As the holidays approach, the scent of freshly baked bread fills my home, igniting a sense of warmth and nostalgia. There’s just something about the golden crust and the cozy aroma that welcomes all who enter. One delightful recipe that I find myself returning to year after year is this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. It beautifully combines the richness of buttery, fluffy bread with a burst of festive color from cheerful red and green sprinkles, making it a perfect treat for holiday gatherings or a thoughtful gift for neighbors.
What I love most about this easy quick bread is its incredible versatility. You can enjoy it plain, add in chocolate chips or cranberries, or top it with a sprinkle of coarse sugar for that extra crunch. Regardless of how you choose to customize it, each slice promises a moist texture and delightful flavor, bringing smiles to cozy winter mornings. Let’s dive into the recipe and bring a touch of festive cheer to your kitchen!
Why will you adore Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Delightful: This festive bread is packed with color and flavor, making it a standout centerpiece for any holiday gathering.
Moist and Fluffy: Each slice boasts a rich, buttery crumb that melts in your mouth, perfect for cozy breakfasts or brunch.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite add-ins like chocolate chips or walnuts to create unique flavor combinations that suit everyone’s taste.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is beginner-friendly, ensuring success every time.
Gifting Friendly: Whether wrapped with care or baked into mini loaves, it’s an ideal homemade gift for friends and family that will surely delight.
Nostalgic: The comforting aroma of fresh-baked bread will evoke warm memories, making your holiday celebrations even more special!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
This bread is a joy to make and devour!
For the Batter
• All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups, 210g) – Provides structure to the bread; feel free to use a gluten-free blend if needed.
• Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent for that perfect rise.
• Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Helps the bread achieve lift when combined with buttermilk.
• Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor and beautifully balances the sweetness.
• Unsalted butter (½ cup, 1 stick, melted) – Adds richness; swap with coconut oil for a dairy-free option.
• Granulated sugar (1 cup, 200g) – Sweetens the bread; you can reduce the sugar for less sweetness.
• Large eggs (2) – Bind and enrich the batter; replace with flax eggs for a vegan twist.
• Buttermilk (1 cup, 240ml) – Adds tanginess and moisture; substitute with milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar in a pinch.
• Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Imparts depth of flavor; almond extract offers a delightful nutty alternative.
• Red and green sprinkles (½ cup) – Adds festive color and sweetness; use jimmies to prevent bleeding during baking.
Optional Topping
• Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon) – Sprinkle on top for added crunch and visual appeal; more sprinkles can be used as well.
How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
-
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9×5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
-
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl. This dry mixture will create the perfect base for your bread.
-
Mix the melted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until it’s smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk until fully combined.
-
Combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually. Mix until just combined—this will ensure your bread remains light and fluffy without overmixing.
-
Fold in the festive red and green sprinkles gently. Be careful not to overwork the batter; the sprinkles will add delightful bursts of color!
-
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar or a few extra sprinkles on top for an extra festive touch.
-
Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a snowy finish before serving.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately. Keep the wet ingredients refrigerated and the dry ones stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the two mixtures, fold in the sprinkles, and pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake as directed, and enjoy this moist, buttery bread that’s just as delicious, making your holiday baking stress-free and delightful!
Christmas Sprinkle Variations
Get ready to personalize this joyful bread and make it your own!
-
Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a deliciously inclusive treat. Your gluten-sensitive friends will appreciate the thought!
-
Vegan: Replace the eggs with flax eggs and the buttermilk with almond milk and lemon juice. The festive flavors will shine through in every bite.
-
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch and added richness—perfect for those who love a little extra texture!
-
Fruity Flavor: Toss in ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped apples for a burst of natural sweetness and a pop of color. This twist brings a holiday vibe that’s hard to resist!
-
Chocolate Boost: Mix in ½ cup of white or dark chocolate chips for a decadent treat. The chocolate melting into the bread adds an irresistible sweetness that pairs beautifully with the festive sprinkles.
-
Citrus Burst: Add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus note, enhancing the sweetness and making it vibrant.
