Bake Irresistible Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Today!

The holiday season is a time for indulging in sweet treats, gathering with loved ones, and creating cherished memories. And what better way to kick off the festivities than with a slice of homemade Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread? This tender, buttery quick bread is bursting with festive flair, thanks to the vibrant sprinkles folded into the batter. It’s the perfect addition to your holiday breakfast spread or a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and neighbors.

Quick breads have long been a beloved baking tradition, offering an easy, no-yeast route to freshly baked goodness. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is no exception, delivering moist, flavor-packed slices with minimal effort. The buttermilk lends a subtle tang that balances the sweetness, while the almond extract provides a delightful aroma that fills the kitchen as the bread bakes. And of course, those colorful sprinkles add a playful, whimsical touch that’s sure to put everyone in the holiday spirit.

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

To make this festive quick bread, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 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)

Equipment Needed

To bring this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread to life, you’ll need a few simple kitchen tools:

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• 9×5-inch loaf pan
• Parchment paper
• Wire rack for cooling

Step-by-Step Instructions

Ready to bake up a batch of this festive quick bread? Follow these easy steps:

1. Preheat Oven: Move the oven rack to the upper third of the oven and preheat to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt.
3. Mix Wet Ingredients: In a smaller bowl, whisk together the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and almond extract.
4. Combine & Add Sprinkles: Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir just until combined. Fold in the Christmas-colored jimmies (sprinkles).
5. Bake: Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set. Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely (1-2 hours for best texture).
6. Glaze: Once the bread is fully cooled, whisk together the powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of buttermilk, and the corn syrup until you achieve a thick, pourable consistency (add more buttermilk if needed). Spoon the glaze over the bread and sprinkle with the Christmas-colored nonpareils.
7. Serve & Enjoy: Slice and savor this festive, tender Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread—perfect for holiday breakfast or gifting!

Tips for Perfecting Your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

To ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread turns out moist, flavorful, and picture-perfect every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Don’t Overmix: Be careful not to overmix the batter once the wet and dry ingredients are combined, as this can result in a tough, dense texture. Gently fold the ingredients together just until they’re incorporated.
• Check for Doneness: Use the toothpick test to check for doneness—insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf, and if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, the bread is ready.
• Let It Cool Completely: Allowing the bread to cool fully before glazing is essential for the best texture. The interior will continue to set as it rests, resulting in a tender, moist crumb.
• Experiment with Extracts: While almond extract is a classic pairing, you can also try using vanilla, rum, or even peppermint extract to create different flavor profiles.
• Mix Up the Sprinkles: Feel free to use a variety of Christmas-themed sprinkles, like stars, snowflakes, or a mix of colors, to make your bread even more festive.

Creative Serving Suggestions

This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a true crowd-pleaser, perfect for serving at holiday gatherings or gifting to loved ones. Here are some ideas to make the most of this delightful quick bread:

• Breakfast or Brunch: Slice and serve the bread alongside a steaming cup of coffee, hot chocolate, or holiday-themed tea for a cozy start to the day.
• Hostess Gift: Wrap a loaf in festive cellophane or tissue paper and tie it with a ribbon for a thoughtful homemade present.
• Dessert Course: Top slices with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of sweetened whipped cream for a decadent dessert.
• Bread Pudding: Cube the bread and use it as the base for a rich, creamy Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Pudding.

More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy

• Spiced Peach Bread
• Peach Bread Pudding
• Pecan Upside-Down Cake
• Cinnamon Roll Bliss Bars

FAQs About Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Can I use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour in the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread recipe?

Yes, you can substitute whole wheat flour for all-purpose flour in this recipe, but it may affect the texture and flavor. Whole wheat flour is denser and has a nuttier taste, which can make the bread slightly heavier. To achieve a lighter texture, consider using a blend of half whole wheat and half all-purpose flour or adding an extra tablespoon of buttermilk to the batter to compensate for the additional absorbency of whole wheat flour.

How do I know when my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is fully baked?

To check if your bread is fully baked, insert a toothpick or cake tester into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs (not wet batter), the bread is done. Additionally, the top should be golden brown, and the loaf should spring back when gently pressed. If the bread is browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with aluminum foil during the last 10-15 minutes of baking.

What can I do if my glaze for the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is too thick?

If your glaze is too thick, you can thin it out by gradually adding more buttermilk, a teaspoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Make sure to whisk thoroughly after each addition to ensure it combines well. If you accidentally make it too thin, you can add a little more sifted powdered sugar to thicken it back up.

Can I add additional mix-ins to the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, and if so, what are some good options?

Absolutely! You can personalize your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread by adding mix-ins. Consider incorporating ½ cup of chopped nuts (like walnuts or pecans), dried fruits (such as cranberries or raisins), or chocolate chips for added flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overload the batter—keep the total amount of mix-ins to around 1 cup to maintain the right bread consistency.

Conclusion

Baking up a batch of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is the perfect way to infuse your holiday season with warmth, cheer, and deliciousness. This festive quick bread is sure to delight family and friends, whether served for breakfast, gifted to loved ones, or enjoyed as a cozy dessert. So preheat your oven, gather your ingredients, and let the sweet aroma of this Christmas-themed quick bread fill your home. Wishing you a very merry and bright baking experience!

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