Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

This festive Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. With its soft, tender texture and sweet almond flavor, it’s the perfect treat for breakfast, brunch, or as a charming gift. The vibrant sprinkles and luscious buttermilk glaze make it not only delicious but also visually appealing, ensuring smiles all around during the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This quick bread comes together in just a few simple steps, making it perfect for busy holiday mornings.
• Festive Flavor: The sweet almond extract combined with colorful sprinkles creates a unique taste that embodies the spirit of Christmas.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrapped in festive paper, this bread makes a wonderful homemade gift for friends and family.
• Versatile Serving Ideas: Enjoy it as a sweet breakfast treat, a brunch centerpiece, or even as an afternoon snack with coffee or tea.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: Children will love helping to mix the ingredients and sprinkle on the nonpareils!

Tools and Preparation

To create your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread successfully, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment makes the baking process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Loaf Pan: A sturdy loaf pan ensures even baking and helps maintain the shape of your bread.
• Mixing Bowls: Having multiple sizes allows you to separate dry and wet ingredients effectively.
• Whisk: A good whisk helps incorporate air into your batter, resulting in a lighter texture.

Ingredients

For the Bread:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup granulated 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 sprinkles (jimmies)

For the Glaze:

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

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How to Make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and adjust the rack to the upper third position. Line a 9×5-inch aluminum loaf pan with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the following:
1. Whisk together 2 cups all-purpose flour, 1 cup granulated sugar, 1½ teaspoons baking powder, ½ teaspoon baking soda, and 1 teaspoon kosher salt. Ensure there are no lumps for an even texture.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, mix:
1. Whisk together 1 cup buttermilk, 1 large egg (lightly beaten), ½ cup melted unsalted butter (cooled), and ½ teaspoon almond extract.

Step 4: Make the Batter

Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined.
– Fold in ½ cup Christmas-colored sprinkles, being careful not to overmix to avoid color bleeding.

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Transfer your batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake in your preheated oven for 45–50 minutes. The bread is ready when its center is set and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool

Allow the bread to cool in its pan for about 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Let it cool completely for 1–2 hours due to its dense texture.

Step 7: Make the Glaze

Once cooled, whisk together:
1. Combine 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons buttermilk, and 1 tablespoon light corn syrup. Adjust with more buttermilk until you reach a thick yet pourable consistency.

Step 8: Finish and Serve

Spoon the glaze generously over your cooled bread. Top with nonpareils for an extra festive touch. Allow the glaze to set before slicing into this delightful holiday treat!

How to Serve Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or looking for a sweet snack, this bread is versatile and sure to impress.

For Breakfast

• Toast with Butter: A slice of warm bread with a pat of butter enhances the almond flavor.
• Pair with Fruit: Serve alongside fresh berries or citrus slices for a refreshing contrast.

As a Snack

• With Coffee or Tea: Enjoy a slice while sipping your favorite warm beverage during the holiday season.
• Drizzled with Honey: A touch of honey adds extra sweetness and pairs wonderfully with the bread’s flavors.

For Gifting

• Wrap in Decorative Paper: Gift a loaf wrapped in festive paper for a charming homemade present.
• Include a Recipe Card: Share the joy by including the recipe for others to replicate this festive treat.

At Brunch

• Serve on a Festive Platter: Arrange slices on a beautiful platter garnished with seasonal fruits.
• Accompanying Cheese Board: Pair with creamy cheeses for an indulgent brunch experience.

How to Perfect Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

To ensure your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.

• Boldly Measure Ingredients: Use precise measurements for flour and sugar to maintain the right texture.
• Boldly Mix Wet and Dry Separately: Mixing wet and dry ingredients separately helps achieve an even batter without overmixing.
• Boldly Fold in Sprinkles Gently: Carefully folding in the sprinkles prevents color bleeding and keeps them vibrant.
• Boldly Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick inserted into the center to check if the bread is fully baked; it should come out clean.
• Boldly Cool Completely Before Glazing: Allowing the bread to cool completely ensures the glaze sets properly without melting away.

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Best Side Dishes for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Pairing side dishes with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread can elevate your holiday meal. Here are some delicious options that complement its sweet flavor.

1. Bold Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and brightness to your table.
2. Bold Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and berries for a healthy and satisfying side.
3. Bold Spinach Salad: A light salad with spinach, nuts, and vinaigrette balances the sweetness of the bread.
4. Bold Sausage Links: Savory sausage links provide a hearty contrast to the sweet bread, making it perfect for brunch.
5. Bold Cheese Platter: Offer an assortment of cheeses to create an enticing cheese board alongside your bread.
6. Bold Holiday Jam Selection: Provide various jams, such as cranberry or fig, for guests to spread on their slices.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to steer clear of.

• Skipping ingredient measurements: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little can affect the bread’s texture and flavor.
• Not preheating the oven: Preheating is essential for proper baking. If you skip this step, your bread may not rise correctly.
• Overmixing the batter: Mixing too much can make the bread tough. Stir just until combined to keep it tender and fluffy.
• Ignoring cooling time: Letting the bread cool completely ensures a better texture. Cutting it too soon can make it gummy.
• Using old ingredients: Fresh ingredients are key for great flavor. Check your baking powder and almond extract for freshness before use.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap or foil to maintain moisture.

Freezing Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Wrap slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag for best results.

Reheating Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat individual slices on low power for 10-15 seconds each.
• Stovetop: Toast slices on a skillet over medium heat until warm and lightly golden.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread gluten-free?

You can substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend that measures cup-for-cup. Check that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Can I use different extracts in this recipe?

Yes! While almond extract gives a lovely flavor, vanilla extract or even peppermint extract can be delightful alternatives.

What can I serve with Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?

This bread pairs well with coffee, tea, or even as part of a festive brunch spread alongside fruit and pastries.

How long does it take to bake Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread?

The baking time is approximately 45-50 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; a toothpick should come out clean when done.

Final Thoughts

Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is not only festive but also versatile enough for various occasions, from breakfast to brunch gatherings. Feel free to customize by adding different types of sprinkles or extracts based on your preferences. Give this fun recipe a try, and enjoy sharing it with family and friends during the holiday season!