I can still picture the scene: snow gently falling outside, the smell of vanilla and sugar filling our cozy kitchen, and my mom humming Christmas carols as she carefully folded sprinkles into the batter. It wasn’t Christmas without her special bread, and the joy it brought was unmatched.
She always made it with so much love, and I remember feeling so excited to finally be old enough to help her sprinkle the colorful candies on top. Those memories are wrapped up in every slice of this bread, and I’m so happy to share the recipe with you. It’s more than just a treat; it’s a taste of Christmas past, present, and future.
Why you’ll love this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- This Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread is incredibly moist and tender, thanks to the buttermilk.
- The vibrant sprinkles add a festive touch and a delightful burst of sweetness that kids and adults alike will adore.
- It’s surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort and readily available ingredients.
- Enjoy it as a simple breakfast, a festive dessert, or a delightful snack any time of day.
- The soft texture and sweet flavor of this Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread make it perfect for pairing with a warm cup of coffee or tea.
- It’s a wonderful way to bring a touch of holiday cheer to your home.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup Christmas sprinkles
Directions
Step 1
Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread makes every moment feel energetic. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan. This ensures the bread doesn’t stick and comes out easily.
Step 2
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. Whisking helps to evenly distribute the leavening agents and prevents lumps.
Step 3
In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Creaming the butter and sugar creates air pockets that contribute to a tender crumb.
Step 4
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in a tough bread.
Step 5
Gently fold in the Christmas sprinkles. Folding ensures the sprinkles are evenly distributed without breaking or bleeding color into the batter.
Step 6
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly. Tap the pan gently on the counter to release any air bubbles.
Step 7
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent with foil. Start checking for doneness around the 50-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
Step 8
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Cooling the bread in the pan allows it to set and prevents it from crumbling when you remove it.
Variations, pairings, and serving ideas
Variations
For a citrusy twist, add the zest of one orange or lemon to the batter. The bright citrus notes will complement the sweetness of the sprinkles beautifully. You could also swap out the vanilla extract for almond extract for a slightly nutty flavor.
If you’re a chocolate lover, add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter along with the sprinkles. The combination of chocolate and sprinkles is always a winner! Consider using different types of sprinkles, such as shaped sprinkles or edible glitter, to customize the bread for different holidays or celebrations.
For a richer flavor, use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar. Brown sugar adds a hint of molasses and creates a chewier texture. Feel free to experiment with different extracts, such as peppermint or maple, for a unique flavor profile.
Pairings
This Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread pairs perfectly with a warm beverage like coffee, tea, or hot cocoa. The sweetness of the bread complements the bitterness of the coffee or tea wonderfully. For a more indulgent treat, serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream.
Consider serving it alongside a fruit salad for a balanced and refreshing breakfast or brunch. The sweetness of the bread pairs well with the tartness of the fruit. Serve with a simple yogurt parfait for added protein and creaminess.
If you’re looking for something savory, try pairing it with a cheese board featuring mild cheeses like brie or goat cheese. The sweetness of the bread provides a nice contrast to the savory cheeses. For more inspiration, check out this recipe for Cherry Coconut Magic Bars at Cook Reel. It’s another sweet treat that would be perfect for a holiday gathering!
Serving ideas
Slice the Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread and arrange it on a festive platter for an eye-catching presentation. Sprinkle additional sprinkles on top for extra sparkle. Serve with a pat of butter or a dollop of cream cheese.
Toast slices of the bread for a warm and crunchy treat. Top with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for added sweetness. Cut the bread into cubes and use it to make French toast or bread pudding.
Package individual slices in cellophane bags and tie with ribbon for a thoughtful homemade gift. Include a handwritten card with serving suggestions for a personal touch. Consider using festive cupcake liners to present individual slices.
Storage and make-ahead tips
Storage
Store leftover Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator, as this can make it stale.
For longer storage, you can freeze the bread. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer bag. Frozen bread can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Thaw completely at room temperature before serving.
To refresh slightly stale bread, wrap it in a damp paper towel and microwave for 10-15 seconds. This will help to rehydrate it and make it softer. You can also toast it to revive its texture and flavor.
Make-ahead
You can prepare the batter for this Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread up to 24 hours in advance. Store it in the refrigerator in an airtight container. Let it come to room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking.
You can also bake the bread ahead of time and freeze it. Allow it to cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. Thaw it at room temperature a few hours before you want to serve it.
For an extra festive touch, consider making a simple glaze ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and drizzle it over the bread just before serving. This will add a touch of sweetness and make the bread even more visually appealing.
Common mistakes when making Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Overmixing the batter: Overmixing develops the gluten in the flour, resulting in a tough bread. Mix only until the ingredients are just combined.
- Using cold butter: Cold butter won’t cream properly with the sugar, which can affect the texture of the bread. Make sure the butter is softened to room temperature before you start.
- Overbaking the bread: Overbaking can dry out the bread and make it crumbly. Check for doneness with a wooden skewer around the 50-minute mark.
- Not measuring ingredients accurately: Accurate measurements are crucial for baking success. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you’re using the correct amounts.
- Forgetting to grease and flour the pan: This can cause the bread to stick to the pan and be difficult to remove. Make sure to grease and flour the pan thoroughly before pouring in the batter.
Final notes
This Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread is a simple yet delightful recipe that’s sure to become a holiday favorite. The moist texture, festive sprinkles, and comforting flavor make it perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and additions to make it your own. Baking should be fun and creative!
So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to fill your kitchen with the wonderful aroma of freshly baked Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread. Enjoy!
Loved this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread? Try these next
- Cherry Coconut Magic Bars
- Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread
- Apple Crumble Muffins
- Pumpkin Spice Pancakes
- Gingerbread Cookies
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Bring some festive cheer to your kitchen with this delightful Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. Soft, moist, and studded with colorful sprinkles, it’s the perfect treat for the holiday season. Enjoy warm slices with a pat of butter or cream cheese for a truly festive experience.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 12 slices 1x
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1/2 cup Christmas sprinkles
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking soda, baking powder, and salt.
- In a large bowl, cream together the sugar and softened butter until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with the buttermilk, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined.
- Gently fold in the Christmas sprinkles.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean. If the top starts to brown too quickly, tent with foil.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes
Store leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For a festive twist, add a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and milk. This bread is also delicious toasted with a spread of butter.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 180mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 45mg