Bake a Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for the Holidays

The holiday season is a time for festive baking, filling our homes with the warm, comforting aromas of homemade treats. And what better way to capture the spirit of the season than with a loaf of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread? This tender, buttery quick bread is bursting with festive flair, thanks to a generous helping of colorful jimmies (sprinkles) folded right into the batter.

Beyond its cheerful appearance, Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread boasts a delightfully moist and fluffy texture, courtesy of the tangy buttermilk. The almond extract lends a subtle yet enchanting flavor, while the sweet glaze and sprinkled nonpareils on top take this bread to new heights of holiday indulgence. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or even gifted to loved ones, this recipe is sure to spread holiday cheer far and wide.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup sugar
• 1½ teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup buttermilk
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled
• ½ teaspoon almond extract
• ½ cup Christmas-colored jimmies (sprinkles)

For the Glaze:

• 2 cups powdered sugar, sifted
• 3 tablespoons buttermilk (plus more as needed)
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
• Christmas-colored nonpareils (for topping)

How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get the oven preheated to 350°F (175°C). Move the oven rack to the upper third position and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper to make for easy removal later.

Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This ensures the leavening agents and flavors are evenly distributed throughout the batter.

Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate, smaller bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, lightly beaten egg, melted and cooled butter, and almond extract. The buttermilk provides moisture and a lovely tangy flavor, while the egg helps bind everything together.

Fold It All Together

Now, pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix, as that can lead to a tough, dense texture. Gently fold in the colorful Christmas jimmies (sprinkles) at the end.

Bake to Perfection

Transfer the batter to the prepared loaf pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely, which can take 1-2 hours for the best texture.

Glaze and Garnish

Once the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread has fully cooled, it’s time to add the finishing touch. Whisk together the powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of buttermilk, and the corn syrup until you achieve a thick, pourable glaze. Drizzle this over the top of the bread, then sprinkle with the festive nonpareils.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bread

To ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread turns out moist and delicious every time, here are a few helpful tips:

• Ingredient Substitutions: If you don’t have almond extract on hand, you can substitute vanilla extract or even a touch of ground cinnamon for a warm, holiday flavor.
• Adjusting Sweetness: Feel free to adjust the sugar amount to suit your personal taste preferences. Start by reducing it by 2-3 tablespoons if you prefer a less sweet bread.
• Baking Time and Temperature: Keep a close eye on the bread during baking, as ovens can vary. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
• Storing for Freshness: Once cooled, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the loaf, tightly wrapped, for up to 2 months.
• Flavor Variations: Try adding chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or a swirl of cinnamon-sugar for extra holiday flair.

Pairing Suggestions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

This festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread pairs beautifully with a variety of holiday-inspired beverages. Enjoy a slice alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa, apple cider, or even a peppermint mocha for a truly indulgent treat. The bread also makes a lovely accompaniment to cream cheese or a festive butter spread for a delightful breakfast or snack.

The History of Buttermilk Bread

Buttermilk has long been a staple ingredient in baking, adding moisture, tenderness, and a subtle tang to breads, cakes, and more. Quick breads like this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread have been a beloved part of holiday traditions for generations, with the vibrant sprinkles adding a celebratory touch.

Over time, the incorporation of festive elements like sprinkles has become a hallmark of holiday baking, transforming everyday treats into joyful, visually appealing delights. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread carries on that time-honored tradition, blending classic flavors with a playful, seasonal twist.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Pumpkin Spice Bread
• Lemon Blueberry Buttermilk Bread
• Holiday Fruitcake

FAQs About Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

What are some creative ways to use leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?

Leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread can be repurposed in various delicious ways. You can transform it into French toast by soaking slices in a mixture of eggs, milk, and cinnamon before frying. Alternatively, cut it into cubes and make a festive bread pudding by combining with eggs, milk, sugar, and your favorite spices. For a quick treat, toast slices for a crunchy snack or serve them with a spread of cream cheese or flavored butter. You could also use the bread to make holiday-themed sandwiches or even croutons for a seasonal salad!

Can I adjust the sweetness of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?

Yes, you can adjust the sweetness of the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to suit your taste. If you prefer a less sweet bread, consider reducing the sugar by about 25%. Alternatively, if you want it sweeter, you can add an extra tablespoon or so, keeping in mind that this may affect the bread’s texture. It’s essential to balance sweetness with the other flavors, so taste testing the batter before baking is a great way to ensure it meets your preferences.

How can I ensure my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread comes out moist?

To ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread remains moist, be mindful of a few key factors. First, avoid overmixing the batter, as this can lead to a denser texture. Mixing just until the wet and dry ingredients are combined is ideal. Additionally, make sure to accurately measure your ingredients, particularly the buttermilk, as too little liquid can dry out the bread. Lastly, baking the bread just until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean will help maintain moisture; overbaking can lead to dryness.

What are the best storage methods for keeping Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread fresh?

To keep your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread fresh, allow it to cool completely after baking. Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, or place it in an airtight container to prevent it from drying out. The bread can be stored at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, you can freeze the bread by wrapping it in plastic wrap and then placing it in a freezer-safe bag. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again, and consider warming slices in the oven or microwave for the best texture.

Spread Holiday Cheer with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

With its festive flair, moist and tender crumb, and delightful flavor, Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a must-bake addition to your holiday baking lineup. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as a snack, or gift it to loved ones, this cheerful quick bread is sure to spread holiday joy and delight. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a new family tradition with this delectable yuletide treat!

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