Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread Recipe

This Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is the perfect way to add a touch of festive magic to your holiday baking. It’s a simple yet delightful recipe, combining the rich flavors of buttermilk with a burst of colorful sprinkles, making it ideal for family gatherings, gifting, or enjoying with a cup of tea during the holiday season. The tender crumb of the bread, along with the sweetness of the glaze, creates a perfect balance. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just getting into the holiday spirit, this recipe is sure to become a new tradition!

Ingredients for Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

Before diving into the preparation, let’s review the ingredients you’ll need. Make sure you gather everything ahead of time to make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Bread Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour (240g)
• 1 cup sugar (200g)
• 1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1 cup buttermilk (240ml)
• 1 large egg, lightly beaten
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter (115g), melted and cooled
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/2 cup sprinkles (preferably holiday-themed)

Glaze Ingredients:

• 2 cups powdered sugar (240g), sifted
• 3 tablespoons buttermilk, plus more as needed
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup
• Nonpareils (to decorate)

this RECIPE

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

To create this festive bread, make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• 9×5 inch aluminum loaf pan
• Parchment paper for lining
• Mixing bowls (one large, one small)
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula
• Wire cooling rack
• Sifter for powdered sugar
• Spoon for glazing

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread

1. Preparing the Oven and Pan

Start by moving your oven rack to the upper third position and preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even baking without over-browning the top. Line a 9×5 inch aluminum loaf pan with parchment paper, allowing for easy removal of the bread after baking.

2. Mixing the Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 cup of sugar, 1 1/2 teaspoons of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of baking soda, and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt. This helps distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the flour.

3. Combining the Wet Ingredients

In a smaller bowl, whisk together 1 large egg, 1 cup of buttermilk, 1/2 cup of melted and cooled butter, and 1/2 teaspoon of almond extract. The almond extract gives the bread a subtle, festive flavor that complements the sweetness of the sprinkles.

4. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients

Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients. Mix gently using a spatula or wooden spoon until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the bread tough. The batter should be slightly lumpy, and that’s okay!

5. Folding in the Sprinkles

Carefully fold in 1/2 cup of sprinkles. Be gentle during this process to avoid the sprinkles bleeding too much color into the batter.

6. Baking the Bread

Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The buttermilk gives this bread a slightly dense texture, so make sure to check the center for doneness.

7. Cooling the Bread

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Since this is a dense bread, it may take 1-2 hours to cool thoroughly. Do not attempt to glaze the bread until it has cooled completely, as the glaze will not set properly on a warm surface.

How to Make the Buttermilk Glaze

1. Preparing the Glaze

In a medium bowl, whisk together 2 cups of sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons of buttermilk, and 1 tablespoon of light corn syrup. If the glaze seems too thick, gradually add more buttermilk (a teaspoon at a time) until you achieve a thick yet pourable consistency. The corn syrup gives the glaze a nice sheen and helps it set smoothly on the bread.

2. Glazing the Bread

Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, allowing it to run down the sides for a beautiful finish. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle nonpareils or extra holiday-themed sprinkles over the wet glaze. Let the glaze set for about 15 minutes before slicing.

Serving Suggestions for Buttermilk Bread

This Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is best served slightly warm or at room temperature. It pairs beautifully with a cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate—perfect for a cozy holiday breakfast or as a snack between meals. You can slice the bread thick and serve it with a pat of butter or enjoy it on its own, as the glaze provides just the right amount of sweetness.

Recipe Tips for Perfect Buttermilk Bread

• Don’t overmix: Overmixing the batter can lead to a dense and chewy bread. Mix until the ingredients are just combined to ensure a tender crumb.
• Use fresh buttermilk: The acidity in buttermilk helps the bread rise and contributes to its moist texture. If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by adding 1 tablespoon of lemon juice or vinegar to 1 cup of milk.
• Cool completely before glazing: Be patient and allow the bread to cool fully. Glazing a warm bread can cause the glaze to melt and run off too quickly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overbaking: Keep a close eye on your bread during the last 5 minutes of baking. If overbaked, the bread can dry out. Test the center with a toothpick to check for doneness.
• Sprinkle bleeding: Fold the sprinkles in gently to avoid the colors running too much into the batter. Also, avoid using sprinkles that melt too easily in the heat.

Storage Tips for Buttermilk Bread

If you have any leftovers (which might be rare!), store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. To keep the bread fresh for longer, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. You can also freeze the bread by wrapping it in plastic wrap and foil, then storing it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it at room temperature and enjoy!

Recipe Variations and Customizations

• Flavor variations: Swap the almond extract for vanilla extract or add a touch of cinnamon for a warmer, spiced flavor.
• Add-ins: You can add 1/4 cup of chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even mini chocolate chips to the batter for extra flavor and texture.
• Glaze alternatives: If you prefer a less sweet glaze, reduce the powdered sugar to 1 1/2 cups and increase the buttermilk slightly for a thinner drizzle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular milk instead of buttermilk?
Yes, buttermilk provides a unique tang and moistness. If you don’t have it, you can make your own by adding 1 tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 1 cup of milk and letting it sit for 5 minutes.

Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the bread a day in advance and store it in an airtight container. Add the glaze just before serving for the freshest presentation.

Can I use different types of sprinkles?
Yes, feel free to use any type of sprinkles you like, but try to stick with nonpareils or sprinkles that won’t melt during baking.

Conclusion

This Sprinkle Buttermilk Bread is not only easy to make but also perfect for the holiday season. Its colorful, festive sprinkles and sweet buttermilk glaze make it a cheerful addition to any table. Whether you’re baking for a holiday gathering, gifting to friends, or simply indulging in a seasonal treat, this bread will surely impress. The combination of rich buttermilk and almond extract offers a delightful flavor, while the sprinkles add a playful twist.

Make sure to follow the recipe tips, avoid common mistakes, and customize it to suit your preferences. Enjoy this delicious bread with your loved ones, and don’t hesitate to experiment with variations to make it your own!

If you try this recipe, please let me know how it turned out for you! Don’t forget to share the recipe with your friends, and make sure to subscribe to the blog for more holiday baking ideas and recipes!

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