Christmas Funfetti Quick Bread

Introduction

As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a bustling hub of festive aromas and colorful treats. This Christmas Funfetti Quick Bread quickly became a family favorite, bringing joy and laughter to our gatherings. The vibrant sprinkles and delightful glaze not only make this bread visually appealing but also add a touch of sweetness that everyone adores. I remember the first time I pulled this bread out of the oven—the warm, inviting scent filled the air, and as I sliced into it, the colorful sprinkles peeked out, eliciting smiles all around. It’s a simple yet delightful recipe that encapsulates the spirit of the season, and I’m excited to share it with you!

Ingredients

For the Funfetti Bread:

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ cup Christmas-colored sprinkles (red, green, and white)

For the Sweet Glaze (Optional):

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tablespoons milk
• ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Extra Christmas sprinkles, for topping

Instructions

1. Preparing the Pan and Dry Ingredients:

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, leaving an overhang on the sides for easy removal.
• In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. Set aside.

2. Creaming the Butter and Sugar:

• In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
• Beat in the eggs one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract.

3. Adding the Wet Ingredients:

• Mix in the sour cream until smooth. Gradually add the milk, stirring until well combined.

4. Combining Wet and Dry Ingredients and Sprinkles:

• Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
• Gently fold in the Christmas-colored sprinkles until they’re evenly distributed throughout the batter.

5. Baking the Bread:

• Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
• Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a wooden skewer inserted into the center comes out clean.
• Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

6. Making the Glaze (Optional):

• While the bread is cooling, prepare the glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, milk, and vanilla extract until smooth. Adjust the consistency by adding more milk, 1 teaspoon at a time, if the glaze is too thick.

7. Glazing and Garnishing:

• Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the glaze evenly over the top. Sprinkle with additional Christmas sprinkles for extra festive flair.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8-10 slices
• Calories per serving: Approximately 250-300 Kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

How to Serve

• For Breakfast: Serve warm with butter or cream cheese spread.
• As a Snack: Enjoy slices with a cup of coffee or hot cocoa.
• For Dessert: Pair with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a delightful treat.
• At Gatherings: Offer as part of a festive spread at holiday parties.

Additional Tips

1. Use Room Temperature Ingredients: For a smoother batter, ensure your butter, eggs, and sour cream are at room temperature.
2. Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread tender and light.
3. Customize Sprinkles: Use any festive sprinkles you have on hand—this bread is versatile!
4. Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so check for doneness a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
5. Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the batter for a warm holiday flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Chocolate Chip Funfetti Bread: Add ½ cup of mini chocolate chips for a delicious twist.
• Nutty Funfetti Bread: Fold in ½ cup of chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
• Citrus Funfetti Bread: Incorporate orange or lemon zest for a refreshing citrus flavor.
• Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut oil or a dairy-free butter alternative and replace sour cream with a dairy-free yogurt.

Serving Suggestions

• Festive Breakfast Spread: Serve alongside a fruit platter and yogurt for a colorful brunch.
• Gift Idea: Wrap slices in decorative foil or packaging for delightful homemade gifts.
• Holiday Party Platter: Include this bread on a dessert table, complementing other treats.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Keep the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, wrap the completely cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this bread ahead of time?

• Yes! This bread stays fresh for several days and can also be frozen.

1. What can I use instead of sour cream?

• Greek yogurt works well as a substitute.

1. Can I use different colors of sprinkles?

• Absolutely! Use any festive sprinkles you prefer.

1. How can I make this recipe healthier?

• Substitute half of the flour with whole wheat flour and reduce the sugar slightly.

1. What can I serve with this bread?

• It pairs well with coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.

1. Can I skip the glaze?

• Yes, the bread is delicious on its own without the glaze.

1. How do I know when the bread is done?

• Insert a wooden skewer into the center; it should come out clean.

1. What if my batter is too thick?

• Add a little more milk to reach the desired consistency.

1. Can I add other flavors?

• Yes, feel free to experiment with extracts like almond or lemon.

1. Is this bread suitable for vegetarians?

• Yes, all ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.

Conclusion

This Christmas Funfetti Quick Bread is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. Its soft, moist texture and festive colors make it a perfect addition to any holiday celebration. Whether enjoyed at breakfast, as a snack, or as a dessert, this quick bread is sure to bring smiles and joy to your table. So, gather your loved ones and bake up a batch of this festive delight—it’s a delicious way to celebrate the season! 🎉🍞

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