The aroma of freshly baked bread is often the perfect prelude to holiday cheer. As I prepared my kitchen for the festive season, I stumbled upon the delightful idea of Christmas Funfetti Bread—a quick bread that transforms any gathering into a celebration. This recipe is a game-changer, making it possible to create a stunning dessert without getting lost in elaborate preparations. With just a handful of ingredients and no need to wait for dough to rise, you can whip up this sweet, colorful treat in no time. Not only does this bread capture the spirit of the holidays with its warm vanilla and cinnamon notes, but it also doubles as a crowd-pleaser that kids and adults alike will adore! Curious about how to make this easy seasonal delight? Let me share my step-by-step guide to baking your very own Christmas Funfetti Bread, complete with a luscious vanilla glaze that adds just the right finishing touch.
Why is Christmas Funfetti Bread a must-try?
Festive Flair: Each slice bursts with color from holiday sprinkles, making it a stunning centerpiece for any gathering.
Effortless Baking: This quick bread recipe eliminates the wait for rising, allowing you to enjoy homemade goodness in a fraction of the time.
Versatile Enjoyment: Pair it with warm beverages like coffee or hot chocolate for the coziest of holiday moments.
Mouthwatering Aroma: The combination of vanilla and cinnamon creates a heavenly fragrance that will fill your kitchen with holiday spirit!
For more delightful variations, check out this Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread or indulge in some rich, comforting Chocolate Banana Bread.
Christmas Funfetti Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- Unsalted Butter (½ cup) – Adds richness and moisture; you can substitute with margarine or coconut oil for a dairy-free version.
- Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Provides sweetness and structure; using brown sugar can give a deeper flavor.
- Vanilla Extract (2½ teaspoons) – Enhances the flavor profile; opt for imitation vanilla for a budget-friendly option.
- Large Eggs (3) – Binds the ingredients together and adds moisture; flax eggs are a great vegan alternative.
- Sour Cream (½ cup) – Contributes to moisture and tenderness; Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.
- Whole Milk (¼ cup) – Complements the creaminess; feel free to swap this with almond or soy milk according to your preference.
- All-Purpose Flour (1¾ cups) – Provides structure; for a gluten-free option, use a 1:1 baking flour.
- Baking Powder (1 teaspoon) – Acts as a leavening agent; ensure it’s fresh for optimal rising.
- Baking Soda (¼ teaspoon) – Enhances browning and texture.
- Salt (1 teaspoon) – Balances out the sweetness; consider using kosher salt for a coarser texture.
- Ground Cinnamon (½ teaspoon) – Adds warmth and a hint of holiday flavor; can be omitted if desired.
- Christmas Sprinkles (⅔ cup + extra for topping) – Brings festive flair to the bread; feel free to use any colorful sprinkles you have on hand.
For the Glaze
- Powdered Sugar (1 cup) – Creates a sweet topping that enhances the festive appearance.
- Heavy Cream (2 tablespoons) – Adds a creamy richness to the glaze; half-and-half can be used for a lighter version.
- Vanilla Extract (1 teaspoon) – Complements the sweet flavors of the bread; this adds a lovely aroma and taste to the glaze.
This Christmas Funfetti Bread is not only a delightful addition to your holiday table but also a reminder of the joy and warmth of baking during this special season!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Funfetti Bread
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for baking. While the oven warms up, grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and generously coat it with non-stick spray to prevent sticking. This will make it easier to remove your delicious Christmas Funfetti Bread once it’s baked.
Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat together the unsalted butter and granulated sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, which should take about 3-5 minutes. This creaming step is crucial for achieving a tender texture in your bread, so take your time to ensure it is well combined.
Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Next, add in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, followed by the vanilla extract. Beat everything together until just combined; the batter may appear slightly thick but should be smooth. This is where the holiday flavors truly start to come together in your Christmas Funfetti Bread!
Step 4: Add the Sour Cream and Milk
Now, carefully mix in the sour cream and whole milk, blending until there are no visible lumps. The addition of these wet ingredients adds moisture and richness to your bread, enhancing its tenderness. Take a moment to enjoy the sweet aroma developing in your kitchen!