-
Spiced Up: Incorporate 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg into the dry ingredients for a warm, inviting spice that perfectly complements the festive spirit of the season.
-
Mini Loaves: Divide the batter into mini loaf pans for charming, giftable treats. Adjust baking time to about 30 minutes for perfectly-sized holiday goodies!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
-
Perfecting Texture: To achieve a moist and fluffy bread, avoid overmixing the batter. Stir until just combined, and your bread will turn out light and airy!
-
Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark with a toothpick. This will help prevent overbaking, ensuring a tender crumb.
-
Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature eggs and buttermilk can help the batter come together more smoothly, creating a cohesive blend for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
-
Flavor Boost: For a deeper, more complex flavor, consider browning the butter before adding it to the mixture. This adds a warm, nutty richness to the bread that enhances the sweetness from the sugar.
-
Avoid Color Bleeding: When adding sprinkles, opt for jimmies instead of nonpareils. Jimmies hold their color better during baking, keeping your festive bread vibrant and beautiful!
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 moist texture and flavor.
-
Fridge: For longer storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate it for up to a week. This helps keep it fresh and prevents drying out.
-
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil for extra protection. It can be frozen for up to 2 months—thaw before serving for the best taste.
-
Reheating: If you desire a warm slice, gently reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, allowing it to regain its delightful moistness.
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Looking to craft a complete holiday meal that radiates warmth and cheer?
- Hot Cocoa: A steaming cup of hot cocoa perfectly complements the sweetness of the bread, making every bite even more delightful.
- Cream Cheese Spread: This creamy topping enhances the butteriness of the bread, adding a rich layer of flavor that’s irresistibly good.
- Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of citrus slices adds refreshing brightness, balancing out the sweetness of the bread beautifully.
- Yogurt Parfaits: Layering yogurt and berries creates a smooth and creamy contrast, making for a deliciously satisfying brunch option.
- Spiced Tea: Warm, spiced tea brings cozy vibes to the table, harmonizing wonderfully with the festive flavors of the bread.
- Miniature Loaves: Consider gifting mini loaves of this festive bread along with homemade jams for a charming and thoughtful present.
- Whipped Butter: Serve with a side of whipped butter to spread on warm slices, enhancing the overall indulgence of your bread.
- Holiday Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses, especially creamy brie or aged cheddar, pairs nicely, creating an inviting spread for guests.
Each of these suggestions enhances the joyful spirit of the season, ensuring your table is filled with comfort and delight!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
All-purpose flour is best for this recipe as it provides the right structure. However, for a gluten-free alternative, feel free to use a gluten-free flour blend, making sure it has a binding agent like xanthan gum for similar results.
How should I store my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, tightly wrap it in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you need to keep it longer, freezing is an excellent option.
Can I freeze the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer-safe bag or aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to restore its lovely texture.
What can I do if my bread is too dry after baking?
If you find your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread turns out dryer than expected, it’s likely that it was overbaked or mixed too much. Be sure to check for doneness with a toothpick around the 40-minute mark and practice gentle mixing. To revive dry slices, try toasting them lightly or spread them with a bit of butter or cream cheese for added moisture.
Are there any common allergies I should be aware of for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe contains gluten (from flour), dairy (from butter and buttermilk), and eggs. For substitutions, you can use a gluten-free flour blend, replace butter with coconut oil, and use flax eggs as a vegan option. Always check for any additional allergen information based on the specific ingredients you use.
What if I want to add something to the bread?
The more the merrier! Feel free to mix in add-ins like white chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts. Just remember to adjust the baking time slightly if you add extra ingredients, as they might change how quickly the bread cooks. Aim to keep it fluffy and moist!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe to Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x5-inch loaf pan by greasing it or lining it with parchment paper for easy removal later.
- Whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium bowl.
- Mix the melted butter and granulated sugar in a large bowl until smooth and creamy. Add in the eggs one at a time, blending well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract and buttermilk.
- Combine the dry ingredients into the wet mixture gradually until just combined.
- Fold in the festive red and green sprinkles gently.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top. If desired, sprinkle coarse sugar or a few extra sprinkles on top.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack.