Festive Christmas Bread

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The holiday season always brings out the baker in me. There’s something magical about filling the kitchen with the sweet scent of vanilla, warm sugar, and nostalgia. This Festive Christmas Bread is my go-to treat when I want to capture all the cheer of the season in one loaf. With its soft, fluffy texture and bursts of red and green sprinkles, it’s impossible not to smile when you slice into it. Topped with a sweet vanilla glaze and more sprinkles, it’s a dessert, breakfast, and centerpiece all in one.

I first made this bread on a snowy December evening, and since then, it’s become a staple on my holiday table. Kids love the bright colors, adults appreciate the subtle sweetness, and everyone asks for a second slice. Whether you’re hosting brunch, packing edible gifts, or just want something cozy with your cup of coffee, this festive bread checks all the boxes.

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Why You’ll Love This Festive Christmas Bread

This bread isn’t just visually delightful — it’s incredibly delicious and versatile too. It’s tender with a rich, buttery crumb that stays moist for days. The colorful sprinkles add not just joy but a light crunch that pairs perfectly with the smooth vanilla glaze. It’s simple enough for novice bakers, yet pretty enough to wow guests.

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What Kind of Sprinkles Should I Use?

Not all sprinkles are created equal. For this recipe, I recommend using jimmies or nonpareils in festive red, green, and white. Nonpareils (those tiny round balls) look stunning, but they can bleed color if overmixed, so gently fold them in at the end. Avoid sugar crystals, as they dissolve into the batter and won’t provide the same pop of color or texture.

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Options for Substitutions

If you want to switch things up, here are a few fun substitutions:

• Greek Yogurt or Sour Cream: Swap one for the other for the same moisture and tang.
• Gluten-Free Flour Blend: Works well if you’re baking for someone with gluten sensitivity—just ensure it’s a 1:1 substitute.
• Almond Extract: Add a touch alongside vanilla for a nuttier, more festive aroma.
• Coconut Oil: Can replace butter for a dairy-free version, though the flavor will be slightly different.
• Natural Food Coloring Sprinkles: Great if you’re avoiding artificial dyes.

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Ingredients for this Festive Christmas Bread

Each ingredient in this recipe brings a purpose, contributing to the bread’s texture, flavor, and festive appearance.

• All-purpose flour: Forms the structure and base of the bread, giving it a soft and tender crumb.
• Granulated sugar: Adds the right level of sweetness without overpowering the flavors.
• Baking powder: Helps the bread rise, ensuring a light and fluffy loaf.
• Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
• Eggs: Bind the ingredients together while providing richness and structure.
• Unsalted butter: Adds a rich, buttery flavor and keeps the crumb moist.
• Whole milk: Helps in creating a soft texture and balances the richness of the batter.
• Vanilla extract: Adds warmth and aroma that pairs beautifully with the sprinkles.
• Sour cream: Keeps the bread incredibly moist and adds a subtle tang.
• Red and green nonpareil sprinkles: The stars of the show—add festive color and a light crunch.
• Powdered sugar: Used in the glaze for a smooth, sweet finish.
• Heavy cream or milk (for glaze): Helps thin the glaze to the perfect drizzling consistency.
• Vanilla extract (for glaze): Adds flavor and ties everything together.

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Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray, and line it with parchment paper if you want an easier release. This step sets the foundation for a well-baked loaf that doesn’t stick.

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Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt. This ensures that your leavening is evenly distributed, which is key for a consistent rise.

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Step 3: Cream the Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the butter and granulated sugar together using a hand mixer or stand mixer until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 2–3 minutes. This process incorporates air into the batter for a light crumb.

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Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each one is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then add the vanilla extract and mix until smooth. This step builds the flavor base and structure.

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Step 5: Add Sour Cream and Milk

Gently mix in the sour cream and milk until just combined. These two ingredients keep the bread moist and tender. Be careful not to overmix at this stage.

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Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients, mixing slowly until just combined. Overmixing here can lead to a dense bread, so go gently.

