Delightful Festive Christmas Bread Recipe

Capture the holiday magic in every slice with this incredibly soft and buttery Festive Christmas Bread! Perfect for brightening up your winter mornings or adding a cheerful touch to your dessert table, this quick and easy recipe is bound to become a cherished family tradition. With its tender, vanilla-scented crumb, accented by a lively burst of red and green sprinkles, it embodies the joy of the season. Topped off with a smooth glaze and a sprinkle of festive charm, it’s one of the best breakfast ideas for Christmas morning, a delightful snack beside your favorite steaming cup of coffee, or a sweet homemade gift that brings smiles to everyone.

This festive loaf checks every box when it comes to holiday baking—whether you’re searching for a simple recipe, creative food ideas, or a fun project to boost your festive spirit. What makes this bread particularly special is its versatility. You can save it for cozy holiday gatherings, surprise loved ones with a homemade treat, or serve it alongside brunch. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into bringing this seasonal delight to life—it’s easier than you might think!

Why You’ll Love This Festive Christmas Bread

• Delicious Flavor: Infused with vanilla and buttery goodness, this bread is delectably sweet.
• Eye-Catching Presentation: The festive sprinkles aren’t just for taste; they add vibrant colors that make this bread a showstopper!
• Quick and Easy: With all ingredients coming together in under an hour, you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time celebrating.
• Versatile Treat: Enjoy it fresh for breakfast, as afternoon tea, or as a joyful gift.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving into this joyful baking adventure, ensure your kitchen is set up for success! Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and gather your ingredients. A 9×5-inch loaf pan, preferably non-stick or coated with parchment paper, is essential for ensuring your bread releases easily after baking. Gather a medium mixing bowl for your dry ingredients, and a larger bowl for your cream and wet ingredients. You’ll also need a hand mixer or stand mixer to cream the butter and sugar together.

Having your eggs and butter at room temperature will aid in achieving a fluffy texture, so plan accordingly. Take a few minutes to properly measure your ingredients—accurate measurement will yield the best results. Lastly, though not strictly necessary, having some festive decorations nearby will add to your holiday spirit and inspiration as you prepare the bread.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup red and green nonpareil sprinkles
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (for glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. Taking these initial steps will set the stage for a successful bake.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly blended and then set the bowl aside for later use. This ensures your raising agent is well distributed, promoting better rise and texture.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy—a process that usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This creaming method introduces air into your batter, which helps the bread achieve a tender crumb.

Step 4: Incorporate the Eggs and Vanilla

Add the two eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Follow this by adding in the vanilla extract, mixing until just blended. The eggs contribute moisture and structure, making your bread richer in flavor and texture.

Step 5: Blend in Milk and Sour Cream

Next, stir in the sour cream and milk, mixing until just combined. This will give the bread its moist texture while balancing the sweetness of the sugar. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want a smooth batter without lumps, but overmixing can lead to a denser loaf.

Step 6: Combine Dry Ingredients with Wet Ingredients

Now, gradually add your dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix slowly on low speed until everything is just combined, and you no longer see dry flour. Be gentle here—the dough should be thick yet smooth. Overmixing can lead to a firm loaf, so stop as soon as you achieve a uniform mixture.

Step 7: Fold in the Sprinkles

Using a spatula, gently fold in the red and green nonpareil sprinkles. This step is key to ensuring the colors remain vibrant instead of bleeding into the dough. Just a few folds should be enough; you want the sprinkles evenly distributed without overworking the batter.

Step 8: Pour and Smooth the Batter

Carefully pour the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. This ensures the loaf has a visually appealing, even surface as it bakes in the oven.

Step 9: Bake the Bread

Place the loaf into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your bread as it bakes; if you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.

Step 10: Cool Before Glazing

Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to firm up slightly before transferring it to a wire rack. Letting it cool completely before glazing prevents the icing from melting and becoming messy.

Step 11: Make the Glaze

In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk until smooth to form a glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if it’s too thick or more powdered sugar if it’s too runny.

Step 12: Drizzle the Glaze and Add Sprinkles

Once your loaf has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or spatula. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle additional red and green nonpareils on top to make it visually stunning. Allow the glaze to set for a few moments before slicing into this delightful loaf.

Variations

• Protein: Consider adding chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
• Vegetables: You can fold in some finely grated zucchini for added moisture and a nutritious twist.
• Spices: Incorporate a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for warming spice notes that complement the vanilla.

