As I unwrapped my favorite holiday sprinkles, a little rush of nostalgia swept over me—a vivid reminder of festive kitchens filled with laughter and the sweet aroma of baking. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread captures that very spirit, transforming ordinary brunches into cheerful celebrations with its buttery texture and delightful sweetness. Not only is it a quick bread that can easily fit into your busy holiday schedule, but it’s also freezer-friendly, allowing you to prepare ahead for those bustling get-togethers. Imagine sharing slices of this colorful treat with loved ones, paired alongside steaming mugs of cocoa. Doesn’t that sound like the perfect way to create lasting holiday memories? Let’s dive into this joyous recipe together!
Why is this bread a holiday must-try?
Festive Colors: The Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is adorned with vibrant red and green sprinkles, making it the highlight of any holiday gathering. Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip it up in no time. Versatile Variants: Options for gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan adaptations ensure everyone at your table can enjoy this sweet treat. Make-Ahead Friendly: Freeze it for up to two months, allowing you to savor delightful slices at a moment’s notice. Pair it with a warm drink like hot cocoa, and you’ve got the ultimate cozy experience!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
For the Bread
- All-purpose flour – Creates structure for the bread; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
- Baking powder – Helps the bread rise; ensure it’s fresh for the best results.
- Baking soda – Acts as a leavening agent, balancing the acidity from buttermilk.
- Salt – Enhances flavor; don’t omit for the best taste.
- Unsalted butter – Adds flavor and moisture; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated sugar – Sweetens the bread; can reduce by up to ¼ cup for a less sweet loaf.
- Large eggs – Binds ingredients and helps with rising; can use flax eggs as a vegan substitute.
- Buttermilk – Provides moisture and a slight tang; substitute with milk and 1 tablespoon vinegar or lemon juice if unavailable.
- Vanilla extract – Adds depth of flavor; use pure extract for the best taste.
- Red and green sprinkles – Decorative element that adds a festive appearance; use jimmies to avoid bleeding colors.
- Coarse sugar (optional) – Creates a crunchy topping; increase sweetness if desired.
- Additional sprinkles (optional) – Enhances the festive look; not necessary for flavor but great for presentation.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. This step is essential to ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread releases easily after baking, resulting in a perfect loaf that maintains its lovely shape.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt until thoroughly combined. This mixture will create the structure for your bread, and incorporating these dry ingredients ensures even leavening. Set this bowl aside as you move on to the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, blend 1/2 cup of melted unsalted butter with 3/4 cup of granulated sugar, stirring until the mixture is smooth. Next, add 2 large eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk until everything is well melded, creating a rich and flavorful base for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Gradually incorporate the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly acceptable and will contribute to the bread’s delightful texture. This is where the magic of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread begins to take shape.
Step 5: Fold in the Sprinkles
Carefully fold in 1/2 cup of red and green sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed without overmixing. This step adds that festive touch and vibrant color to the bread, making it visually appealing for your holiday gatherings. Remember, a gentle hand ensures your sprinkles remain intact and bright.
Step 6: Pour and Top
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake. If desired, sprinkle a tablespoon of coarse sugar over the top for an extra sweet and crunchy crust. This step adds a charming finish to your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, ensuring it looks as good as it tastes.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. Keep an eye on your bread, checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark. The bread is ready when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean, and the top is golden brown.
Step 8: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Afterward, transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting period enhances the flavors, making each slice of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread wonderfully moist and delicious, just perfect for sharing with family and friends.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread preparations make holiday baking a breeze for busy home cooks! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in an airtight container to preserve their freshness. Additionally, you can prepare the wet mixture of butter, sugar, eggs, buttermilk, and vanilla up to 3 days ahead in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the prepped ingredients and gently fold in the sprinkles before pouring the batter into the loaf pan. This method ensures your bread remains just as delicious while saving you valuable time on hectic baking days!
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Nothing says holiday cheer quite like a meal featuring this festive bread, and there are plenty of delightful accompaniments to make it a full celebration.
Creamy Butter: Spread a generous layer of creamy butter on warm slices for a rich and indulgent touch that enhances the bread’s sweetness.
Hot Cocoa: This pairing is a classic! The warmth and sweetness of hot cocoa beautifully balance the buttery, festive flavors of the bread. Perfect for a cozy afternoon treat.
Fruit and Yogurt Parfait: Serve alongside fresh berries and Greek yogurt to introduce a tart and refreshing element, balancing the sweetness of the bread.
