Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe

If you’re looking to sprinkle some festive joy into your holiday baking, nothing beats the cheerful charm of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. This delightful loaf is a vibrant burst of color and flavor, combining tender, moist buttermilk bread with joyful sprinkles baked right inside. The sweet glaze drizzled over the top and adorned with nonpareils makes every slice a celebration in itself. It’s not just a treat for your taste buds but also a showstopper for any holiday table, perfect for sharing with family and friends.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread lies in its straightforward ingredients, each chosen to create that perfect balance of texture, sweetness, and festive flair. From the tangy buttermilk that tenderizes the crumb to the sprinkles that bring a merry splash of color, these pantry staples come together in harmony.

• 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread providing structure and softness.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetness that enhances the flavor without overpowering.
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder: Gives the bread a light, airy texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda: Works with buttermilk to aid in rise and tenderness.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and deepens flavor.
• 1 cup buttermilk: Adds moisture, tang, and helps create a tender crumb.
• 1 large egg lightly beaten: Binds ingredients and adds richness.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled: Provides a luscious buttery taste and moist texture.
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract: Adds a subtle aromatic note for extra depth.
• 1/2 cup sprinkles: The festive surprise inside this bread with bursts of color and fun.
• 2 cups powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a sweet, glossy finish for the bread.
• 3 tablespoons buttermilk (for glaze): Helps achieve the perfect glaze consistency.
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup: Adds shine and smoothness to the glaze.
• Nonpareils: Colorful crunchy dots that make the topping as joyful as the bread itself.

How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by moving your oven rack to the upper third to ensure even baking and preheat your oven to 350°. Line a 9×5 inch loaf pan with parchment paper to keep the bread from sticking and make for easy removal later. Setting up this way guarantees a perfect loaf every time.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. This combination brings together leavening elements and seasoning so that your bread rises nicely with balanced flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate smaller bowl, whisk the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and almond extract. This mixture will infuse your loaf with moisture and a light, nutty essence that complements the sweetness perfectly.

Step 4: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix—it’s the key to a tender crumb. Then, gently fold in your colorful sprinkles to distribute that festive vibe throughout.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and pop it in the oven. Bake for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is completely set. The bread is dense but wonderfully moist, so it will need to cool for 1 to 2 hours on a wire rack after a brief 5-minute rest in the pan.

Step 6: Make the Glaze

Once your loaf has cooled completely, whisk together powdered sugar, buttermilk, and light corn syrup until thick but pourable. Drizzle this glaze generously over the bread’s surface—this adds a glossy, sweet finishing touch that perfectly complements the sprinkles inside.

Step 7: Add the Nonpareils

Sprinkle colorful nonpareils over the glaze before it sets to create an eye-catching, crunchy topping. These little dots transform the bread into a true festive centerpiece.

How to Serve Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Garnishes

For an extra festive touch, add a few fresh cranberries or a dusting of powdered sugar around your slices. A light spread of butter or cream cheese can enhance the moist crumb and lend a creamy contrast to the sweet glaze.

Side Dishes

This colorful bread pairs beautifully with a warm cup of holiday-spiced tea or a cozy mug of hot cocoa. For brunch gatherings, serve alongside scrambled eggs or a simple fruit salad to balance the sweetness with fresh notes.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread into finger-sized pieces for a charming holiday platter. Arrange it with nuts, cheese, and seasonal fruits for a festive grazing board that impresses guests and invites sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover bread tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container to keep it moist. Stored properly, it will stay fresh and flavorful for up to 3 days at room temperature, making it a perfect make-ahead treat.

Freezing

If you want to save your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread for longer, slice it first, then freeze the pieces in a resealable bag. This way, you can thaw just what you need, keeping the rest perfectly fresh for weeks.

Reheating

To enjoy the bread warm, pop individual slices in the toaster or microwave for a few seconds. This brings back that tender, fresh-baked feeling and makes the glaze a little gooey and irresistible again.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?

While you can substitute regular milk with a touch of vinegar or lemon juice for a homemade buttermilk substitute, true buttermilk is best for that signature tang and tender crumb in Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread.

Can I use different types of sprinkles?

Absolutely! Nonpareils or jimmies both work well, but avoid chocolate sprinkles as they might melt and affect the color and texture of the bread.

Is the almond extract necessary?

The almond extract adds a lovely warmth and depth that complements the sprinkles and buttermilk nicely, but if you have nut allergies or prefer, you can omit it or replace it with vanilla extract.

How can I tell when the bread is done baking?

The bread should be golden on top and a toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with just a few crumbs clinging to it, indicating it’s fully baked without being dry.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version, substitute buttermilk with a plant-based milk plus vinegar and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The texture might vary slightly but it will still be delicious and festive.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a celebratory loaf that’s as fun to make as it is to eat. It’s simple yet special, carrying all the warmth and cheer of the holiday season in every colorful bite. So, gather your ingredients, get your sprinkles ready, and bring a little extra joy to your holiday table with this radiant bread everyone will love!

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