Name: Christmas Funfetti Bread That Will Brighten Your Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract (pure preferred); 3 large Large Eggs; 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt); 1/2 cup Whole Milk (or non-dairy milk); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (gluten-free blend can be used); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 1 teaspoon Baking Soda; 1/2 teaspoon Salt (kosher preferred); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon; 1/2 cup Christmas Sprinkles; 1 cup Powdered Sugar (or sugar-free substitute); 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (or whole milk)

As I unwrapped the bright, festive sprinkles from their packaging, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of holiday cheer wash over me. Nothing says celebration quite like a slice of Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread, a delightful quick bread that transforms your kitchen into a winter wonderland. With its fluffy texture, warm hints of vanilla and cinnamon, and a sweet vanilla glaze, this easy holiday treat is not only a joy to bake but also a recipe that friends and family will adore. It comes together quickly, making it an excellent option for those busy holiday gatherings—or even a cozy night in. Plus, it’s a fun twist on traditional sweets that embodies the spirit of the season. What will you pair with your first slice—coffee, tea, or perhaps a cozy holiday playlist?

Why is Christmas Funfetti Bread a Must?

Joyful Baking Experience: This recipe brings the magic of the holidays into your kitchen, with easy step-by-step instructions that even beginner bakers can master.

Vibrant and Festive: The colorful sprinkles transform an ordinary quick bread into a visually stunning centerpiece that’s perfect for holiday gatherings and fun family moments.

Delicious Flavors: The warm notes of vanilla and cinnamon create a comforting aroma that fills your home, making your holiday season even more special.

Versatility: Enjoy it as a breakfast treat, dessert, or packaged as delightful gifts; it truly caters to every occasion—just like my favorite Old Fashioned Bread recipe.

Quick and Easy: Prepare this delightful bread in no time, allowing you to spend more moments making memories with loved ones—while it bakes, dive into preparing some classic Olive Garden Breadsticks for a perfect combo!

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Everyone from kids to adults will adore this delightful treat, making it a surefire hit at any holiday celebration!

Christmas Funfetti Bread Ingredients

• Let’s gather all the joyful components to create this festive treat!

For the Batter
Unsalted Butter – Provides richness and moisture; can substitute with margarine or coconut oil for dairy-free options.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness and helps create a tender crumb; substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances flavor; pure vanilla is preferred over artificial extracts for the best results.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and adds moisture; can replace with flax eggs for a vegan version.
Sour Cream – Contributes moisture and a slight tang; Greek yogurt or buttermilk are good substitutes.
Whole Milk – Adds moisture and richness; can use almond milk or any non-dairy milk as an alternative.
All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure; a gluten-free blend can be used as a substitute.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; avoiding substitutes is crucial for rising.
Baking Soda – Essential for proper leavening; always include for best results.
Salt – Enhances flavor; kosher salt can be used instead.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm flavor; you can replace it with pumpkin pie spice for an extra kick.
Christmas Sprinkles – Offers festive color and holiday spirit; any sprinkles will work based on preference.
For the Glaze
Powdered Sugar – For a sweet glaze; alternatively, use a sugar-free powdered sugar substitute.
Heavy Cream – Adds richness to the glaze; substitute with whole milk or a non-dairy option for lighter versions.

With these ingredients, your Christmas Funfetti Bread will soon turn into the star of your holiday celebrations!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Funfetti Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×5-inch loaf pan and generously spray it with non-stick spray. This ensures your Christmas Funfetti Bread will glide out easily once baked. Get ready to create a delightful festive treat!

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using a hand mixer, cream them together on medium speed for about 2-3 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture in your Christmas Funfetti Bread, so take your time.

Step 3: Add Eggs and Wet Ingredients
Once your butter and sugar are fluffy, add in the large eggs, vanilla extract, sour cream, and whole milk. Mix everything together until well combined, scraping down the sides of the bowl as needed. This creamy mixture combines flavors beautifully, setting a warm foundation for your funfetti delight.

