As I stood by the oven, the sweet aroma of vanilla and butter danced around me, transporting me to my childhood kitchen where love was measured in sprinkles. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is more than just a delightful treat; it’s a heartfelt nod to nostalgia and festive joy. With its tender crumb and vibrant sprinkles, this recipe not only offers a quick prep time, making it perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings, but also serves as a whimsical centerpiece to share with loved ones. Imagine cutting into a loaf that captivates every eye with its playful colors while wrapping your senses in a warm embrace of holiday cheer. Are you ready to whip up this delightful creation and make a few sweet memories along the way?
Why is this bread so special?
Nostalgic Charm: This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread brings back treasured memories, reminding you of family gatherings filled with laughter and joy.
Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep, it’s perfect for those busy holiday moments.
Vibrant Sprinkles: The addition of colorful sprinkles not only lifts spirits but also makes for an eye-catching centerpiece for any table.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, festive dessert, or sweet gift—endless possibilities await!
Irresistible Glaze: The luscious glaze takes this bread to another level of indulgence, ensuring each bite is a delight.
Make this festive bread to create sweet memories that everyone will treasure!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
• Get ready to bake this festive treat!
For the Bread
• 2 cups all-purpose flour – creates a tender base for your holiday delight.
• 1 cup sugar – adds sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully.
• 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder – ensures a light and fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon baking soda – helps the bread rise perfectly.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – enhances all the flavors in this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
• 1 cup buttermilk – provides moisture and richness for a soft crumb.
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten – binds the ingredients together for a well-mixed batter.
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled – infuses a delightful buttery flavor into each slice.
• ½ teaspoon almond extract – adds a hint of warmth and aroma that’s equally festive.
• ½ cup sprinkles – brings a dash of color and fun, making each bite more cheerful!
For the Glaze
• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted – gives the glaze its sweetness and smooth texture.
• 3 tablespoons buttermilk, plus more as needed – thins out the glaze to the perfect pouring consistency.
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup – adds shine and keeps the glaze from hardening.
• Nonpareils (for topping) – a sprinkle finish for that extra festive touch!
Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let’s explore the wonderful process of creating this holiday masterpiece!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Move the oven rack to the upper third position and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, line a 9x5 inch aluminum loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing some overhang for easy removal later. The preparation sets the stage for your festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to bake perfectly.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 ½ teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until they're fully blended, creating a light and airy dry mix that will provide structure and sweetness to your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together 1 large beaten egg, 1 cup of buttermilk, ½ cup of melted and cooled unsalted butter, and ½ teaspoon of almond extract. Blend until the mixture is smooth and uniform in color. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, allowing the flavors to meld as you prepare to create a delightful batter.
Step 4: Create the Batter
Gently fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients, stirring just until combined. It’s important not to overmix; you want your batter to be slightly lumpy. Now, add in ½ cup of colorful sprinkles, folding them into the batter to ensure an even distribution. The bright specks will give your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread a joyous festive flair.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Transfer the vibrant batter to your prepared loaf pan, leveling the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes. Keep an eye out for visual cues—you’ll know it’s done when the center is set, and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean, allowing the warm, sweet aroma to fill your kitchen.
Step 6: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the loaf pan from the oven. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before carefully transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely for about 1 to 2 hours. This step ensures that your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread maintains its perfect texture, ready for the next delicious addition.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While waiting for the bread to cool, whisk together 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of buttermilk, and 1 tablespoon of corn syrup in a separate bowl. Keep mixing until the glaze is thick yet pourable, adjusting with more buttermilk as needed to achieve your desired consistency. This luscious glaze will elevate your already festive bread.
Step 8: Glaze the Bread
Once the bread is completely cooled, it’s time to bring it to life with the glaze! Spoon the prepared glaze evenly over the top of the bread, allowing it to drip slightly down the sides for a beautiful finishing touch. To add an extra festive flair, sprinkle nonpareils on top, creating a delightful presentation for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Room Temperature: Keep your baked Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain its freshness and flavor.
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Fridge: For longer storage, you can refrigerate the bread in an airtight container. It will stay fresh for up to a week, though the texture may change slightly.
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Freezer: Freeze slices of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in a single layer, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying.
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Reheating: Warm individual slices in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds or toast them lightly for a delightful texture. Enjoy the tastes of the holidays any time!
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
• Don’t Overmix: Gently fold the batter until just combined to keep your bread tender and fluffy—overmixing can lead to a dense loaf.
• Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean when the bread is perfectly baked. Keep an eye on the time; ovens vary!
• Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool for 1-2 hours before glazing. This step is crucial for the glaze to adhere nicely without sliding off.
• Sprinkle Strategy: Add sprinkles gently into the batter—this ensures they are evenly distributed and don’t sink to the bottom of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
• Adjust Glaze Consistency: If the glaze is too thick, slowly add more buttermilk until it reaches a pourable consistency. You want it to beautifully drape over the bread!
