
- Incorporate the red and green sprinkles gently without overstirring.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and optionally sprinkle coarse sugar or additional sprinkles on top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.