Name: Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup sugar; 1.5 teaspoons baking powder; 0.5 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 1 cup buttermilk; 1 large egg lightly beaten; 0.5 cup unsalted butter melted and cooled; 0.5 teaspoon almond extract; 0.5 cup sprinkles; 2 cups powdered sugar sifted; 3 tablespoons buttermilk plus more as needed; 1 tablespoon light corn syrup; Nonpareils

Introduction to Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

What’s the story behind Christmas bread?

As the holiday season approaches, the aroma of baking bread fills homes, evoking warmth and nostalgia. Christmas bread has a rich history, often woven into family traditions and celebrations. Various cultures have unique versions, from the Italian Panettone to the German Stollen, each bringing a special touch to festive gatherings. This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread captures that essence while adding a delightful twist of colorful sprinkles, perfect for creating a visual feast alongside its delicious flavor.

Bread-making is not just about the ingredients; it’s an activity that brings joy and connection. Imagine mixing the batter, letting the sweet scent permeate your kitchen as it bakes, and finally gathering with loved ones to share a slice. This particular recipe is not only easy to make but also adaptable, inviting you to experiment with different flavors or sprinkles that match your holiday spirit.

Whether it's served at breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat throughout the day, this buttermilk bread is sure to spread cheer. So roll up your sleeves and prepare to create a mouthwatering centerpiece that can be enjoyed by everyone during this joyful time of year. If you’re looking for more holiday bread ideas, check out the The Culture Trip for inspiration!

Ingredients for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Essential Ingredients for the Bread

Creating the perfect Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need for the beloved bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your loaf, providing that wonderful structure.
1 cup sugar: Sweetness is key, and sugar makes it extra delightful!
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder: This helps the bread rise to perfection.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Along with baking powder, this ensures a fluffy texture.
1 teaspoon kosher salt: Just a touch balances the sweetness and enhances flavor.
1 cup buttermilk: This adds moisture and a delightful tang.
1 large egg: Beaten for richness and stability.
½ cup unsalted butter: Melted and cooled, it brings richness to the bread.
½ teaspoon almond extract: A hint of flavor that pairs beautifully with sweetness.
½ cup sprinkles: The festive touch that makes it oh-so-cheerful!

Items Needed for the Glaze

To crown your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, a delicious glaze is essential. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the glaze perfectly.
3 tablespoons buttermilk: Adds creaminess and makes the glaze pourable.
1 tablespoon light corn syrup: This gives the glaze a delightful shine.
Nonpareils: These colorful little sprinkles add a final festive touch.

With these ingredients in hand, you’re all set to create a holiday favorite! If you have any questions, feel free to reach out. Happy baking!

Step-by-step preparation of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Making your own Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is not only rewarding but also fills your kitchen with delightful aromas that announce the holiday season. Follow this simple step-by-step guide to create a tender, festive bread that’s perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings.

Gather your ingredients

Start by collecting all necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the bread:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 ½ 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 sprinkles (preferably festive colors)

For the glaze:

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

Preheat the oven and prepare your loaf pan

Before diving into mixing, move your oven rack to the upper third and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is crucial for achieving that golden crust. While the oven heats up, line your 9x5 inch aluminum loaf pan with parchment paper, making it easier to remove the bread later!

Combine dry ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and kosher salt. Properly whisking not only ensures even distribution but also helps to aerate the mixture. This is where the magic begins to unfold!

Mix up the wet ingredients

In a separate, smaller bowl, mix your wet ingredients: the beaten egg, buttermilk, melted butter, and almond extract. Whisk them together until thoroughly combined. The almond extract adds a lovely flavor layer; feel free to experiment with other extracts too!

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Now for the fun part! Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients and mix gently just until combined. Remember, overmixing can lead to a dense bread rather than a fluffy loaf, so be mindful here.

Add the festive sprinkles

Next, fold in those cheerful sprinkles. This step is where your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread gets its charm! Each slice will be a burst of festive color, sure to bring smiles around the breakfast table.

Bake the bread

Transfer the batter to your prepared loaf pan and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 45-50 minutes, or until the center is set and a toothpick comes out clean. Your kitchen will smell amazing during this time!

Cool and prepare the glaze

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This can take 1-2 hours—this step is key for the perfect texture.

While it cools, whisk together your glaze ingredients in a bowl, adjusting the buttermilk as necessary for a thick yet pourable consistency.

Glaze the bread and add final touches

Once the bread has fully cooled, spoon the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip down the sides. Finish with a sprinkle of nonpareils for that festive touch!

Now your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is ready to serve and impress your guests. Enjoy each slice, and let this delightful bread become a new holiday staple in your home!

Variations on Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

When it comes to making your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread even more delightful, the possibilities are endless!

