Funfetti Christmas Bread
Festive sprinkles, tender crumb, and a sweet glaze — holiday cheer in every slice.
Introduction
Few baked goods capture the joy of the holidays quite like Funfetti Christmas Bread. With its colorful sprinkles, warm cinnamon undertones, and sweet vanilla glaze, this loaf is as delightful to look at as it is to eat. It’s the kind of recipe that instantly brightens a holiday table, perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting.
Unlike traditional fruitcakes, which can be dense and heavy, this bread is light, moist, and playful. The sour cream and milk keep the crumb tender, while the sprinkles add pops of color that make each slice feel celebratory.
Ingredients Breakdown
For the Bread
½ cup unsalted butter, softened – Adds richness and tender crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetens and balances flavors.
2½ teaspoons vanilla extract – Warm, festive undertone.
3 large eggs – Bind ingredients and provide structure.
½ cup sour cream – Moisture and tang.
¼ cup whole milk – Lightens batter.
1¾ cups all‑purpose flour – Provides structure.
1 teaspoon baking powder – Leavening agent.
¼ teaspoon baking soda – Additional lift.
1 teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon – Warm spice note.
⅔ cup Christmas sprinkles (plus more for topping) – Festive pops of color.
For the Icing
1¼ cups powdered sugar – Sweet glaze base.
2 tablespoons heavy cream – Smooth, rich texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Flavor depth.
##Step‑by‑Step Directions
Preheat Oven: Heat to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
Cream Butter and Sugar: Beat until light and fluffy.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Mix until combined.
Add Sour Cream and Milk: Incorporate until smooth.
Combine Dry Ingredients: Whisk flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.
Mix Wet and Dry: Stir until just combined.
Fold in Sprinkles: Gently mix to avoid bleeding colors.
Bake: Spread batter in pan. Bake 50–60 minutes until toothpick comes clean.
Cool: Rest 5 minutes in pan, then transfer to wire rack.
Make Glaze: Whisk powdered sugar, cream, and vanilla. Spread over cooled bread.
Decorate: Add extra sprinkles. Let set, then slice.
##Baking Science
Butter and sugar creaming incorporates air, helping bread rise.
Eggs provide structure and richness.
Sour cream adds moisture and acidity, tenderizing crumb.
Sprinkles melt slightly, creating colorful pockets.
Glaze adds sweetness and seals moisture.
Tips for Success
Use room‑temperature ingredients for smooth mixing.
Don’t overmix batter — prevents tough texture.
Use quality sprinkles — some brands bleed less.
Check doneness early — ovens vary, so test at 50 minutes.
Variations
Chocolate Funfetti Bread: Add cocoa powder to batter.
Nutty Version: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts.
Citrus Twist: Add orange zest for holiday flavor.
Mini Loaves: Bake in smaller pans for gifts.
Gluten‑Free: Substitute flour with gluten‑free blend.
Serving Ideas
Serve with hot cocoa or coffee.
Pair with fruit salad for breakfast.
Present on holiday dessert table.
Package slices in festive tins for gifts.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store covered up to 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze loaf up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Nutrition (per slice, approx.)
Calories: ~280
Protein: ~4g
Fat: ~12g
Carbs: ~36g
History of Funfetti Baking
Funfetti, also known as confetti cake, became popular in the 1990s when boxed cake mixes introduced colorful sprinkles baked into batter. It quickly became a symbol of celebration, especially for birthdays and holidays.
Why Sprinkles Work So Well
Sprinkles add visual joy and subtle sweetness. Their colors don’t just decorate — they transform baked goods into festive centerpieces.
Pairing Suggestions
Drink Pairing: Eggnog complements holiday flavors.
Coffee Pairing: A medium roast balances sweetness.
Tea Pairing: Spiced chai enhances cinnamon notes.
FAQs
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream? Yes, for similar moisture.
Can I skip glaze? Yes, but it adds sweetness and shine.
Can I make ahead? Yes, bread keeps well for several days.
Storytelling Element
Imagine a holiday morning, the aroma of vanilla and cinnamon filling the kitchen. A loaf of golden bread cools on the counter, its glaze sparkling with sprinkles. Each slice reveals bursts of color, bringing smiles to everyone at the table.
Conclusion
This Funfetti Christmas Bread is more than a recipe — it’s a celebration. With its tender crumb, festive sprinkles, and sweet glaze, it’s a treat that captures the joy of the season. Perfect for gatherings, gifts, or cozy mornings, it’s a recipe worth keeping in your holiday collection.