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As I strolled through the holiday market, the sweet scent of baked goods wrapped around me like a cozy scarf, igniting all my festive feelings. That’s when I decided to create my own fusion of holiday cheer: Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. This vibrant quick bread is bursting with buttery sweetness and adorned with joyful red and green sprinkles, making it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering. With its delightfully soft texture and quick prep time, it’s the perfect solution for busy bakers eager to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, the recipe is versatile, with gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegan options available, so everyone can join in the deliciousness! Are you ready to fill your home with the flavors of the season? Let’s get baking!
Why is this bread a holiday must-try?
Festive Cheer: This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a delightful treat that brings the holiday spirit to your table.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up a gorgeous loaf in under an hour!
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Versatile Options: Whether you’re gluten-free, dairy-free, or vegan, everyone can enjoy this delicious recipe.
Unique Twist: The combination of buttery sweetness with colorful sprinkles makes it a fun and joyful addition to your holiday festivities.
Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for family gatherings or holiday parties, it’ll surely become a favorite among kids and adults alike!
For more exciting holiday ideas, check out these tasty Pistachio Shortbread Cookies or treat yourself to some delightful Christmas Cookie Bars.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients
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For the Bread
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All-purpose flour (1 ¾ cups) – Provides structure for the bread; can substitute with a gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option.
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Baking powder (1 teaspoon) – Helps the bread rise; ensure it is fresh for best results.
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Baking soda (½ teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent; essential to balance the acidity from buttermilk.
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Salt (½ teaspoon) – Enhances flavor; do not omit for best taste.
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Unsalted butter (½ cup, melted) – Adds flavor and moisture; can substitute with coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
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Granulated sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the bread; can reduce by up to ¼ cup for a less sweet loaf.
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Large eggs (2) – Bind ingredients together and help with rising; can use flax eggs as a vegan substitute.
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Buttermilk (1 cup) – Provides moisture and slight tang; substitute with milk + 1 tablespoon vinegar if unavailable.
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Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons) – Adds depth of flavor; use pure extract for the best taste.
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Red and green sprinkles (½ cup) – Adds a festive touch; use jimmies to prevent bleeding colors.
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Optional Topping
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Coarse sugar (1 tablespoon) – Creates a crunchy top; increase sweetness if desired.
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Additional sprinkles for garnish – Enhances presentation; not necessary for flavor.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray to ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread releases easily once baked. This initial step is crucial for achieving that perfect, golden crust.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium mixing bowl, combine 1 ¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and ½ teaspoon of salt. Whisk the ingredients together until they are well blended and aerated, which will help your bread rise beautifully during baking. Set this dry mixture aside for a moment as you prepare the wet ingredients.
Step 3: Prepare the Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together ½ cup of melted unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar until the mixture is smooth and creamy. Next, add 2 large eggs one at a time, incorporating each fully before adding the next. Then, blend in 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract and 1 cup of buttermilk until all the ingredients are well combined, creating a rich batter.
Step 4: Combine the Mixtures
Gradually add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently with a spatula or wooden spoon. Be careful not to overmix; just combine the ingredients until no visible flour remains. The batter should be thick and somewhat lumpy, indicating the perfect consistency for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
Step 5: Fold in the Sprinkles
Gently fold in ½ cup of red and green sprinkles into the batter using a spatula, ensuring they are evenly distributed throughout without overmixing. This step adds a festive touch to your bread, and be cautious, as overmixing may cause the colors to bleed, affecting the cheerful appearance of your loaf.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with your spatula for an even bake. Optionally, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of coarse sugar on top for a delightful crunch. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean with a few moist crumbs.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
Once baked, carefully remove the bread from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes. Then, gently transfer the loaf onto a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling phase is crucial for setting the texture of your delicious Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread before slicing and serving.
What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Imagine the delightful scents of the season intertwined with joyous gatherings as you plan the perfect meal around your festive bread.
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Softened Butter: Elevate each slice with creamy butter that melts into the warm bread, enhancing its buttery sweetness.
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Hot Cocoa: Pair this festive treat with a steaming cup of hot cocoa, adding a cozy ambiance to your holiday celebrations.
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Festive Cheese Platter: A mix of savory cheeses, such as sharp cheddar and creamy brie, balances the sweetness of the bread perfectly.
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Cranberry Sauce: A side of tart cranberry sauce contrasts beautifully with the rich flavors, making for a refreshing bite in each mouthful.
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Creamy Yogurt: A dollop of vanilla yogurt on the side offers a smooth and tangy contrast, making this a delightful breakfast option.
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Holiday Cookies: Serve it with an assortment of holiday cookies, creating an inviting dessert spread that combines different textures and flavors.
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Sparkling Cider: Brighten your gathering with glasses of sparkling cider, providing a festive, bubbly sip that complements the sweetness of the bread.
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Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad brings bright, fresh notes that harmonize with the rich flavors of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Room Temperature: Keep the cooled bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.