Step 4: Whisk the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. Make sure that these dry elements are evenly combined, as this will help your bread rise evenly. Once mixed, slowly introduce these ingredients into the wet mixture with a gentle fold.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Carefully mix the dry ingredients into the wet mix until just combined—this should take about 30 seconds. Be cautious not to overmix; you want to avoid toughening the batter. Observe for any visible flour streaks and ensure everything is incorporated to create a festive Christmas Funfetti Bread batter.

Step 6: Fold in the Sprinkles
Now it’s time for the fun! Gently fold in the colorful Christmas sprinkles, taking care not to overmix, which could cause the colors to bleed into the batter. The sprinkles will create joyous bursts of color throughout your bread, making it an eye-catching holiday treat.

Step 7: Bake the Bread
Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 60-70 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end, and to check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean, your delicious Christmas Funfetti Bread is ready!

Step 8: Cool the Bread
After baking, remove the loaf pan from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Carefully transfer the bread to a wire rack to cool completely. Proper cooling is essential for achieving the soft, tender texture that makes this treat so delightful.

Step 9: Prepare the Glaze
While waiting for the bread to cool, prepare the sweet vanilla glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, heavy cream, and a splash of vanilla extract until smooth. This glaze will add a beautiful finish to your Christmas Funfetti Bread, making it even more festive.

Step 10: Glaze and Garnish
Once your bread has cooled, generously spread the glaze over the top and allow it to drizzle down the sides. For an extra touch of festivity, sprinkle additional Christmas sprinkles on top. Your scrumptious Christmas Funfetti Bread is now ready to be sliced and enjoyed during this joyous season!

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread

Imagine the warmth of your home filled with the sweet scent of vanilla and cinnamon, as you prepare to create a festive gathering.

Creamy Hot Chocolate: Indulge in rich hot chocolate topped with whipped cream; its velvety taste pairs beautifully with the sweet flavors of the funfetti bread.
Spiced Apple Cider: Sipping on spiced apple cider brings a comforting warmth, enhancing the holiday spirit while showcasing the delightful warmth of cinnamon.
Berry Compote: A fresh and tangy berry compote adds a burst of color and flavor contrast, perfect for brightening each slice of the bread.
Fresh Fruit Salad: A light and refreshing fruit salad balances the sweetness of the bread, adding a delightful crunch that everyone’s sure to enjoy.
Whipped Cream Cheese Spread: Cream cheese whipped with a hint of vanilla creates a rich complement, adding decadence to each slice of your funfetti creation.
Festive Spritz Cookies: The buttery, crisp textures of spritz cookies make for a lovely contrast against the moist funfetti bread, enhancing the cookie platter.
Roasted Chestnuts: Their subtle earthy flavor offers a nostalgic touch, reminding everyone of chilly holiday evenings spent by the fire.
Pumpkin Spice Latte: For a cozy drink option, a pumpkin spice latte brings the season’s flavors together, pairing wonderfully with the bread’s festive notes.
Bubbly Prosecco: Celebrate with a glass of sparkling prosecco—it adds a touch of elegance and makes every bite feel like a special occasion.
Gingerbread Cookies: A holiday classic, their spice and sweetness tie in perfectly with the joyful spirit of Christmas Funfetti Bread while doubling as the ultimate holiday treat!

Expert Tips for Christmas Funfetti Bread

• Keep Ingredients Room Temperature: Ensure your butter, eggs, and milk are at room temperature for easier mixing and a smoother batter, leading to a better texture in your Christmas Funfetti Bread.

• Don’t Overmix: After adding the flour, mix just until combined to avoid tough bread. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, so gently fold for the best results.

• Sprinkle Smartly: When folding in the sprinkles, do it gently to avoid bleeding. Overmixing here can turn your batter into a rainbow swirl instead of keeping those festive bursts.

• Check Doneness Carefully: Start checking your bread at the 60-minute mark by inserting a toothpick. If it comes out clean, it’s time to take it out to avoid overbaking.

