Name: Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 0.5 cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup granulated sugar; 2.5 teaspoons vanilla extract; 3 large eggs; 0.5 cup sour cream; 0.25 cup whole milk; 1.75 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 0.25 teaspoon baking soda; 1 teaspoon salt; 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 0.67 cup Christmas sprinkles (plus more for topping); 1.25 cups powdered sugar; 2 tablespoons heavy cream; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Introduction to Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe

There's something truly special about homemade Christmas treats. They not only fill your kitchen with delightful aromas but also bring a personal touch to the holiday season. When you bake your own goodies, you infuse them with love, care, and a sprinkle of nostalgia. Imagine sharing your warm and colorful easy Christmas funfetti bread with friends and family, creating cherished memories that last a lifetime.

Why opt for store-bought when you can craft something so much more meaningful? A recent study by the National Association of Federal Credit Unions found that nearly 70% of people believe homemade gifts and treats are often more appreciated than their commercial counterparts. This is especially true during the holidays when time spent together is priceless.

Our Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe highlights this spirit perfectly. Featuring festive sprinkles and a sweet vanilla glaze, it’s a culinary canvas waiting to reflect your creativity and perhaps even your unique holiday traditions. So, let’s gather our ingredients and embrace the joy of baking, because nothing says “Merry Christmas” quite like a homemade loaf that’s bursting with colors and flavors!

To get started, check out our full recipe below and discover the magic of making holiday memories through cooking.

Ingredients for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Essential ingredients

Creating this delightful easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe starts with a few essential ingredients that come together to create a moist and flavorful loaf. Here’s what you'll need:

Unsalted butter: ½ cup, softened for that rich texture
Granulated sugar: 1 cup, for sweetness
Vanilla extract: 2½ teaspoons, because it makes everything better
Large eggs: 3 for binding and moisture
Sour cream: ½ cup adds richness and tang
Whole milk: ¼ cup, which helps create a tender crumb
All-purpose flour: 1¾ cups, the base of our bread
Baking powder and baking soda: for leavening
Salt and ground cinnamon: to enhance the flavors
Christmas sprinkles: ⅔ cup, plus extra for topping!

Optional ingredients for customization

Feel free to get creative with your funfetti bread! You might consider adding:

Chopped nuts: like walnuts or pecans for crunch
Dried fruit: such as cranberries or cherries for a festive twist
Zest of an orange or lemon: for a bright, refreshing flavor
Chocolate chips: because why not add some chocolate?

Personalizing your easy Christmas funfetti bread is a wonderful way to make it your own! If you’d like to explore more ideas, check out resources from the Baker's Association to inspire your baking journey.

Step-by-Step Preparation of Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Making your own easy Christmas funfetti bread is not just a delightful baking project; it's also a wonderful way to fill your home with the sweet scent of the holidays! Here’s how to whip up this festive treat step-by-step.

Preheat the oven and prepare your loaf pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it's heating, grab a 9x5-inch loaf pan and give it a good spritz with non-stick cooking spray. This will ensure your delicious bread slides out easily once it's baked.

Cream together butter and sugar

In a large bowl, combine ½ cup of softened unsalted butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer, cream these together until the mixture becomes light and fluffy. This crucial step creates the right texture for your bread, so don't rush it!

Add eggs, vanilla, sour cream, and milk

Next, add in 3 large eggs, 2½ teaspoons of vanilla extract, ½ cup of sour cream, and ¼ cup of whole milk. Mix these together until just combined. Take a moment to enjoy the sweet aroma—this is the scent of Christmas magic!

Mix dry ingredients in a separate bowl

In another bowl, whisk together 1¾ cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking powder, ¼ teaspoon of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mixing the dry ingredients separately helps ensure even distribution of the leavening agents.

Combine wet and dry ingredients

Once your dry ingredients are mixed, fold them into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—aim for no flour streaks but avoid overmixing, as this could lead to a dense texture. It's all about that perfect balance!

Fold in the Christmas sprinkles

Now, for the fun part! Carefully fold in ⅔ cup of your favorite Christmas sprinkles. This adds that festive flair and a burst of color to your loaf. Just be gentle to keep those sprinkles bright and not bleeding into the batter.

Bake the bread

Pour the mixture into your prepared loaf pan and spread it out evenly. Pop it in the oven and bake for 60 to 70 minutes. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean when it's ready. Let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Prepare the vanilla glaze

While your bread is cooling, whisk together 1¼ cups of powdered sugar, 2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract in a small bowl. This glaze is the finishing touch that enhances the funfetti flair!

Glaze the bread and add sprinkles

Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the top and smooth it out with a rubber spatula. For an extra festive touch, sprinkle on more Christmas sprinkles! Now your easy Christmas funfetti bread is ready to slice and share.

