Introduction
Welcome to the world of cozy baking! This Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is a delightful treat that brings the spirit of the holidays right into your kitchen. Imagine slicing into a warm loaf that is golden brown on the outside and soft on the inside, bursting with festive colors from the sprinkles. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a sweet snack, this bread is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Let’s dive into how to make this easy and charming loaf!
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup buttermilk
- 1 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup festive sprinkles
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup melted butter
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 1 loaf
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan to ensure an easy release after baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined.
- In a separate bowl, mix the buttermilk, sugar, melted butter, and vanilla extract together vigorously until the sugar has fully dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Gradually pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
- Fold in the festive sprinkles gently to avoid them bleeding into the batter.
- Pour the lovely batter into your prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly across the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean—this is the secret to the perfect loaf!
- Once done, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Notes or Tips
This bread pairs wonderfully with a dollop of butter or a smear of cream cheese. For an extra festive touch, consider drizzling a simple glaze over the top made from powdered sugar and milk. Store any leftovers (if there are any!) in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days to keep it fresh and delightful.
Cooking Techniques
When combining wet and dry ingredients, the key is to stir just enough to moisten the flour. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, whereas folding in the sprinkles with care ensures a lovely pop of color without affecting the texture. Also, always make sure your oven is preheated; this provides a consistent baking temperature that is crucial for achieving that perfect rise and golden crust.
FAQ
Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Absolutely! If you don’t have buttermilk on hand, you can make a quick substitute by mixing 1 cup of milk with 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or white vinegar. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before using.
Can I freeze this bread?
Yes, this buttermilk bread freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. To enjoy, simply let it thaw at room temperature.
Conclusion
Your kitchen will be filled with the warm, inviting aroma of this Christmas Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread as it bakes. Whether you’re serving it up at a festive gathering or enjoying a slice with your morning coffee, this bread is bound to bring joy to your table. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and let the holiday cheer begin! Happy baking!