Cooking Notes

• Always use room temperature ingredients for even mixing and baking.
• Let the loaf cool completely before glazing to maintain the glaze’s glossy texture.
• If you like a denser texture, consider substituting some all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for added flavor and nutrition.
• Store leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve slices warm with a pat of butter or cream cheese spread for a delightful treat.
• Pair with a hot beverage, such as coffee or hot chocolate, for a delightful holiday breakfast experience.

Tips

• To minimize color bleeding, fold in the sprinkles gently at the end of your mixing process.
• Use a toothpick to check for doneness—clean means a perfectly baked loaf!
• Experiment with flavoring your glaze with peppermint extract for a refreshing minty twist.
• If you want to make mini loaves, bake for about 25-30 minutes instead of 50-60 minutes.

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 80 minutes

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
• Protein: 3g
• Sodium: 150mg

FAQs

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Yes! This Festive Christmas Bread can be made ahead of time and stored wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

What’s the best way to store leftover bread?

The leftover bread should be kept in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain its freshness. Avoid refrigerating, as this can make it dry out quicker.

Can I substitute the milk?

Absolutely! You can substitute whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any dairy-free alternative you prefer for a vegan-friendly version.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs attached. If it comes out wet with batter, continue baking for a few more minutes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this Festive Christmas Bread is a must-try for anyone looking to add a touch of magic to their holiday festivities. Its wonderful combination of flavors and textures makes it a delightful addition to your recipes this season. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, it promises to bring joy to every celebration. We encourage you to share your thoughts, comments, or even variations on this recipe! Whether it’s your first time making this bread or you’re a seasoned baker, it’s sure to become a favorite. So gather your loved ones, enjoy the sweet aroma wafting through your home, and create yet another cherished holiday memory!

Festive Christmas Bread

---

• Author: Alioui
• Total Time: 80 minutes
• Yield: One loaf

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Capture the holiday magic in every slice with this incredibly soft and buttery Festive Christmas Bread!

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (softened)
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/3 cup sour cream
• 1/3 cup red and green nonpareil sprinkles
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze)
• 2–3 tablespoons heavy cream or milk (for glaze)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for glaze)

---

Instructions

1. Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray and line it with parchment paper for easy removal after baking. Taking these initial steps will set the stage for a successful bake.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until they are evenly blended and then set the bowl aside for later use. This ensures your raising agent is well distributed, promoting better rise and texture.
3. In a large mixing bowl, use a hand mixer or stand mixer to combine the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Beat the mixture on medium speed until it becomes light and fluffy—a process that usually takes about 3-5 minutes. This creaming method introduces air into your batter, which helps the bread achieve a tender crumb.
4. Add the two eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure they’re fully incorporated. Follow this by adding in the vanilla extract, mixing until just blended. The eggs contribute moisture and structure, making your bread richer in flavor and texture.
5. Next, stir in the sour cream and milk, mixing until just combined. This will give the bread its moist texture while balancing the sweetness of the sugar. Be careful not to overmix at this stage; you want a smooth batter without lumps, but overmixing can lead to a denser loaf.
6. Now, gradually add your dry flour mixture to the wet ingredients. Mix slowly on low speed until everything is just combined, and you no longer see dry flour. Be gentle here—the dough should be thick yet smooth. Overmixing can lead to a firm loaf, so stop as soon as you achieve a uniform mixture.
7. Using a spatula, gently fold in the red and green nonpareil sprinkles. This step is key to ensuring the colors remain vibrant instead of bleeding into the dough. Just a few folds should be enough; you want the sprinkles evenly distributed without overworking the batter.
8. Carefully pour the prepared batter into the greased loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top. This ensures the loaf has a visually appealing, even surface as it bakes in the oven.
9. Place the loaf into your preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on your bread as it bakes; if you notice the top browning too quickly, tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning.
10. Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to firm up slightly before transferring it to a wire rack. Letting it cool completely before glazing prevents the icing from melting and becoming messy.
11. In a separate bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and 2-3 tablespoons of heavy cream or milk until smooth to form a glaze. Adjust the consistency by adding more liquid if it’s too thick or more powdered sugar if it’s too runny.
12. Once your loaf has cooled completely, drizzle the glaze over the top using a spoon or spatula. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle additional red and green nonpareils on top to make it visually stunning. Allow the glaze to set for a few moments before slicing into this delightful loaf.

Notes

Store leftovers wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature, or freeze for longer storage.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Category: Dessert

Nutrition

• Calories: Approximately 250 per slice
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Protein: 3 g