Name: Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 90 min
Ingredients: ½ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2½ teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; ½ cup sour cream; ¼ cup whole milk; 1¾ cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; ¼ teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon; ⅔ cup Christmas sprinkles (plus more for topping); 1¼ cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Introduction to Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

There's something undeniably special about the holiday season that makes us want to indulge in festive treats, and our Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread perfectly fits the bill. Picture this: a warm, fluffy loaf infused with buttery sweetness and bursting with vibrant Christmas sprinkles. Not only does it taste delicious, but its cheerful appearance brings a smile to everyone's face, making it an ideal centerpiece for holiday gatherings.

Why Funfetti Bread is Perfect for the Holidays

Funfetti bread is not just about flavor; it's about the joyful feelings it invokes. The colorful sprinkles evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminding us of birthdays and celebrations. What better way to celebrate the holidays than baking a loaf that captures this spirit? This dish also lends itself beautifully to sharing; it’s easy to slice and serve, making it perfect for cozy gatherings or as a thoughtful gift for friends and family.

This easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe is incredibly simple to prepare, even for those who might be intimidated by baking. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create something that looks and tastes like it took all day. So, gather your loved ones, crank up the holiday music, and let’s get baking!

Ingredients for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

When it comes to baking the perfect festive treat, having the right ingredients is essential! This easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe is not only delightful but also simple to prepare. Here’s what you’ll need:

Essential ingredients for the bread

½ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup granulated sugar
2½ teaspoons vanilla extract
3 large eggs
½ cup sour cream
¼ cup whole milk
1¾ cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
¼ teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
⅔ cup Christmas sprinkles (plus more for topping)

Gather these ingredients, and you’re well on your way to creating a festive sensation that will impress everyone!

Ingredients for the icing

1¼ cups powdered sugar
2 tablespoons heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

This simple icing will add a sweet finish to your bread, making it truly irresistible! With these carefully selected ingredients, you’ll create a delicious buttery loaf with bursts of colorful sprinkles—perfect for the holiday season! Want even more festive fun? Check out more holiday baking tips here to elevate your festive baking game.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Making this easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe is a delightful way to spread festive cheer in your home. The process is simple, and the result? A beautifully fluffy, colorful bread that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Let’s walk through the preparation step by step.

Preheat the oven and prepare the loaf pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures a uniform temperature when you bake, leading to a perfect rise. While the oven warms, generously spray a 9x5-inch loaf pan with non-stick cooking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal later.

Cream the butter and sugar

In a large mixing bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter and 1 cup of granulated sugar. Use a hand mixer to beat them together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This step is crucial as it introduces air into the butter and sugar, helping your bread rise beautifully. Remember, don’t rush this part – take about 2-3 minutes for best results.

Mix in the eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and milk

Next, crack in 3 large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Toss in 2½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, ½ cup of sour cream, and ¼ cup of whole milk. Mix until everything is well incorporated and smooth. The sour cream adds moisture and a lovely tang to the bread.

Combine the dry ingredients in a separate bowl

In a separate bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon baking powder, ¼ teaspoon baking soda, 1 teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon. Ensuring that your dry ingredients are well combined will help prevent any clumps in your batter.

Fold the dry ingredients into the wet ingredients

Now it’s time to bring it all together! Pour the dry mixture into the wet ingredients and gently stir until just combined. You want to avoid overmixing here, as it can lead to a denser loaf. Look for no visible flour streaks – that’s your cue to stop.

Add the sprinkles and pour into the pan

Carefully fold in ⅔ cup of Christmas sprinkles, being cautious not to overmix. This helps keep the colors vibrant! Pour the mixture into your prepared loaf pan, making sure it’s evenly spread.

Bake and cool the bread

Place the pan in your preheated oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden. Once baked, let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the icing

While your bread cools, whisk together 1¼ cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl to create a smooth icing.

Glaze and serve

Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the icing over the top and smooth it out with a rubber spatula. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle more Christmas sprinkles on top. Allow the glaze to set for a bit, then slice and serve. Enjoy your homemade easy Christmas funfetti bread, and watch as it brings festive joy to everyone around!