• Cool Properly: Let the bread cool in the pan for just 5 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps maintain its moisture and tender crumb.

• Freezing Tips: If you plan to freeze your Christmas Funfetti Bread, remember to leave off the glaze until you’re ready to serve—it will keep it fresh and delicious!

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Funfetti Bread

Room Temperature: Store your Christmas Funfetti Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3-4 days to keep it fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you prefer a longer shelf life, you can refrigerate the bread for up to a week. Wrap it tightly to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It will stay good for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw the Christmas Funfetti Bread at room temperature before glazing. For a warm slice, pop it in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or use a toaster oven.

Make Ahead Options

These Christmas Funfetti Bread loaves are ideal for busy holiday preparations! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix everything as per the instructions and store the batter in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To maintain the bread’s delightful texture, avoid adding sprinkles until just before baking, as they can lose color. When you’re ready to bake, gently stir the batter and fold in the sprinkles, then pour it into the prepared pan and bake as directed. This method not only saves you time on festive mornings but ensures your bread is just as delicious and fresh when enjoyed!

Christmas Funfetti Bread Variations

Feel free to let your creativity shine and customize your festive treat to make it truly yours!

Mini Loaf Pans: Use mini loaf pans to create individual-sized breads—bake for about 25 minutes for delightful gifts.
Flavored Extracts: Substitute vanilla extract with almond or lemon extract for a whimsical twist; a hint of citrus zest pairs deliciously too!
Chocolate Delight: For a richer flavor, replace a portion of the flour with cocoa powder. Chocolate and sprinkles in one? Yes, please!
Fruit Add-Ins: Fold in dried cranberries or festive nuts for an added texture twist. These ingredients not only enhance flavor but also complement the funfetti beautifully.
Dairy-Free Glaze: Swap heavy cream for coconut milk to make a lovely, dairy-free glaze. It’s a perfect addition for those with dietary restrictions.
Sugar Substitutes: For a healthier version, use a sugar substitute in the glaze and batter—this way, you can enjoy it guilt-free!
Spicy Kick: Swap ground cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal spiciness that transforms your Funfetti bread into a cozy treat.

Looking to complement your baking with more homemade delights? Try pairing your sweet treat with Old Fashioned Bread or serve it alongside some crunchy Olive Garden Breadsticks for a festive gathering that truly shines!

Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my Christmas Funfetti Bread?
Absolutely! For the best results, use eggs that are at room temperature for optimal mixing. Ensure your butter is softened for easier creaming with sugar, creating a smooth batter. Fresh sour cream adds moisture, so check the expiration date. If you’re using milk alternatives, ensure they’re not past their freshness date, too.

What is the best way to store Christmas Funfetti Bread?
Very! Store your Christmas Funfetti Bread in an airtight container at room temperature to keep it fresh for up to 3-4 days. If it’s a bit warmer in your area, consider refrigerating it, wrapped tightly, which can extend its life to a week. Enjoy it right away for that soft, moist texture!

Can I freeze my Christmas Funfetti Bread?
Of course! To freeze your Christmas Funfetti Bread, ensure it’s completely cooled after baking. Wrap the loaf tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place it in a freezer bag. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, just thaw it at room temperature, and you can glaze it before serving.

What if my bread isn’t rising properly?
The key is checking your leavening agents! Make sure your baking powder and baking soda are fresh, as they can lose potency over time. Also, do not overmix your batter after adding the flour—this can produce a denser bread. If you find the top browning too quickly, tent it with foil during the last 15-20 minutes of baking.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Very much so! For those with egg allergies, you can replace each large egg with 1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water. For dairy-free options, swap unsalted butter with coconut oil or margarine, use almond milk instead of whole milk, and Greek yogurt or buttermilk in place of sour cream. Just remember to check your sprinkle ingredients for any potential allergens.

How long can I keep the bread after baking?
Perfect! Keep your Christmas Funfetti Bread at room temperature for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, wrap it and refrigerate for a week or freeze it for up to 3 months. Just remember, once you thaw it, avoid freezing it again to maintain quality!