Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread
This festive quick bread is buttery, tender, and speckled with colorful red and green sprinkles, making it a cheerful treat perfect for holiday mornings, gifting, or brunch spreads. It’s a dessert-style loaf with the ease of a one-bowl batter and the joy of Christmas in every bite.
Equipment
- mixing bowls
- whisk
- rubber spatula or spoon
- 9×5-inch loaf pan
- parchment paper
- wire rack
- toothpick for testing doneness
Ingredients
- 1¾ cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp baking soda
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup unsalted butter, melted and slightly cooled
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup red and green jimmies-style sprinkles
- 1 tbsp coarse sugar (optional topping)
- extra sprinkles (optional topping)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- In a bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.
- In another bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth. Add eggs one at a time, then stir in vanilla and buttermilk.
- Gradually stir the dry mixture into the wet ingredients until just combined. Don’t overmix.
- Gently fold in the sprinkles, being careful not to overmix or cause color bleeding.
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Add optional coarse sugar or extra sprinkles.
- Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Begin checking around minute 40.
- Let the loaf cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack. Cool completely before slicing.
Notes
Use jimmies-style sprinkles to prevent bleeding. Make your own buttermilk by mixing 1 tablespoon lemon juice or vinegar with 1 cup milk. For extra flavor, add white chocolate chips, nuts, or dried cranberries. Can be baked as muffins (18–22 min bake time). A simple glaze of powdered sugar and milk adds a finishing touch.