Variations on Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Funfetti Bread with Chocolate Chips

Elevate your easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe by adding chocolate chips! Simply fold in ½ to 1 cup of semi-sweet or milk chocolate chips when you incorporate the sprinkles. The richness of the chocolate pairs beautifully with the festive colors, creating a delightful treat that’s perfect for the holidays. Think of it as a joyful surprise within each slice!

A Healthier Twist with Whole Wheat Flour

If you're looking for a healthier option, swap out half of the all-purpose flour for whole wheat flour. This simple change boosts the fiber content, allowing you to enjoy your festive bread guilt-free. The whole wheat adds a nutty flavor that complements the sweetness of the sprinkles and icing. It's an ideal way to indulge without straying too far from your health goals!

Why not try these variations and find your favorite?

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Tips to Ensure Your Bread Rises Well

To achieve that delightful rise in your easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe, make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature before mixing. This helps the butter and sugar cream together better, creating a light and airy texture. Also, be cautious not to overmix when combining the wet and dry ingredients—you want just enough mixing to incorporate everything smoothly. And remember, fresh baking powder is key, so check the expiration date on the package!

How to Avoid the Sprinkles Bleeding Into the Batter

To keep your sprinkles vibrant and prevent them from bleeding into the batter, gently fold them in last, being careful not to overmix. You can also try tossing the sprinkles in a little flour before adding them to the batter, which helps them stay suspended and maintain their color. It’s a simple trick that makes a big difference in keeping your festive loaf looking cheerful!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

How to Serve Warm or Cold

You can enjoy your easy Christmas funfetti bread both warm and cold, depending on your mood! If you prefer that melt-in-your-mouth experience, slice it while still slightly warm and savor the rich, buttery flavors. For a delightful breakfast treat, serve it cold the next day — the flavors deepen and the icing sets beautifully, making each bite just as enjoyable.

Pair with a Hot Cup of Cocoa or Coffee

Elevate your experience by pairing your festive bread with a steaming cup of hot cocoa or a freshly brewed coffee. The rich chocolate or robust coffee perfectly complements the sweet, funfetti flavors, making it a delightful treat for holiday mornings or afternoon gatherings. It’s a fantastic excuse to gather friends and share delicious moments — just imagine the delicious conversations as you all enjoy this festive creation!

For more fun drink ideas, check out this hot chocolate recipe that pairs wonderfully with your bread!

Time Breakdown for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Preparation time

Gathering your ingredients and mixing them up will take about 20 minutes. It's a great time to enjoy some holiday music while you work!

Baking time

The bread needs to bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 60 to 70 minutes. Make sure to keep an eye on it as it bakes to achieve that perfect golden crust.

Total time

All in all, you're looking at around 90 minutes to whip up this delightful easy Christmas Funfetti bread recipe. Perfect for festive gatherings or a cozy night in!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

When baking the Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread, it's helpful to understand its nutritional profile as you indulge in this delightful treat!

Calories
Each slice packs approximately 358 calories, making it a satisfying yet festive snack option perfect for holiday gatherings.

Protein
You’ll find around 1.7 grams of protein per slice. While this isn’t a protein powerhouse, it balances the sweetness and adds a bit of nutritional value.

Sugar Content
With about 22 grams of sugar per slice, this bread is undoubtedly a treat. Enjoy it in moderation, especially during the festive season when sweets are abundant!

This easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe is perfect for sharing and celebrating. Happy baking!

FAQs about Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! The easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can bake the bread up to two days in advance and keep it wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature. This allows the flavors to develop even further, making it a delightful treat for any holiday gathering.

How to store leftover bread?

To store your leftover bread, simply wrap it in plastic wrap or foil and place it in an airtight container. It can last for up to a week on the counter. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread and wrap individual pieces, then store them in a freezer bag for easy access later on!

What can I substitute for sour cream?

If you don’t have sour cream on hand, there are a few great substitutions! You can use plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor or even buttermilk. Both options maintain the moisture and richness that are key to this festive funfetti bread recipe. Happy baking!

Conclusion on Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

This easy Christmas Funfetti bread recipe is the perfect festive treat to share with friends and family. Its colorful sprinkles and delightful flavors will bring holiday cheer to any gathering. Quick to make and a joy to eat, this bread is sure to become a cherished festive tradition. Happy baking!