Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightfully festive loaf that’s fun to make and irresistible to eat, this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe is going to steal your heart (and your holiday table). Imagine soft, tender bread with a gentle tang from the buttermilk, dotted with cheerful red, green, and white sprinkles that add not just color but a subtle crunch and sweet surprise in every bite. It’s a merry twist on traditional quick bread that’s perfect for gift-giving, breakfast celebrations, or just brightening up a cozy afternoon with a cup of tea. Trust me, this recipe will become your seasonal go-to once you try it!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting started with the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe means gathering a handful of simple ingredients that each play an essential role in creating the perfect texture, flavor, and festive look. From the tangy buttermilk to the colorful sprinkles, every item helps bring this joyful bread to life.

• All-purpose flour: The base that provides structure for a soft, tender crumb.
• Buttermilk: Adds moisture and a slight tanginess that balances the sweetness beautifully.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the delicate flavors.
• Unsalted butter, melted: Gives richness and a lovely moist crumb.
• Large egg: Binds the ingredients and adds lift for a light texture.
• Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
• Baking soda: Works with buttermilk to tenderize and ensure perfect rise.
• Salt: Enhances all the flavors aligning the sweetness and tang.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
• Mixed holiday sprinkles: The star of the show—red, green, and white sprinkles bring festive joy and a fun texture.
• Optional extra sprinkles: For decorating the top to make your bread extra merry and bright.

How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preparing the Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Greasing and flouring a 9×5 inch loaf pan is key to making sure your bread frees easily once baked. This simple step saves you from frustration and helps keep the loaf intact when you’re ready to share.

Step 2: Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. This ensures everything is evenly combined so when you fold it into the wet ingredients, the rise is consistent, and the texture is flawlessly tender.

Step 3: Creaming Butter and Sugar, Adding Egg and Vanilla

In another bowl, blend the melted butter with the granulated sugar until creamy. The sugar dissolves slightly in the butter, creating a rich, sweet base. Then, beat in the egg and vanilla extract to bring a smooth, cohesive mixture that invites the buttermilk to shine.

Step 4: Incorporating Buttermilk

Pour the buttermilk gradually into the butter mixture while stirring continuously. This slow incorporation helps keep the batter smooth and ensures the buttermilk’s moisture and tang are evenly distributed throughout.

Step 5: Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Carefully fold the wet mixture into your dry ingredients with a spatula or wooden spoon. The goal is to combine without overmixing; a few lumps are perfectly fine and even desirable to keep the bread soft and tender rather than tough.

Step 6: Adding the Holiday Sprinkles

Gently fold in the festive red, green, and white sprinkles so they’re evenly scattered. These sprinkles not only add bursts of color but a slight, delightful crunch that makes this bread extra special.

Step 7: Pouring the Batter

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the surface with a spatula. If you want to up the festive factor, sprinkle additional holiday sprinkles on top, so they gently toast and add sparkle as the bread bakes.

Step 8: Baking the Bread

Bake for 45 to 55 minutes in your preheated oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time ensures the crumb is cooked through and the exterior gets a lovely golden edge.

Step 9: Cooling Before Serving

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes; this resting time helps it firm up enough to remove without crumbling. Then flip it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing—this final step is crucial to enjoy clean slices that show off those beautiful sprinkles inside.

How to Serve Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe

Garnishes

For a beautiful presentation, consider a light dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of white chocolate glaze. You can also top with a few extra holiday sprinkles to keep the festive spirit shining bright.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a smear of creamy butter or a dollop of whipped cream cheese. Serving it alongside a warm cup of coffee, tea, or hot cocoa makes for a cozy and satisfying holiday snack or breakfast treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Slice the loaf and arrange pieces on a decorated platter surrounded by fresh holly or rosemary sprigs. You can also cut it into bite-size cubes for a festive bread pudding or skewer slices paired with fruit and cheese for an exciting appetizer bite at holiday gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once fully cooled, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container. It will keep fresh at room temperature for 2 to 3 days, maintaining its moistness and tender crumb beautifully.

Freezing

This bread freezes exceptionally well. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to avoid freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 3 months and thawed overnight in the refrigerator or on the counter the day before you want to enjoy it.

Reheating

To bring the bread back to life, warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 10 to 20 seconds. This softens the crumb and refreshes that delightful buttermilk flavor and texture, making every bite taste freshly baked.

FAQs

Can I substitute regular milk for buttermilk in this recipe?

Using regular milk will work in a pinch, but you’ll miss out on the signature tang and tender texture that buttermilk provides. To mimic buttermilk, simply add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk and let it sit for 5 minutes before using.

Are the sprinkles safe to bake with?

Yes! The mixed holiday sprinkles used in this recipe are specifically designed for baking and will hold their shape and color in the oven, giving you festive pops without melting away.

Can I use a different size loaf pan?

You can, but baking times may vary. A larger pan will result in a thinner loaf that bakes faster, and a smaller pan will yield a thicker loaf needing more time. Keep an eye on your bread and use the toothpick test to know when it’s done.

Is this bread sweet or more savory?

It’s lightly sweet, perfect for pairing with both sweet and savory accompaniments. The sugar adds gentle sweetness without being overpowering, making it versatile for different occasions.

Can I add other mix-ins like nuts or dried fruit?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts or dried cranberries would complement the holiday sprinkles beautifully. Just fold them in gently with the sprinkles to keep the texture balanced and festive.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe is a true holiday joy, blending simple ingredients into something magical and bright. The ease of preparation paired with the festive, colorful result makes it a winner for both beginner and seasoned bakers alike. I can’t wait for you to try it and see firsthand how a little sprinkle magic can make your season even sweeter. Happy baking!

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