Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread - Easy Holiday Recipe

As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a festive wonderland filled with cheerful music and the sweet scent of baking. This year, I decided to whip up something special: my Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread. Imagine a slice of warm, tender bread adorned with vibrant sprinkles that bring a pop of color and joy, just like the decorations on your tree! It's not only a treat for the eyes but also a delightful surprise for the taste buds, perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a heartfelt gift wrapped in colorful paper.

Best of all, this easy holiday recipe ensures that even novice bakers can ace it with confidence. The use of buttermilk makes the bread incredibly moist, while the sprinkles add a playful texture that brings smiles to everyone at the table. Whether you're gathered around the breakfast table or sharing slices with friends, this festive quick bread is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Let's get baking and spread some holiday cheer!

Why is Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread special?

Delightful visual appeal: This bread bursts with color, making it a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.
Easy and accessible: Even beginner bakers can create this charming treat effortlessly, making it perfect for anyone.
Moist and tender texture: The combination of buttermilk and butter ensures a soft crumb that melts in your mouth.
Versatile for any occasion: Ideal for breakfast, brunch, or as a festive gift, it fits seamlessly into holiday celebrations.
Fun for all ages: The sprinkles engage both kids and adults, bringing smiles all around with each festive slice.
Make sure to check out my tips for storing your baked goods to keep this delicious bread fresh for longer!

Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

All-Purpose Flour - Provides structure and body; swap with a gluten-free blend for a gluten-free option.
Sugar - Adds sweetness and moisture; brown sugar can deepen the flavor for an extra festive touch.
Baking Powder - The key leavening agent for rising; do not try substituting with baking soda for best results.
Baking Soda - Works in tandem with buttermilk for leavening; critical for achieving the perfect texture.
Kosher Salt - Enhances flavor; sea salt is an excellent substitute if needed.
Buttermilk - Creates a rich, tender crumb and activates baking soda; milk with a tablespoon of vinegar works in a pinch.
Large Egg - Binds the ingredients together for better structure; no recommended egg substitutes will yield the same outcome.
Unsalted Butter - Adds richness and moisture to the bread; opt for coconut oil for a dairy-free alternative.
Almond Extract - Introduces a lovely nutty flavor; vanilla extract can also serve as a substitute.
Sprinkles - Infuses fun color and texture; use jimmies for mixing in, and reserve nonpareils for the topping to prevent color bleeding.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar - Sweetens and gives a smooth finish to the bread; omit it for a simpler presentation.
Corn Syrup - Prevents crystallization in the glaze and adds a shiny finish; honey can be a suitable alternative.

This Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is sure to brighten up your holiday table and bring joy to every gathering!

How to Make Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reposition the oven rack to the upper third for optimal baking. This ensures even heat distribution for a perfect rise.
Prepare a 9x5 inch loaf pan by lining it with parchment paper. This will help the bread to easily release from the pan after baking, making your life so much easier!
Whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt in a large bowl. This dry mixture forms the backbone of our delicious bread.
Mix the wet ingredients by whisking the egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and almond extract in a separate bowl. This will create a rich, flavorful batter that's essential for moist bread.
Combine the wet and dry ingredients, mixing until just combined. Be gentle-over-mixing can lead to a denser texture! Gently fold in the colorful sprinkles for that festive touch.
Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top if necessary. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean.
Cool the bread in the pan for 5 minutes, then carefully move it to a wire rack to cool completely, which may take up to 2 hours. This step is crucial for maintaining the bread's texture.
Prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, buttermilk, and corn syrup in a small bowl. Adjust the thickness as needed, then drizzle it over the cooled bread and sprinkle with nonpareils for a final festive touch.

Optional: Add a sprinkle of toasted nuts on top for an extra crunch!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Room Temperature: Store cut slices in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain the bread's moist texture and flavor.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Just ensure it's well-wrapped to prevent it from drying out or absorbing odd fridge odors.

Freezer: For extended storage, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to a month. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature.

Reheating: To enjoy warm slices, microwave for about 15-20 seconds or toast them for a delightful crunch, enhancing the festive charm of your Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread.

Make Ahead Options

These Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread are perfect for busy home cooks who love to be prepared! You can mix the dry ingredients (flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt) up to 3 days in advance and store them in an airtight container at room temperature to keep them fresh. The wet ingredients can be measured out and mixed just before baking, which makes assembly a breeze. For a time-saving touch, you can bake the bread a day ahead of when you plan to serve it; simply allow it to cool completely and then refrigerate it wrapped in plastic wrap to maintain moisture. When it's time to enjoy, warm slices give you that fresh-baked taste, making your holiday gatherings even brighter!

Festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Variations

Customize this delightful bread to suit your taste and dietary needs while keeping the festive spirit alive!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to create a similar moist texture suitable for gluten-sensitive friends.
Nutty Twist: Add ½ cup of toasted walnuts or pecans to the batter for a delightful crunch that complements the sweetness.
Fruity Flavor: Mix in ½ cup of dried cranberries or chopped dried apricots for a burst of flavor that pairs beautifully with the festive sprinkles.
Citrus Zest: Incorporate the zest of an orange or lemon into the batter for a refreshing citrus note that brightens each slice.
Dairy-Free: Swap buttermilk with coconut milk and the butter with coconut oil to accommodate dairy-free guests without sacrificing flavor.
Spiced Delight: Add 1 teaspoon of cinnamon or nutmeg to the dry ingredients. These warm spices will deepen the festive aroma, making your home even cozier.
Chocolate Chip Indulgence: Fold in ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a decadent twist that adds a rich flavor and playful texture.
Vanilla Essence: Replace almond extract with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract for a classic touch that enhances the sweetness of the bread. Each twist creates a unique experience for loving family gatherings!

Tips for the Best Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Proper Cooling: Always ensure your bread cools completely before glazing. This prevents the glaze from melting away and losing that beautiful finish.
Sprinkle Selection: Use long-stemmed jimmies in the batter for mixing; save nonpareils for the topping to maintain their vivid colors.
Temperature Adjustment: If baking in a glass pan, reduce the oven temperature by 25°F to avoid an overly brown crust while allowing the inside to bake properly.
Ingredient Measurement: Be precise when measuring flour to avoid a dense loaf; spoon and level the flour instead of scooping directly from the bag.
Storage Tips: To keep your festive Christmas sprinkle buttermilk bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer enjoyment.

What to Serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?

Serve this festive delight alongside a medley of flavors that can elevate your holiday gatherings.

Creamy Whipped Butter: A dollop of fresh whipped butter enhances the bread's moisture and adds a rich flavor, making each bite irresistible.
Festive Fruit Salad: The brightness of seasonal fruits like pomegranate, oranges, and apples provides a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread. It's a vibrant way to balance the meal.
Hot Chocolate Bar: Cozy up with cups of rich hot chocolate, complete with marshmallows and peppermint sticks, to complement the bread's festive spirit. The warmth of the chocolate makes every slice feel even more special.
Spiced Apple Cider: Serve warm spiced apple cider for a cozy twist. The aromatic spices pair beautifully with the almond notes of the bread, creating a heartwarming combination perfect for chilly days.
Gingerbread Cookies: Add a playful touch by pairing slices with gingerbread cookies. The warm spices echo the holiday season and invite nostalgia to the table, making it a delightful treat.
Eggnog: A classic holiday beverage, eggnog's creamy sweetness wonderfully harmonizes with the bread's flavors, ensuring a festive cheer with every sip and bite.
Sugar Cookies: Decorated sugar cookies can be a fun addition, providing a similar festive visual appeal while allowing for creative interactions among family and friends.
Pecan Pie Squares: The buttery, nutty richness of pecan pie squares adds a delightful layer of texture and flavor that pairs harmoniously with the moist bread.

Each pairing brings its own joy, making your festive spreads memorable and delicious for every holiday gathering!

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right buttermilk for the recipe?
Absolutely! For the best results, look for buttermilk that's free from additives. If you can't find buttermilk, you can easily create a substitute by mixing one cup of milk with one tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens slightly. This will give your bread the gentle tang it needs to enhance the flavor.

How should I store the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Very easy! To keep it fresh, store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you want it to last longer, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil, and freeze it. This way, it will stay good for up to a month. Just remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before enjoying!

Can I freeze the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?
Of course! Freezing is a fantastic way to enjoy this festive bread later. After it has cooled completely, wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Label it with the date, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight or leave it out for a few hours at room temperature.

What if my bread is too dense?
Don't worry, it happens to the best of us! If your bread turns out dense, it could be due to overmixing the batter or not measuring the flour correctly. Make sure to measure flour by spooning it into your measuring cup and leveling it off. Always mix gently until just combined to keep that tender texture. If you notice it's very dense, it may not rise properly next time, but that lovely flavor will remain!

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Absolutely! This recipe contains gluten from the flour and dairy from buttermilk and butter. For a gluten-free version, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend. If you have dairy allergies, replace buttermilk with a combination of almond milk and vinegar, and use coconut oil instead of butter. Make sure to check the labels on all your ingredients to avoid any potential allergens!

What type of sprinkles should I use?
Great question! For the best mix-in option, it's advisable to use jimmies for mixing into the batter as they hold their color well. Reserve the nonpareils for topping the glaze because they can bleed into the batter and change the bread's vibrant appearance. This way, your bread remains stunningly festive and full of color!