Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread - Easy Holiday Recipe

The festive season is a time for joy, connection, and of course, delightful treats that warm the heart. As I found myself surrounded by twinkling lights and the sweet aroma of baked goods wafting through the air, I couldn’t resist the urge to whip up something special. Enter my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread—easy to make and bursting with festive spirit!

Imagine slicing into a beautifully moist loaf, speckled with colorful sprinkles that add a playful crunch. This quick bread not only makes a charming centerpiece for your holiday brunch but also doubles as a thoughtful gift that your friends and family will adore. With every bite, you’ll taste the tender crumb and sweet flavor, making it a delightful addition to your seasonal celebrations. So, dust off that mixing bowl, and let me guide you through this simple yet enchanting recipe that brings smiles to both young and old.

Why is Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread so special?

Joyful and Fun: This recipe embodies the festive spirit with colorful sprinkles that brighten up any table setting.

Effortlessly Easy: Perfect for bakers of all skill levels, this quick bread comes together in just a few simple steps.

Versatile Treat: Not just for Christmas! Enjoy this delightful bread for brunch, snacks, or delightful gifts year-round.

Reloaded Flavor: The combination of tangy buttermilk and sweet almond extract creates a uniquely rich taste that keeps you coming back for more.

Impressive Presentation: A beautiful glaze topped with nonpareils makes for a stunning finish, sure to impress family and friends.

Delve into this easy-to-follow recipe that brightens your holidays and fills your home with warmth and cheer. Give it a try today and spread joy with every slice!

Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients

• Get ready to create delicious memories!

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; gluten-free flour can be used as a substitute.
Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; feel free to use brown sugar for an extra rich flavor.
Baking Powder – Leavens the bread; always check for freshness to ensure a perfect rise.
Baking Soda – Works harmoniously with buttermilk for added leavening power.
Kosher Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Buttermilk – Creates a moist and tender bread; swap with yogurt or milk mixed with vinegar if needed.
Large Egg – Binds everything together and adds richness; can be replaced with a flax egg for a vegan twist.
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness; ensure it is melted and cooled. Vegetable oil can be used for a dairy-free option.
Almond Extract – Adds depth of flavor; feel free to substitute with vanilla extract if preferred.
Sprinkles (Jimmies) – Infuse color and texture, ensuring they don’t bleed into the batter.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze for that perfect finish.
Corn Syrup – Helps achieve a pourable glaze; can be omitted if a thicker consistency is desired.
Nonpareils – A decorative topping that adds visual appeal; place them on top after glazing.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re just a few steps away from baking up your very own Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, an easy holiday recipe that your loved ones will cherish!

How to Make Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Preheat Oven: Begin by moving your oven rack to the upper third of the oven and preheat it to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking for your bread.
Prepare Loaf Pan: Line a 9×5 inch aluminum loaf pan with parchment paper. This will help the bread release easily once baked, making cleanup a breeze.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt until well combined. This creates a solid base for your bread.
Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the large egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and almond extract until the mixture is creamy and well blended, ensuring a moist bread.
Combine Mixtures: Gently add the wet mixture to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this is key for a tender crumb!
Fold in Sprinkles: Carefully fold in the colorful sprinkles into your batter. This adds a festive touch that will brighten up your loaf!
Bake: Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes. The bread is ready when the center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes before gently transferring it to a wire rack. Allow it to cool for 1-2 hours completely, which helps develop those lovely flavors.
Prepare Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, buttermilk, and corn syrup until smooth and thick yet pourable. Adjust if needed for your desired consistency.
Glaze Bread: After the bread has cooled, spoon the glaze over the top and immediately sprinkle it with nonpareils for a delightful finish that glistens in the light.

Optional: Serve slices with a pat of butter for an extra touch of warmth!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations

Feel free to explore and customize this delightful recipe to suit your taste buds and holiday cheer!

Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend. Make sure to check your leavening agents as they may vary in performance.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in 1/2 cup of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for added crunch and warmth in every bite. A subtle nutty flavor enhances the overall taste beautifully!
Citrus Twist: Swap the almond extract for lemon or orange zest to infuse a refreshing citrus note. It brightens up your bread and adds a lovely aroma!
Chocolate Delight: Mix in 1/4 cup of cocoa powder to turn this into a festive chocolate bread. The combination of chocolate and sprinkles is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser!
Dairy-Free: Replace buttermilk with almond milk mixed with a tablespoon of vinegar. This still gives you the moisture you desire with no dairy!
Spices Galore: Add a teaspoon of ground cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor. Spices elevate the bread and bring back those cozy holiday memories.
Fruit Fusion: Incorporate 1/2 cup of your favorite dried fruit, such as cranberries or cherries, for a pop of flavor and texture. It’s like little holiday surprises in every slice!
Warm & Spicy: Consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a surprising kick. It creates a delightful contrast against the sweetness of the bread.

With these variations, you’ll transform your Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread into something uniquely yours! Experiment and have fun as you bake up joy this holiday season.

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread recipes are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can mix the wet ingredients (buttermilk, melted butter, egg, and almond extract) and refrigerate them up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring they stay fresh and ready to go. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, fold in the sprinkles, and bake as directed. This way, you’ll have your delightful bread with minimal effort when you need it most, all while keeping it just as delicious!

Expert Tips for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Room Temperature Buttermilk: Ensure buttermilk is at room temperature for better mixing and a lighter, fluffier bread.
Mind the Mixing: Avoid overmixing the batter after adding the wet ingredients to maintain a tender crumb in your festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Toothpick Test: Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean. If it’s gooey, bake a few more minutes.
Cooling is Key: Allow the bread to cool completely before glazing to prevent the glaze from dripping off and keep a beautiful finish.
Monitor Bake Time: All ovens are different, so start checking your bread a few minutes before the suggested bake time to avoid overbaking.

Storage Tips for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Room Temperature: Store your bread wrapped in plastic at room temperature for up to 3 days. This will help maintain its moisture and softness.

Fridge: If you need to keep it longer, refrigerate the bread, wrapped tightly, for up to a week. However, this may alter the texture slightly.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before serving for the best results.

Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, reheat in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes. This will refresh the delicious taste of your festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread!

What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?

Delight in creating a beautiful meal that complements the vibrant spirit of this festive bread.

Creamy Butter Spread: A dollop of rich, creamy butter adds a luscious, savory touch that perfectly balances the sweetness.
Hot Cocoa: Sipping on a warm mug of rich, chocolatey cocoa enhances the sweet flavors while creating a cozy moment.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits provide a refreshing contrast, bringing brightness and health to your table. You can mix seasonal fruits like cranberries, oranges, and apples for a cheerful touch.
Breakfast Sausages: Savory breakfast sausages offer a delightful contrast to the sweet bread, creating a well-rounded meal that everyone will love.
Eggnog: This classic holiday drink adds a festive flair, with its creamy texture complementing the moist nature of the bread.
Whipped Cream: A cloud of lightly sweetened whipped cream over a slice creates a divine, dessert-like experience.
Spiced Tea: A steaming cup of spiced tea harmonizes with the almond flavor, enhancing each bite of the bread.
Cheese Platter: A selection of soft cheeses provides a delightful savory contrast, making it a perfect pairing for your celebratory spread.

Elevate your holiday gatherings by serving these delightful accompaniments alongside your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for a cheerful, festive feast!

Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose ripe ingredients for my Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Absolutely! For the best results, ensure your buttermilk is fresh and at room temperature. It helps create a tender texture in the bread. Additionally, look for an egg that is free-range for better flavor. If you’re using sprinkles, make sure they are of good quality and won’t bleed into the batter during baking.

What is the best way to store Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
To keep your bread fresh, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, you can refrigerate it for up to a week—though be aware this might slightly change the texture.

Can I freeze my Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, and how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your bread, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, or pop it in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 5-7 minutes for a warm slice.

What if my bread sinks in the middle after baking?
Very! A common reason for this might be underbaking, so be sure to follow the toothpick test—insert one in the center, and if it comes out clean, your bread is ready! Additionally, ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for even mixing and proper leavening.

Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of for this recipe?
If you’re making this for someone with allergies, note that this recipe contains gluten and dairy. For gluten-free, you may substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend. For a dairy-free version, you can use plant-based milk in place of buttermilk and vegetable oil instead of butter. Always check your sprinkles for allergy ingredients as some may contain gluten or food colorings that could cause reactions.