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Step 7: Fold in the Sprinkles

Carefully fold in the red and green sprinkles with a spatula. Don’t over-stir or the colors may bleed into the batter. You want beautiful pops of color throughout the bread.

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Step 8: Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack.

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Step 9: Make the Glaze

While the bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk or cream, and vanilla extract until smooth. The glaze should be thick but pourable. Adjust the consistency with more liquid or sugar as needed.

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Step 10: Glaze and Decorate

Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze over the top and immediately sprinkle with more red and green nonpareils for that extra festive touch. Let the glaze set before slicing.

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How Long to Prepare the Festive Christmas Bread

Prep Time: Preparing this festive loaf takes about 20 minutes. That includes measuring ingredients, mixing the batter, and carefully folding in the sprinkles. If you’re glazing and decorating post-bake, add another 5–10 minutes.

Baking Time: The bread typically bakes in 50–60 minutes at 350°F. Keep an eye on it around the 50-minute mark. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

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Tips for Perfect Festive Christmas Bread

• Bring all ingredients to room temperature before starting for a smoother batter.
• Don’t overmix after adding flour—gentle folding keeps the loaf tender.
• Use parchment paper to line the loaf pan for easy removal.
• Allow the bread to cool fully before glazing, or the glaze will melt.
• Store sprinkles in a cool, dry place before using to prevent bleeding.

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Watch Out for These Mistakes While Cooking

• Using too many sprinkles: It can overload the batter and make it dense.
• Mixing sprinkles too early: The colors may bleed—fold them in at the very end.
• Overbaking: This can dry out the loaf. Use a timer and check with a toothpick.
• Adding glaze too soon: It will melt and run off—wait until the loaf is cool.
• Skipping the cooling time: The crumb sets as it cools, so don’t rush to slice it.

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What to Serve With Festive Christmas Bread?

1. Hot Chocolate

Creamy, rich cocoa complements the sweet and buttery notes of the bread.

2. Spiced Apple Cider

A warm, cinnamon-kissed cider pairs beautifully with the vanilla glaze and festive flavor.

3. Scrambled Eggs or Quiche

Balance the sweetness with a savory side for a perfect holiday brunch.

4. Fresh Berries

A tart fruit platter brings freshness and color contrast to your plate.

5. Holiday Coffee or Latte

Flavored coffees like peppermint mocha or gingerbread latte enhance the cozy experience.

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Storage Instructions

Room Temperature: Store leftover bread tightly wrapped or in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. Keep away from direct sunlight or heat sources.

Refrigerator: While not necessary, you can refrigerate it to extend freshness up to 5 days. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

Freezing: This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw at room temperature, and glaze it after thawing for best results.

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Estimated Nutrition

(Per slice, based on 10 servings)

• Calories: ~280
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Sugar: 22g
• Protein: 4g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sodium: 180mg

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this bread in advance?

Absolutely. It actually tastes better the next day as the flavors settle. You can bake it a day ahead and glaze it before serving.

Can I use different colored sprinkles for other holidays?

Yes! Switch to pastel for Easter, orange and black for Halloween, or red and pink for Valentine’s Day.

Can I make this recipe into muffins?

Definitely. Divide the batter into a muffin tin and bake for 18–22 minutes. Keep an eye on them.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Very! Kids love the colorful sprinkles, and it’s simple enough for them to help prepare.

Can I add nuts or dried fruits?

Yes, but use them in moderation so they don’t overpower the light texture. Chopped pecans or dried cranberries work well.

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Conclusion

Festive Christmas Bread is a cheerful, crowd-pleasing bake that brings joy to any holiday table. Whether you’re sharing it with family over breakfast or wrapping it up as a thoughtful gift, it’s guaranteed to make spirits bright. With its soft, buttery crumb, sweet glaze, and colorful sprinkles, this loaf is a beautiful blend of fun and flavor. A little effort delivers big festive payoff—and that’s exactly what holiday baking should be about.

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