There’s something magical about the holiday season, especially when it centers around delicious food that brings joy to those we love. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread embodies the essence of Christmas cheer while being surprisingly simple to prepare. With its fluffy texture, delightful sweetness, and beautiful festive colors, this bread is not only a tasty treat but also a feast for the eyes. Imagine serving a slice at your Christmas breakfast or gifting a loaf to a neighbor—it’s bound to spread smiles and warmth.
The beauty of this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is not just in its taste but also in its ease of preparation. You don’t need to worry about yeast or rising times; this recipe requires minimal effort! Just mix the ingredients, pour them into a pan, bake, and watch as the lovely aroma fills your home. Plus, its sweetness and festive decorations make it a perfect addition to your holiday brunch table or as a delightful homemade gift. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this scrumptious, joyful bread!
Why You’ll Love This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Here are just a few reasons this recipe should be on your holiday baking list:
- Tender and Buttery: The buttermilk ensures the bread stays soft and moist, while the melted butter adds a rich flavor.
- Festive Appeal: Bright Christmas sprinkles make each slice look as good as it tastes, adding a pop of color to your holiday table.
- Quick and Easy: No yeast or rising time means you can whip this up quickly, making it perfect for last-minute holiday gatherings.
- Perfect for Gifting: This bread makes a wonderful gift for neighbors and friends, spreading holiday cheer in every slice.
- Endless Versatility: Enjoy it plain, with the sweet glaze, or even toasted with a bit of butter for breakfast!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the baking of this delightful Christmas bread, it’s crucial to prepare your kitchen and gather the right tools. Start by making sure your workspace is clean and organized. Pre-measure all your ingredients to streamline the process. You’ll need a good quality 9×5 loaf pan—preferably non-stick or lined with parchment paper for easy removal. A large mixing bowl for your dry ingredients and a separate bowl for the wet ingredients are also essential. An electric mixer isn’t necessary, as a simple whisk will do the trick for combining the wet ingredients.
Additionally, prepare your baking area by ensuring your oven rack is in the upper third of the oven, which is perfect for even heat distribution. Preheat the oven to 350°F while you mix your batter. Having everything within reach will help keep the process efficient and enjoyable.
Ingredients
For this festive bread, you’ll need simple ingredients that are likely already in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted & cooled)
- ½ tsp almond extract (or vanilla)
- ½ cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies – not nonpareils)
For the glaze, gather the following:
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3 tbsp buttermilk (plus more as needed)
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup
- Christmas nonpareils (for topping)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan
Start by prepping your loaf pan. Lightly grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy release after baking. This step is crucial for ensuring that your bread comes out perfectly without sticking.
Step 2: Whisk Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Make sure there are no clumps, as this will help your bread mix much more smoothly. This dry mix provides the base structure for your bread.
Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, beaten egg, melted butter, and almond extract. Whisk them together until well combined. The buttermilk is key to creating a tender bread, while the butter adds richness.
Step 4: Mix It Up
Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the bowl containing the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s okay if there are a few lumps remaining. Gently fold in the Christmas sprinkles now, ensuring they are well distributed without overworking the batter.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
Pour the mixed batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake in the preheated oven for around 45 to 50 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick inserted into the middle comes out clean. The smell will be heavenly as it bakes! Once done, let the bread cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool completely, which may take an hour or two since this bread is quite dense.
Step 6: Prepare the Glaze
While the bread is cooling, you can prepare the glaze. In a mixing bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk, and corn syrup until you achieve a thick but pourable consistency. Adjust with additional buttermilk as needed. Once the bread is completely cooled, drizzle the glaze over the top and garnish with Christmas nonpareils for that festive touch. Wait for the glaze to set before slicing the bread into perfect pieces.
Variations
While this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is perfect as is, there are plenty of fun ways to switch it up!
- Protein: Mix in some cooked bacon or sausage for a savory twist, creating a unique breakfast option.
- Vegetables: Add finely grated carrots or pumpkin puree for extra moisture and flavor, which would also lend a delicious seasonal touch.
- Spices: Sprinkle in some cinnamon or nutmeg to give your bread a warm, aromatic flavor. Consider some citrus zest for a fresh pop!
Cooking Notes
Here are a few notes to ensure your bread turns out perfectly:
- Make sure to measure your flour correctly. Spoon it into the measuring cup and level it off with a knife to avoid dense bread.
- If using non-festive sprinkles, your bread may not have the same holiday appeal, but it will still taste delicious!
- Don’t rush the cooling process! Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing; this ensures a perfect finish.
- For a more pronounced flavor, try using real vanilla extract instead of almond extract. It will add a lovely depth to your bread.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze them for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is incredibly versatile for serving:
- Pair it with savory breakfast dishes like scrambled eggs or a cheese platter for a balanced brunch.
- Serve it alongside a hot cup of cocoa or spiced chai for a warming afternoon treat.
Tips
To take this bread to the next level, consider these tips:
- Try adding a pinch of salt to the glaze—this contrast will elevate the sweetness beautifully.
- For an ultra-festive twist, consider folding in dried cranberries or chopped walnuts.
- When glazing, be creative! Create a marbled effect by swirling the glaze with a toothpick after applying.
- Adjust sweetness by reducing the sugar in the bread base if desired for a less sweet version.
- Serve warm or room temperature; both ways highlight the delicious buttery flavor!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 250 per slice (based on 12 slices per loaf)
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 200mg
FAQs
Can I use milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, you can use milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to mimic buttermilk. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
How do I store leftover bread?
Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Just make sure it’s wrapped tightly!
Can I substitute the almond extract?
Absolutely! Vanilla extract would be a perfect substitute, providing a more classic flavor.
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Yes! This bread stays fresh for a few days and can also be frozen. Just glaze when ready to serve!
Conclusion
This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is more than a delightful holiday treat; it’s a symbol of the joy that food can bring to our celebrations. With its easy preparation, bright flavors, and festive appearance, it’s sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Whether you’re serving it at breakfast, giving it as a gift, or simply enjoying a slice with your cocoa, this bread is a festive delight that captures the spirit of the season. So why wait? Gather your ingredients and start your holiday baking adventure today. Remember to share your thoughts and variations in the comments below—happy baking!
Print
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Total Time: 2 hours
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
Description
This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is more than just a delicious holiday treat; it’s a symbol of the joy that food can bring to our celebrations.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 ½ tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 large egg (lightly beaten)
- ½ cup unsalted butter (melted & cooled)
- ½ tsp almond extract (or vanilla)
- ½ cup Christmas sprinkles (jimmies – not nonpareils)
For the glaze, gather the following:
- 2 cups powdered sugar (sifted)
- 3 tbsp buttermilk (plus more as needed)
- 1 tbsp light corn syrup
- Christmas nonpareils (for topping)
Instructions
- Start by prepping your loaf pan. Lightly grease a 9×5 loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy release after baking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Make sure there are no clumps.
- In a separate bowl, combine the buttermilk, beaten egg, melted butter, and almond extract. Whisk them until well combined.
- Carefully pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined, then fold in the Christmas sprinkles.
- Pour the mixed batter into your prepared loaf pan. Bake in the preheated oven for around 45 to 50 minutes.
- While the bread cools, prepare the glaze by whisking powdered sugar, buttermilk, and corn syrup until thick but pourable.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Bread
Nutrition
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Sodium: 200 mg
- Protein: 3 g