Honey Butter: For a sweet twist, top with honey butter; it adds a delightful creamy sweetness that dances on your palate and feels like a hug in every bite.
Mild Cheeses: A platter of mild cheeses, such as brie or gouda can create a sweet and savory contrast, making for a beautifully balanced breakfast or brunch spread.
Maple Glaze: Drizzle a light maple glaze over the bread to amplify the holiday flavors and add an extra touch of sweetness that will surely delight every guest.
Spiced Hot Cider: Pair with a warm glass of spiced apple cider for a cozy drink that’s perfect for holiday snacking and gatherings.
Chocolate Chip Cookies: Offering a side of chocolate chip cookies can add a classic touch, inviting everyone to indulge in a delightful table of sweets.
Fruit Salad: A bright, colorful fruit salad can freshen up the meal and introduce vibrant flavors, complementing the sweetness of the bread with a healthy touch.
Whether you choose something sweet or savory, these pairings will elevate your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread experience to something truly memorable!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Room Temperature: Store cooled bread in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain its delightful moisture and flavor.
- Fridge: For longer freshness, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 1 week. This keeps your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread tasting fresh and delicious.
- Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped in plastic and placed in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving for optimal taste.
- Reheating: To reheat, slice and warm in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or toast lightly to bring back its lovely texture.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to customize your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread with these delightful twists that cater to everyone’s preferences!
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour for a gluten-free flour blend, ensuring a fluffy texture without sacrificing flavor. You won’t believe how well it bakes up just like the traditional version!
Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil instead of butter for a dairy-free option. This twist adds a subtle hint of coconut flavor while keeping the bread moist and delicious.
Vegan: Replace large eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons water equals one egg). This substitution keeps the bread vegan while ensuring it rises beautifully.
Reduced Sugar: For a less sweet loaf, reduce the sugar by up to ¼ cup. This allows the other flavors—especially the buttermilk and vanilla—to shine through, making it perfect for those who prefer a lighter treat.
Zesty Lemon: Add the zest of one lemon to the batter for a refreshing citrus twist. The bright flavor complements the sweetness beautifully, making it a unique holiday treat.
Nutty Texture: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, into the batter for added crunch and flavor. The nuts bring a wonderful texture contrast that enriches each delightful bite.
Spice It Up: Mix in 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm aroma that evokes the cozy vibes of the season. This subtle spice twist elevates the festive flavors in the bread.
Burst of Berries: Fold in ½ cup of dried cranberries or blueberries for a fruity touch. This addition not only enhances the flavor but also adds beautiful color peeking through the sprinkles.
And if you’re looking for more delicious options, check out my recipes for Healthy Banana Bread or the delightful Lemon Buttermilk Pound and Lemon Blueberry Bread that share the same cozy winter vibes!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh. Expired leavening agents can cause your bread to fail to rise properly.
Gentle Mixing: Mix the batter gently after adding the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture; it’s okay to have a few lumps.
Sprinkle Care: Fold in the sprinkles delicately to keep their vibrant color intact. Overmixing can result in a funcolor bleed throughout the batter.
Baking Time Awareness: Check your bread around the 40-minute mark to prevent overbaking. Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on the texture and color.
Flavor Enhancement: For extra richness, try using browned butter instead of melted butter in your recipe. It adds a wonderful nutty flavor to your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of flour should I use for this recipe?
You can use all-purpose flour, which creates a lovely structure for the bread. If you need a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend works beautifully as a substitute. Just ensure the blend has a good balance of binding agents for the best results!
How should I store leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Store the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. That way, you can enjoy your delightful treat even longer!
Can I freeze the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Absolutely! You can freeze the bread for up to 2 months. Slice the bread, wrap each piece in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, and it will taste as fresh as the day it was baked.
What if my bread doesn’t rise?
If your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread doesn’t rise as expected, it could be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Always check the freshness of these leavening agents before you start. If they are fresh and it still doesn’t rise, double-check your oven temperature – an overheated oven may lead to rapid rising followed by collapse.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
Yes, indeed! For a dairy-free version, simply substitute unsalted butter with melted coconut oil. To make it vegan, replace the two large eggs with flax eggs (mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit until it thickens). Using these substitutions will allow everyone to enjoy your festive bread!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Holiday Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In a large mixing bowl, blend melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and buttermilk.
- Gradually incorporate the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in red and green sprinkles gently.
- Pour batter into the loaf pan and sprinkle coarse sugar on top if desired.
- Bake for 45-55 minutes, checking for doneness around the 40-minute mark.
- Allow the loaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