This delightful treat is perfect for holiday gatherings or as a sweet surprise for yourself. Happy baking!

Variations on Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Transform your easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe into delightful variations that cater to every flavor preference.

Chocolate Funfetti Bread

For a richer twist, consider making chocolate funfetti bread. Simply substitute half of the all-purpose flour with cocoa powder and add chocolate chips into the mix. The result? An irresistible blend of vanilla and chocolate, creating a festive treat that's perfect for chocolate lovers. Top with a chocolate glaze for an extra decadent finish!

Fruit-Based Funfetti Bread

If you're looking for a lighter option, try fruit-based funfetti bread by incorporating mashed bananas or applesauce into the batter. This not only adds natural sweetness but also keeps the bread moist. You can mix in dried fruits or fresh berries for added flavor and texture. For a tropical twist, consider adding coconut flakes and pineapple bits!

These variations are sure to spark joy and keep your holiday baking exciting!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Adjusting Baking Time for Different Ovens

Every oven is unique, so you may need to adjust the baking time for this easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe. Start checking for doneness around the 60-minute mark, using a toothpick to test the center. If it comes out clean, your bread is ready. If not, give it an additional 5–10 minutes. If the top is browning too quickly, gently cover it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.

Tips for Perfect Glaze Consistency

Achieving the perfect glaze for your festive bread can elevate the holiday spirit! For a smooth consistency, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until it resembles a thick syrup. If it's too runny, add more powdered sugar; if too thick, a splash of cream will do the trick. Drizzle it over your cooled bread and watch the sprinkles dance!

Serving Suggestions for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Best pairings with coffee or tea
Enhance your easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe by pairing it with a steaming cup of coffee or a fragrant herbal tea. The sweet, vibrant flavors of the bread truly shine when enjoyed alongside a classic vanilla latte or a soothing chamomile tea. For an extra treat, try a festive peppermint mocha—its minty notes will perfectly complement the joyful sprinkles!

Creative ways to serve at gatherings
Spice up your holiday gatherings by serving slices of this delightful bread on a colorful platter or in a festive holiday basket. Consider adding a vibrant fruit salad or seasonal berries as accompaniments. You can also turn it into a holiday brunch centerpiece by toasting slices and topping them with turkey bacon, homemade whipped cream, or a dollop of spiced cream cheese. Each bite is sure to bring smiles to your guests!

Time Breakdown for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Preparation Time

The first step in creating this festive treat will only take about 10 minutes. Gather your ingredients and mix your wet components with the dry ones. This quick prep allows you to dive straight into the holiday spirit!

Baking Time

Once you've prepped your batter, pop it in the oven for around 60 to 70 minutes. The aroma of vanilla and cinnamon will begin to fill your kitchen, making the anticipation all the sweeter.

Cooling and Glazing Time

After baking, let your loaf cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Give it another 15 to 20 minutes to cool completely before glazing. Trust me, the wait makes the final product even more delicious!

This easy Christmas Funfetti Bread recipe promises a delightful treat that brings joy to your holiday gatherings!

Nutritional Facts for Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Calories

This delightful Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe packs about 3586 calories per loaf, making it a rich treat for holiday celebrations. Perfect for sharing at gatherings, you can easily slice it into smaller servings for a guilt-free indulgence.

Protein

With 45 grams of protein, this bread offers a decent boost to your festive snacks. Combine it with a glass of milk or a scoop of yogurt for a balanced treat that'll keep you energized throughout the holiday festivities.

Sugar Content

It’s important to note that this recipe has a sugar content of 354 grams, thanks to the delicious sprinkles and sweet glaze. Enjoy it in moderation and pair it with savory dishes to balance the sweetness while you celebrate the season with loved ones.

For more detailed nutritional information, you can refer to resources like the USDA FoodData Central for a deeper dive into the ingredients!

FAQs about Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! This easy Christmas Funfetti bread recipe is perfect for baking ahead of schedule. You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just remember to bring it back to room temperature before baking. Alternatively, bake the bread and let it cool completely. It can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days.

What should I do if my bread is too dense?

If your bread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using too much flour. For a lighter loaf, be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients. Always spoon the flour into your measuring cup rather than scooping. If you find yourself with a dense loaf, don’t fret! You can always enjoy it as a delightful French toast.

How can I store leftover bread?

Store your leftover loaf in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. Slice the bread, wrap individual pieces tightly in plastic wrap, and place them in a freezer bag. This way, you can enjoy a slice whenever the holiday spirit strikes!

For more baking tips and festive ideas, check out resources like King Arthur Baking and Taste of Home.

Conclusion on Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

This easy Christmas funfetti bread recipe is a delightful way to spread joy during the holiday season. With its bright sprinkles and irresistible glaze, every slice feels like a celebration. Perfect for gifting or adding to your festive dessert table, it's sure to become a cherished tradition for years to come!