Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is your perfect companion for the holiday season. This delightful loaf evokes the warmth and joy of Christmas with its vibrant colors and comforting aromas, transforming your kitchen into a festive haven. With each slice, you’re met with a light and fluffy texture, complemented by whimsical sprinkles that add a joyful crunch. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, this recipe is a step-by-step guide to creating a delightful bread that will be the centerpiece of your holiday celebrations. It’s sure to make your gatherings warmer and sweeter!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This bread is not only visually stunning but also incredibly easy to make. With minimal prep time and simple ingredients, it’s an approachable recipe for bakers of all levels, from seasoned pros to curious novices. Family-friendly and oh-so-delicious, this loaf is perfect for breakfast, afternoon snacks, or as a festive gift. Plus, the fluffy texture and sprightly colors make it an instant favorite amongst kids and adults alike!
Ingredients for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of this bread, creating a light and airy crumb.
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance flavors.
- 1 tsp salt: Enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast: Science’s magic—helps the bread rise and become fluffy.
- ¾ cup buttermilk, room temperature: Contributes moisture and richness, making the bread tender.
- 3 Tbsp softened butter: Adds a lovely richness and softness to the crumb.
- 1 large egg, room temperature: Binds the ingredients while adding richness.
- ½ cup non-melting festive sprinkles: Because Christmas baking is all about fun!
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional): A warm, comforting flavor boost.
Step-by-Step Directions for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Combine the wet ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, pour in the warm buttermilk, sprinkle the granulated sugar, add the egg and softened butter, and mix together until well combined. If desired, add the vanilla extract for extra flavor.
Activate the yeast: Sprinkle the instant yeast into the wet mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes. This will get the yeast bubbling and ready to work its magic.
Mix dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and salt, ensuring they’re well blended.
Combine wet and dry ingredients: Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir until just combined, being careful not to overmix.
Knead the dough: Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
First rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a clean cloth, and let it rise until it has doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes.
Fold in sprinkles: Gently deflate the dough after the first rise and fold in the festive sprinkles with care, ensuring they’re evenly distributed.
Shape the loaf: Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
Second rise: Cover and let the dough rise again for about 30 minutes, or until it has risen slightly above the rim of the pan.
Preheat your oven: Set your oven to preheat at 350 °F (176 °C) in preparation for baking.
Bake the bread: Place the loaf in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190 °F (88 °C).
Cool and slice: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Slice after it has cooled completely for the best texture.
Tips & Tricks for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
- Choosing the right buttermilk: If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by adding a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to regular milk. Let it sit for a few minutes before using.
- Temperature matters: Using room temperature ingredients helps the dough rise more effectively and contributes to a better crumb structure.
- Don’t rush the rising process: Allowing the dough to rise fully is crucial for achieving that desired lightness in the bread.
- Customize your sprinkles: Feel free to use different colors and shapes of sprinkles based on the occasion, making it adaptable for any celebration throughout the year.
- Bread baking hacks: For a crustier top, place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of your oven while baking to create steam.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Serve this festive bread warm with a dollop of butter or your favorite spread for a cozy breakfast treat. Try pairing it with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or spiced tea to enhance your holiday experience. Additionally, it makes a wonderful gift for neighbors or friends, especially when presented in a decorative loaf box. For an even sweeter surprise, serve it with a drizzle of honey or a spread of flavored cream cheese.
Nutritional Information for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
While it’s important to enjoy this bread in moderation, it’s packed with delightful flavors that can brighten any meal. A standard slice is approximately 150 calories, making it a treat that won’t break your diet. Each slice contains carbohydrates for energy, along with a bit of protein from the egg and calcium from the buttermilk.
Storing Tips & Variations for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
To keep your bread fresh, store it at room temperature in a breadbox or wrapped in plastic for up to three days. For longer storage, slice the loaf and freeze it for up to three months. Simply reheat slices in the toaster or microwave for a quick treat. Consider experimenting with healthier swaps like whole wheat flour or adding fruits like cranberries or nuts for extra flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
With its effortless preparation and delightful flavor, Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a must-try this holiday season. The vibrant sprinkles bring a cheerful touch to your table, while the soft, fluffy texture is simply irresistible. Don’t wait—get started and fill your home with love, warmth, and the enchanting aroma of freshly baked bread. Your tastebuds will thank you!
FAQs for Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dough a day in advance and store it in the fridge after the first rise. Allow it to come to room temperature before shaping and baking.What can I use instead of buttermilk?
If you don’t have buttermilk, you can substitute it with regular milk mixed with lemon juice or vinegar, allowing it to sit for a few minutes before use.Can I add other flavors to this bread?
Yes! Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or incorporate dried fruits for added sweetness.How do I know when the bread is fully baked?
The bread is done when it is golden brown and sounds hollow when lightly tapped on the bottom. The internal temperature should reach 190 °F (88 °C).Can I use whole wheat flour?
You can use whole wheat flour; however, you may need to adjust the liquid in the recipe slightly, as whole wheat flour absorbs more moisture than all-purpose flour.
Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
A delightful loaf that embodies the warmth and joy of Christmas with vibrant colors and comforting aromas, perfect for holiday gatherings.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Yield: 1 loaf (about 10 slices) 1x
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp granulated sugar
- 1 tsp salt
- 2 ¼ tsp instant yeast
- ¾ cup buttermilk, room temperature
- 3 Tbsp softened butter
- 1 large egg, room temperature
- ½ cup non-melting festive sprinkles
- ½ tsp vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the warm buttermilk, granulated sugar, egg, and softened butter. Mix until well combined. Add vanilla extract if desired.
- Sprinkle the instant yeast into the wet mixture and let it sit for about 5 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour and salt.
- Gradually fold the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring until just combined.
- Lightly flour a surface and knead the dough for about 5-7 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with a clean cloth, and let rise until doubled in size, about 45-60 minutes.
- Gently deflate the dough and fold in the sprinkles.
- Shape the dough into a loaf and place it in a greased 9×5 inch loaf pan.
- Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350 °F (176 °C).
- Bake the loaf for 35-40 minutes, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 190 °F (88 °C).
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Slice after it’s cooled completely.
Notes
For a crustier top, place a shallow pan of water at the bottom of your oven while baking.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg