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread loaves are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing the dry ingredients and storing them in an airtight container. Additionally, the wet ingredients can be whisked together and refrigerated until you're ready to bake. For even more convenience, you can bake the bread up to 3 days ahead of time; just be sure to let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. When it’s time to serve, simply glaze the bread right before presenting it to ensure it's just as delightful and festive!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful recipe your own!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend for a different yet delicious texture. Just ensure your baking powder is gluten-free too!
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Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk in place of buttermilk, and replace unsalted butter with coconut oil for a vegan-friendly option. A subtle coconut flavor beautifully complements the bread.
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Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, to enhance texture and flavor. The crunch will pair perfectly with the tender crumb.
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Chocolate Drizzle: For a decadent finish, melt chocolate chips and drizzle over the glazed bread. This sweet addition will take it to a whole new level of indulgence.
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Fruity Fun: Mix in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips or dried fruit such as cranberries or cherries, adding extra sweetness and color. Each slice will be a delightful surprise!
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Spicy Kick: Spice it up with a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg in the dry ingredients, introducing a warm, festive flavor that evokes holiday cheer with every bite.
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Citrus Zest: Incorporate 1 tablespoon of lemon or orange zest for a bright, refreshing note that contrasts beautifully with the sweetness of the bread.
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Festive Toppings: Instead of nonpareils, consider topping with crushed candy canes for a minty crunch that truly celebrates the season.
Experimenting with these variations could lead to a personalized version of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread that your loved ones will cherish even more!
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Indulging in a slice of this festive delight opens up a world of wonderful pairing possibilities to create a well-rounded meal.
- Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The buttery richness contrasts beautifully with the sweet bread, creating a comforting duo for any festive table.
- Bright Spinach Salad: A light salad with citrus vinaigrette refreshes the palate and balances the sweetness of the bread.
- Savory Cheese Platter: Including a variety of cheeses, nuts, and fruits adds sophisticated flavors that complement the sweetness of the bread.
- Hot Cocoa or Holiday Spiced Tea: These warm beverages enhance the seasonal spirit, bringing a cozy warmth to each slice.
- Roasted Veggies: Caramelized vegetables bring earthy and savory elements, making each bite a delightful mix of textures.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety ice cream drizzled with chocolate sauce will take the bread to a dessert level everyone will love.
Serve this delightful combination at your gathering, and the warmth of the season will fill the air as everyone shares in the joy of delicious food!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best buttermilk for this bread?
Absolutely! When choosing buttermilk, look for a brand that has a fresh, tangy aroma and is labeled "cultured." Avoid cartons with dark spots or separation, as they may be past their prime. If you’re in a pinch, you can make a substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice and letting it sit for about 5-10 minutes.
What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Very! Just wrap your leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days for optimal freshness. If you prefer to keep it longer, moving it to the fridge can extend its life to about a week, though the texture may change slightly.
Can I freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread? If so, how?
Definitely! To freeze your bread, slice it into portions first for easy enjoyment later. Place the slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are frozen solid. Once frozen, transfer the slices to a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible, and seal it tightly. Your bread can be frozen for up to 3 months! To thaw, simply leave it in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours.
What should I do if my bread doesn’t rise properly?
Oh no! If your bread doesn’t rise, it might be due to expired baking powder or baking soda. Be sure to check the expiration date before using them. Additionally, ensure that your wet ingredients aren’t too hot when combined with dry ones, as that can kill the leavening agents. For best results, mix gently and avoid overmixing the batter to keep it light and fluffy.
What dietary considerations should I be aware of?
Certainly! This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread contains gluten due to the all-purpose flour, and it also includes dairy from buttermilk and butter. If you’re looking for a gluten-free version, you could try a gluten-free all-purpose blend, ensuring it contains xanthan gum for the proper texture. For lactose-intolerant individuals, using lactose-free buttermilk and butter would work well—creating a delicious treat for all to enjoy!
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to Delight You
Equipment
- 9x5 inch aluminum loaf pan
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Bread
- 2 cups all-purpose flour creates a tender base for your holiday delight
- 1 cup sugar adds sweetness that balances the flavors beautifully
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder ensures a light and fluffy texture
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda helps the bread rise perfectly
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt enhances all the flavors
- 1 cup buttermilk provides moisture and richness
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten binds the ingredients together
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled infuses a delightful buttery flavor
- 0.5 teaspoon almond extract adds warmth and aroma
- 0.5 cup sprinkles brings a dash of color and fun
For the Glaze
- 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted gives the glaze its sweetness
- 3 tablespoons buttermilk thins out the glaze
- 1 tablespoon light corn syrup adds shine to the glaze
- Nonpareils for topping
Instructions
Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a 9x5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- In another bowl, whisk together egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and almond extract until smooth.
- Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients until just combined, then add the sprinkles.
- Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45 to 50 minutes.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before moving to a wire rack for 1 to 2 hours.
- For the glaze, whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk, and corn syrup until pourable.
- Glaze the cooled bread and sprinkle nonpareils on top.
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