Step 5: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This step will help distribute the leavening agents evenly throughout the batter, which is essential for achieving a fluffy texture in your Christmas Funfetti Bread.
Step 6: Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, stirring gently until there are no flour streaks left. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make your bread dense. As you fold in the dry ingredients, you’ll start to see the colors of your festive sprinkles peeking through!
Step 7: Fold in the Sprinkles
Gently fold in the holiday sprinkles, ensuring they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter without overmixing. This step brings the vibrant color and fun visual aspect to your Christmas Funfetti Bread. You can reserve a handful of sprinkles to sprinkle on top before baking for a beautiful finish.
Step 8: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly with a spatula. Place it in the center of your preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know the bread is done when it has a lovely golden-brown crust!
Step 9: Cool the Bread
Once baked, remove the Christmas Funfetti Bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling process allows the bread to set fully, making it easier to slice and serve.
Step 10: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While the bread cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract in a small bowl until smooth. This luscious glaze adds a festive touch and sweetness to your Christmas Funfetti Bread, elevating the flavor perfectly.
Step 11: Glaze and Decorate
Once your bread has completely cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze generously over the top. For the final festive touch, sprinkle any reserved holiday sprinkles on top of the glaze. This delightful decoration not only enhances the appearance but also adds a bit of crunch and sweetness.
Expert Tips for Christmas Funfetti Bread
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow butter, eggs, and sour cream to sit out before starting. This ensures better mixing and a fluffier texture for your Christmas Funfetti Bread.
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Don’t Overmix: Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are combined to avoid dense bread. A few lumps are perfectly fine!
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Check for Freshness: Make sure your baking powder is fresh for optimal rising. Old baking powder can lead to disappointing results.
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Colorful Fun: Reserve some sprinkles to add on top before baking for an extra festive touch that won’t bleed into the batter.
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Adjust Baking Time: Check for doneness around the 60-minute mark as ovens can vary. Tent with foil if it browns too quickly.
Christmas Funfetti Bread Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to personalize your Christmas Funfetti Bread to suit your taste and dietary needs!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter with coconut oil or margarine, and swap sour cream and milk for dairy-free alternatives like almond yogurt and almond milk.
Switching to dairy-free options still ensures a rich flavor and moist texture, perfect for anyone avoiding dairy. -
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg). Use coconut milk in place of whole milk and a dairy-free yogurt for sour cream.
This vegan twist maintains that festive flair without compromising on taste and texture. -
Chocolate Lover: For an indulgent chocolate version, substitute ¼ cup of flour with cocoa powder to create a rich chocolate base.
This creates an extra layer of flavor and a delightful surprise for chocolate fans, making the bread even more festive! -
Extra Flavor: Experiment with different flavor extracts such as almond or hazelnut in place of vanilla to give your bread a unique twist.
Almond extract, with its warm, nutty aroma, can enhance your holiday experience like no other. -
Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour instead of all-purpose flour to easily make a gluten-free version without sacrificing texture.
Your gluten-sensitive friends can still enjoy this festive treat while savoring its moist crumb. -
Spice It Up: Add a teaspoon of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice to the dry ingredients for an extra festive punch!
The warm spices will wrap you in a cozy holiday hug with every slice you enjoy. -
Swirl with Jam: Add a swirl of your favorite jam or fruit preserves into the batter before baking for a delightful surprise with every bite.
This little trick introduces unexpected bursts of flavor that elevate the bread to a new level of yum! -
Lemon Zest: Grate some lemon zest into the batter for a fresh citrus note that contrasts beautifully with the sweet sprinkles.
The bright citrus flavor will leave your taste buds dancing and add a refreshing zing!
For even more joyous baking, consider trying this Herbs Cheese Bread or perhaps treat yourself with a slice of our festive Alfredo Monkey Bread.