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Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to 1 week. This will help preserve its delightful texture and flavor.
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Freezer: Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to freeze for up to 2 months. Proper wrapping helps maintain the quality of your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.
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Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture, and to warm, microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds or let them sit at room temperature before enjoying.
Expert Tips for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
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Check for Fresh Leavening: Ensure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh to guarantee the best rise for your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread; stale ingredients can leave you with a dense loaf.
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Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing after incorporating the dry ingredients and sprinkles; overmixing can result in a tougher texture and cause the sprinkles to bleed.
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Oven Timing: Start checking the bread around the 40-minute mark; everyone’s oven is different, and you want a perfectly moist bread without overbaking.
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Flavor Boost: Consider using browned butter instead of melted butter for a deeper, richer flavor that will elevate your festive bread.
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Sprinkle Handling: When folding in the sprinkles, do so gently to keep their vibrant colors intact; excessive stirring can lead to unwanted color mixing and dullness in presentation.
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations
Feel free to let your creative juices flow and customize this festive bread to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences!
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Gluten-Free: Use a gluten-free flour blend instead of all-purpose flour for a delicious gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.
The texture may vary slightly, but with the right blend, it stays just as moist and delightful! -
Dairy-Free: Substitute buttermilk with almond or soy milk mixed with a teaspoon of vinegar, ensuring it maintains that tender crumb.
This alternative keeps the bread rich without compromising on flavor, making it perfect for dairy-sensitive friends. -
Vegan: Replace the eggs with 2 flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water) to create a plant-based version.
This swap not only keeps your bread vegan but adds a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness beautifully! -
Reduced Sugar: Cut back the sugar by up to ¼ cup for a less sweet loaf, perfect for those who prefer a more subtle sweetness.
A hint of natural sugar allows the festive flavors of vanilla and sprinkles to shine through wonderfully. -
Flavor Infusion: Experiment with different extracts like almond or mint to introduce a new layer of flavor to your bread.
Get adventurous and choose extracts that give a seasonal twist that’ll surprise your family and friends! -
Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans for added crunch and nuttiness.
The hearty texture pairs beautifully with the soft bread and festive sprinkles, creating a delightful contrast in every slice. -
Zesty Twist: Mix in the zest of an orange or a lemon to brighten up the bread’s flavor profile.
This citrus addition adds a refreshing touch that complements the sweetness of the bread and brings the festive spirit alive! -
Chocolatey Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips along with the sprinkles for a sweet surprise in every bite.
The blend of sweetness and colors creates a festive bread that’s indulgently delicious, perfect for any holiday gathering!
For even more festive ideas, don’t miss out on these delightful Pistachio Shortbread Cookies or try making some incredible Christmas Cookie Bars.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can prepare the dry ingredients (flour, 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 (butter, sugar, eggs, vanilla, and buttermilk) and refrigerate them overnight. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry mixtures, fold in the sprinkles, and bake as instructed. This method not only preserves the quality of the bread but also allows you to whip up a delightful holiday treat with minimal effort, ensuring you can focus on other festive preparations!
Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs
What type of flour should I use for the best results?
I recommend using all-purpose flour for the perfect texture and structure in your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, a gluten-free flour blend works beautifully as a substitute, ensuring everyone can enjoy this festive treat!
How should I store the leftover bread?
Store your cooled Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to keep it fresh and moist. If you want to extend its life, refrigerate it for up to a week; this will help retain its delightful flavor and texture.
Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, first, allow it to cool completely. Then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store it for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge, and microwave individual slices for 10-15 seconds to warm!
What do I do if my bread is too dense?
If your bread turns out dense, check that your baking powder and baking soda were fresh, as stale leavening agents can affect the rise. Also, be careful not to overmix the batter; you want just to combine the ingredients until no dry flour is visible. If you find your batter is too thick, gently fold in a little extra buttermilk to achieve a better consistency.
Can I make this bread vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! To create a vegan version of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, you can replace the eggs with flax eggs—mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. For a dairy-free option, substitute buttermilk with almond or soy milk plus 1 tablespoon of vinegar to replicate the tanginess. I often make variations with coconut oil instead of butter for a richer flavor!
Are there any allergy considerations for this recipe?
It’s important to note that this recipe contains common allergens such as eggs and wheat. For a gluten-free option, ensure your flour blend is certified gluten-free. For nut allergies, if you’re using a dairy-free milk alternative, stay clear of almond milk and opt for soy or oat milk instead. Always check labels on your ingredients to ensure safety.
Delicious Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for Festive Cheer
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5-inch loaf pan thoroughly.
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Whisk together.
- In a large bowl, whisk together melted unsalted butter and granulated sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add vanilla extract and buttermilk.
- Gradually mix the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients until just combined.
- Fold in red and green sprinkles gently until evenly distributed.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Optionally, sprinkle coarse sugar on top. Bake for 45-55 minutes.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
