Delicious Christmas Bread: 10 Simple Steps to Joy

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Christmas Bread is a delightful treat that brings joy and warmth to any holiday gathering. This moist vanilla quick bread not only looks festive with its colorful sprinkles but also tastes divine with a simple powdered sugar glaze. Whether you’re treating yourself or gifting this seasonal bread recipe, it embodies the spirit of the holidays. Let’s create this delicious treat together!

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Bread

This holiday bread is not just visually stunning; it’s a feast for the senses. Here’s why you’ll love it:

Quick and easy to make, perfect for busy holiday schedules.
Moist texture that melts in your mouth.
Festive appearance, making it an ideal gift for friends and family.
Customizable with various add-ins like nuts or dried fruit.
A great breakfast option, especially when paired with coffee or tea.
Filled with love and cheer, enhancing your holiday spirit.

This Christmas sweet bread is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their seasonal baking game!

Ingredients for Christmas Bread

Gather these items:

2 cups all-purpose flour
1.5 tsp baking powder
0.5 tsp baking soda
0.5 tsp salt
0.5 cup butter (softened, 1 stick)
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 tsp vanilla extract (bread)
0.5 tsp almond extract (optional)
1 cup buttermilk
0.5 cup Christmas colored sprinkles (nonpareils or jimmies)
1.5 cups powdered sugar
3-4 tbsp milk or cream
0.5 tsp vanilla extract (glaze)
2 tbsp Christmas sprinkles (topping)

How to Make Christmas Bread Step-by-Step

Step 1: Grease and line a 9×5 pan; preheat oven to 350°F.
Step 2: Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
Step 3: Beat butter and sugar in a bowl until fluffy.
Step 4: Beat in eggs one at a time; mix in both extracts.
Step 5: Add the dry ingredients and buttermilk alternately, ending with flour.
Step 6: Gently fold in sprinkles without overmixing.
Step 7: Bake for 50–60 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
Step 8: Cool for 15 minutes in the pan, then transfer to a wire rack.
Step 9: Whisk powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla until pourable.
Step 10: Pour glaze over bread and add sprinkles; let set for 15 minutes.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Christmas Bread

Keep these in mind:

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Don’t overmix when adding sprinkles; this keeps the colors vibrant.
If you prefer a gluten-free Christmas bread, substitute with a gluten-free flour blend.

Best Ways to Serve Christmas Bread

This festive loaf is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Serve it warm with a pat of butter or a side of fresh fruit. It’s also an excellent choice for holiday gift-giving; wrap it in festive paper for a delightful surprise!

How to Store and Reheat Christmas Bread

To store, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and keep it at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze it. To reheat, simply pop a slice in the microwave for a few seconds or enjoy it cold!

Frequently Asked Questions About Christmas Bread

What’s the secret to perfect Christmas Bread?

The secret lies in the quality of ingredients. Use fresh eggs and good quality vanilla extract for the best flavor. Also, ensure not to overmix the batter; this helps maintain a tender crumb.

Can I make Christmas Bread ahead of time?

Yes! You can bake it a day in advance and store it. Just let it cool completely, wrap it well, and keep it at room temperature. It will taste just as fresh the next day.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Christmas Bread?

Avoid common pitfalls by measuring flour correctly and not skipping the buttermilk. This ensures the bread remains moist and flavorful. Also, check for doneness with a toothpick to prevent under or overbaking.

Variations of Christmas Bread You Can Try

Here are some delicious variations:

Incorporate dried fruits like cranberries or apricots for a traditional Christmas bread.
Add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch.
Experiment with spices to create a spiced Christmas bread by adding cinnamon or nutmeg.
For a healthier twist, consider a Christmas bread with fruits or a gluten-free version.