Make Ahead Options
These Christmas Funfetti Bread preparations are perfect for busy bakers looking to save time! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance, simply mixing it until combined and then refrigerating it in an airtight container. Make sure to fold in the sprinkles right before baking to maintain their vibrant color and fun texture. Additionally, this bread can be baked and stored in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months before glazing. When you’re ready to serve, just glaze the bread after thawing it, ensuring that it remains just as delightful and festive as when it was freshly made!
What to Serve with Christmas Funfetti Bread?
Savor a delightful holiday meal experience and elevate your Christmas Funfetti Bread with irresistible pairings sure to please everyone at the table.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: A classic comfort food that adds richness, complementing the sweetness of the bread beautifully. The creamy texture helps balance the festive flavors.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits offer a refreshing contrast to the sweetness of the bread. This light and vibrant pairing adds a burst of color to your holiday spread.
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Spiced Eggnog: This creamy, spiced drink is the perfect cozy companion to the Funfetti Bread, enhancing its holiday vibe with every sip. The spices also tie together the festive feel of your meal.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Pairing this warm, spiced treat brings out the holiday spirit and contrasts nicely with the bread’s sweetness. Dunking these cookies in your drink adds a touch of whimsy!
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Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side provides a luscious counterpoint to the bread. The melt-in-your-mouth texture creates a dreamy dessert experience.
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Holiday Charcuterie Board: Combining savory meats, cheeses, and nuts invites a festive mingling of flavors. The bread brings a sweet note to this delicious medley, making it a crowd favorite.
These pairings will surely create joyful memories this holiday season, turning your Christmas Funfetti Bread into a show-stopping centerpiece!
How to Store and Freeze Christmas Funfetti Bread
Room Temperature: Store leftover Christmas Funfetti Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days, allowing you to enjoy its delightful sweetness every morning.
Fridge: If you prefer to extend freshness, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and store it in the fridge for up to 1 week; note that this may slightly alter the texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn, and thaw at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To reheat, slice and warm the bread in the microwave for about 10-15 seconds, or pop it in a toaster oven until just warmed through, bringing back that fresh-baked aroma.
Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right ripeness of bananas for the Christmas Funfetti Bread?
For the Christmas Funfetti Bread, you don’t need bananas. Instead, focus on the freshness of your other ingredients, especially the eggs and butter, which should be at room temperature for the best blending. Fresh eggs should feel heavy for their size and have a clean shell.
What’s the best way to store leftover Christmas Funfetti Bread?
Absolutely! To keep your delightful bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it, tightly wrapped in plastic, for up to 1 week. Just remember, cooling it can change the texture, so be mindful of that!
Can I freeze Christmas Funfetti Bread, and if so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your Christmas Funfetti Bread for up to 3 months! To freeze, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This double layer helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw the bread at room temperature, and you can glaze it before serving for that festive touch!
What should I do if my Funfetti Bread is too dense?
If you find your Christmas Funfetti Bread is too dense, the culprit is likely overmixing. For the next batch, mix the wet and dry ingredients until just combined—it’s okay if there are a few lumps! Additionally, ensure your baking powder is fresh and you’re not overpacking your flour when measuring to achieve the perfect fluffiness.
Can I make this bread dairy-free?
Very! You can easily make Christmas Funfetti Bread dairy-free by substituting the unsalted butter with coconut oil or a dairy-free margarine. Use almond milk or soy milk in place of whole milk and Greek yogurt or a dairy-free sour cream alternative for moisture without compromising flavor. Enjoy the festive spirit in a way that suits your dietary needs!
Deliciously Festive Christmas Funfetti Bread for Your Holidays
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and coat a 9x5-inch loaf pan with non-stick spray.
- Cream the unsalted butter and granulated sugar in a large mixing bowl until light and fluffy, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the large eggs one at a time and mix well after each addition, then stir in the vanilla extract.
- Mix in the sour cream and whole milk until there are no lumps.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon.
- Gradually combine the dry mixture with the wet ingredients, stirring gently until no flour streaks remain.
- Fold in the Christmas sprinkles evenly, reserving a handful for topping.
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let the bread cool in the pan for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Once cooled, drizzle the vanilla glaze over the bread and top with reserved holiday sprinkles.
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