❤️🎄 Funfetti Christmas Bread 🎄❤️

This festive bread is soft, sweet, and bursting with holiday cheer, thanks to its colorful sprinkles and creamy icing! Perfect for gifting, sharing at holiday gatherings, or treating yourself. 🎅

Ingredients

For the Bread:

½ cup unsalted butter, softened (bring it to room temperature for easier mixing).

1 cup granulated sugar.
2½ teaspoons vanilla extract.
3 large eggs, at room temperature (helps with even mixing).

½ cup sour cream (adds moisture and tanginess).
¼ cup whole milk.
1¾ cups all-purpose flour, sifted (for a light, fluffy texture).

1 teaspoon baking powder.
¼ teaspoon baking soda.
1 teaspoon salt.

½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds a subtle warmth).
⅔ cup Christmas sprinkles (use jimmies or nonpareils; avoid large sugar crystals as they may melt).
Extra sprinkles for topping.

For the Icing:

1¼ cups powdered sugar, sifted (prevents lumps).
2 tablespoons heavy cream (adjust for desired consistency).

1 teaspoon vanilla extract.

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep:

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Spray a 9×5-inch loaf pan with non-stick baking spray or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. Cream Butter and Sugar:

In the bowl of a stand mixer (or using a hand mixer), cream the butter and sugar together on medium speed until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add Wet Ingredients:

Mix in the eggs, one at a time, beating just until combined.
Stir in the vanilla extract, sour cream, and milk until the mixture is smooth and creamy.

4. Combine Dry Ingredients:

In a separate large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and cinnamon.

5. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients:

Gradually add the dry ingredients into the wet mixture. Stir gently until just combined—do not overmix.

6. Fold in Sprinkles:

Carefully fold in the sprinkles, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to prevent the sprinkles from bleeding into the batter.

7. Bake the Bread:

Spread the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean and the top is lightly golden.

8. Cool the Bread:

Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 5 minutes.
Transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before glazing.

Prepare the Icing:

In a medium bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth and slightly thickened. Adjust the consistency by adding more cream for a thinner glaze or more powdered sugar for a thicker glaze.

Assemble and Decorate:

Once the bread is completely cool, spread the icing evenly over the top.
Add extra sprinkles immediately for a festive touch.

Let the icing set for about 10-15 minutes before slicing.

Tips for Success:

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room-temperature eggs, butter, and sour cream helps create a smoother batter.
Sprinkles Choice: Opt for « jimmies » or nonpareils, as they hold up best during baking. Avoid using larger sprinkles or sanding sugar, as they may melt.

Storage: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to 1 week.

Enjoy your Funfetti Christmas Bread—a festive treat that’s as beautiful as it is delicious! 🎄✨