Adding Nuts or Chocolate Chips

Consider folding in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for a lovely crunch, or why not mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips? The sweetness of chocolate pairs beautifully with the festive flavors, adding a touch of indulgence to your bread. Both options take your recipe from tasty to extraordinary.

Seasonal Flavors: Peppermint or Gingerbread

For a holiday twist, try incorporating seasonal spices or flavors. Adding a teaspoon of peppermint extract will infuse your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread with a refreshing taste, while a hint of gingerbread spice creates a cozy, warm aroma. You could even swap out a portion of your flour for gingerbread spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The result? A mouthwatering loaf that captures the spirit of the season.

Ready to experiment? Let your creativity shine!

Cooking tips and notes for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

How to achieve the perfect texture

For a light and fluffy Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread, using room-temperature ingredients, especially the buttermilk and egg, can make a world of difference. Be careful not to overmix your batter; gently combine the wet and dry ingredients just until moistened. This helps retain air bubbles for that delightful rise. If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding a touch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a seasonal twist!

Avoiding common baking mistakes

One common pitfall is the mismeasurement of baking powder and soda; too much can lead to a bread that rises quickly but collapses. Ensure your flour is spooned and leveled rather than packed into the measuring cup. Also, avoid opening the oven door too soon—you want that beautiful rise! Lastly, allowing the bread to cool in the pan just a bit ensures it doesn’t stick. For helpful tips, check out resources from baking experts like King Arthur Baking.

Serving suggestions for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Breakfast or brunch ideas

Start your day with a slice of Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread alongside your favorite breakfast options. Pair it with a warm cup of coffee or a festive herbal tea. For a heartier brunch, serve it alongside scrambled eggs and Turkey Bacon or Chicken Ham for a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors. Adding a fruit salad can also brighten up your plate and bring a burst of freshness.

Creative ways to serve with toppings

Elevate your Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread by experimenting with toppings. Try spreading a thin layer of cream cheese or mascarpone for a rich, tangy contrast. A drizzle of honey or maple syrup can add extra sweetness, making each bite more indulgent. For a festive touch, consider adding seasonal toppings like candied cranberries or fresh citrus zest. You can get creative with nut butters or yogurt for a nutritious twist!

With these serving suggestions, your festive bread is sure to become a beloved holiday tradition. Happy baking!

Time Breakdown for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Preparation Time
Gather your ingredients and utensils; it takes just 10 minutes to whip everything into shape. Prepping everything in advance makes the process enjoyable, leaving you less stressed as you head into baking.

Baking Time
The Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread needs about 45 minutes to bake to perfection. Keep an eye on it as it rises and turns golden brown—your kitchen will smell divine!

Total Time
In just 55 minutes, you can have this festive bread ready for your holiday brunch table. Who can resist a quick and delicious treat that spreads joy and cheer? If you want to learn more about bread baking, check out this helpful guide.

Christmas is the perfect time for sharing, and this bread is not only delightful to eat but a great addition to gift baskets for friends and loved ones. Happy baking!

Nutritional Facts for Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Calories

With approximately 511 calories per slice, the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a delightful treat that’s perfect for holiday gatherings.

Sugar Content

This festive quick bread packs a sweet punch with about 67 grams of sugar in total. With sprinkles and a sugary glaze, it’s a celebratory indulgence to enjoy sparingly.

Key Nutrients

This bread is not just about the sweetness! Key nutritional highlights include:

Carbohydrates: 92g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 14g (of which 9g is saturated fat)
Calcium: 86mg
Iron: 2mg

The Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a flavorful way to treat yourself and your loved ones. While it may be rich in sugar, it easily brightens up any holiday breakfast or brunch! Want to make it even healthier? Consider adding some chopped nuts or a side of fresh fruit to balance it out.

Want more insights? Check out the USDA Food Database for detailed nutrient breakdowns and healthy swaps.

FAQ about Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! The Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is perfect for making ahead of time. You can bake it a day or two in advance, letting the flavors meld beautifully. Just remember to store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

What’s the best way to store leftover bread?

To keep your leftover Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread deliciously moist, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place it in an airtight container. For longer storage, you can even freeze it! Just thaw it at room temperature before enjoying.

How can I customize the sprinkles?

The fun part about this bread is that you can easily tailor the sprinkles to match any holiday or occasion! Experiment with different colors or shapes, like stars for New Year or hearts for Valentine’s Day. Not a fan of sprinkles? Swap them out for chopped nuts or dried fruits for a delightful twist!

For more inspiration, check out this article on fun baking ideas.

Conclusion on Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

In summary, the Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a delightful addition to your holiday spreads. Its tender texture and vibrant sprinkles bring a festive spirit to breakfast or brunch. Easy to make and utterly delicious, this quick bread is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. So why wait? Bake a loaf today and share the joy!