Name: Delicious Christmas Funfetti Bread for Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Unsalted Butter (softened); 1 cup Granulated Sugar; 2 tablespoons Vanilla Extract (use pure vanilla); 2 large Eggs (can substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water); 1 cup Sour Cream (can use Greek yogurt as an alternative); 1/2 cup Whole Milk (can use almond milk or other non-dairy milk); 2 cups All-Purpose Flour (can replace with gluten-free flour); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder; 1/2 teaspoon Baking Soda (can omit if using self-rising flour); 1/2 teaspoon Salt; 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (nutmeg can be an alternative); 1/2 cup Christmas Sprinkles (use any festive sprinkles); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (can use icing sugar); 2 tablespoons Heavy Cream (adjust for desired thickness)

As the holiday season approaches, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me—those merry moments filled with laughter, family, and, of course, delicious sweet treats. One standout recipe that always brings joy to our gatherings is my Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread with Vanilla Glaze. This festive quick bread is not only a feast for the eyes with its colorful sprinkles but also a breeze to whip up, taking less than 1.5 hours from start to finish! The warm, sweet aroma of vanilla and cinnamon fills the air, making it the perfect indulgence for any holiday occasion. You’ll love how effortlessly it can elevate your festive brunch or brightening up your dessert table. So, are you ready to spread some holiday cheer with this delightful recipe? Let’s dive in!

Why is Christmas Funfetti Bread a must-try?

Festive and Fun: This Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread transforms any gathering into a celebration, with vibrant sprinkles that bring joy to the table.
Quick to Make: In less than 1.5 hours, you can present a delightful bread that dazzles friends and family, making it perfect for last-minute dessert needs.
Sweet Aroma: The combination of vanilla and cinnamon creates an irresistible scent that wraps your kitchen in holiday warmth.
Versatile Delight: Enjoy it as a festive dessert, a sweet breakfast treat, or alongside your favorite coffee. For more sweet ideas, check out my Banana Bread Brownies or Strawberry Banana Bread.
Moist and Tasty: With its tender crumb and luscious vanilla glaze, this bread is not only beautiful but a delicious indulgence that will leave everyone wanting more!

Christmas Funfetti Bread Ingredients

• Get ready to bake!

For the Batter

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; you can substitute with margarine if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the bread and helps with texture; no direct substitution recommended, as brown sugar could alter flavor.
Vanilla Extract – Provides essential flavor; for the best results, use pure vanilla.
Large Eggs – Binds the ingredients and provides structure; substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
Sour Cream – Ensures moisture and a tender crumb; Greek yogurt can work as an alternative.
Whole Milk – Adds creaminess; almond milk or other non-dairy milk can be used for a dairy-free version.
All-Purpose Flour – The main ingredient for structure; can be replaced with gluten-free flour for gluten-free options.
Baking Powder – Acts as a leavening agent; make sure it’s fresh for the best rise.
Baking Soda – Assists in rising and texture; can be omitted if using self-rising flour.
Salt – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor; essential for flavor depth.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and holiday flavor; nutmeg could be a great alternative.
Christmas Sprinkles – The festive touch that adds color and fun; use any available festive sprinkles.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Gives the glaze its sweetness and smooth texture; icing sugar can be a good substitute.
Heavy Cream – Provides a smooth consistency for the glaze; half-and-half or milk can be used, adjusting the amount for desired thickness.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Christmas Funfetti Bread

Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s heating, take a 9×5-inch loaf pan and coat it with non-stick spray to ensure your Christmas Funfetti Bread slides out easily after baking. This preparation is essential for creating a beautifully shaped loaf that’s perfect for festive gatherings.

Step 2: Cream Together Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, add the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer or a sturdy whisk, cream them together until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3–5 minutes. You want to achieve a pale yellow color and a creamy texture, which will help create a moist crumb in your Funfetti bread.

Step 3: Incorporate Eggs and Vanilla
Next, crack in the large eggs and pour in the pure vanilla extract. Mix well on medium speed until everything is fully integrated, scraping down the sides of the bowl if needed. This step adds essential moisture and flavor that enhances the overall taste of the Christmas Funfetti Bread.

Step 4: Blend in Sour Cream and Milk
Now, add the sour cream and whole milk to the bowl. Mix until the batter is smooth and homogenous. The combination of these wet ingredients enhances the tenderness of the bread, contributing to its soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that everyone will love.

Step 5: Whisk Together the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground cinnamon. This ensures even distribution of the leavening agents and spices, which are crucial for achieving the right rise and holiday flavor in your Christmas Funfetti Bread.

Step 6: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients
Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring gently with a spatula until just combined. It’s important not to overmix, as this can lead to a dense bread. Aim for a few flour streaks remaining, since we want a light, airy texture in our final loaf.

Step 7: Fold in the Christmas Sprinkles
Using a spatula, gently fold in the festive Christmas sprinkles. Be careful to mix just until they are evenly distributed, avoiding overmixing to prevent the sprinkles from bleeding into the batter. This step brings that joyful pop of color to your Funfetti bread, making it extra festive!

Step 8: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 60–70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The bread should be golden brown and spring back when lightly touched, indicating it’s done.

Step 9: Cool the Bread
Once the bread is baked, remove it from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 5 minutes. Then, carefully transfer the loaf to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling phase is vital as it allows the bread to set properly, enhancing its texture before glazing.

Step 10: Prepare the Vanilla Glaze
While the bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and additional vanilla extract in a small bowl until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This glaze will not only add sweetness but also a beautiful, shiny finish to your Christmas Funfetti Bread.

Step 11: Glaze the Bread
Once your Funfetti bread has cooled completely, drizzle the prepared glaze on top, allowing it to cascade down the sides. If desired, sprinkle additional Christmas sprinkles on top for that extra festive touch. This makes for a celebratory presentation perfect for holiday gatherings.

Step 12: Slice and Serve
After glazing, allow the frosting to set for a few minutes before slicing the bread into thick pieces. Serve your delightful Christmas Funfetti Bread on a festive platter as a sweet treat or breakfast option. Gather your family and friends to enjoy the vibrant, joyous flavors this recipe brings to your holiday table!

Expert Tips for Christmas Funfetti Bread

Don’t Overmix: After adding the sprinkles, mix gently to avoid them bleeding into the batter, which can mar the colorful appearance of your Christmas Funfetti Bread.
Test for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center to check if the bread is fully baked. It should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs adherent.
Avoid Browning: If your Funfetti bread starts to brown too quickly, tent it with foil during the last part of baking to prevent burning while ensuring it cooks through.
Proper Cooling: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for a few minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This helps set the texture and makes slicing easier.
Customize Glaze Thickness: Adjust the amount of cream in the glaze to achieve your desired thickness. A thicker glaze will sit nicely on top, while a thinner one will drizzle down the sides beautifully.

How to Store and Freeze Christmas Funfetti Bread

Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it stays moist and delicious.

Fridge: If you prefer a cooler option, keep the bread in the fridge for up to a week, but note it may slightly affect the texture.

Freezer: To enjoy your Christmas Funfetti Bread later, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw at room temperature before glazing, or microwave slices for 10-15 seconds for a warm treat.

What to Serve with Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread?

Delight your guests with a twinkling selection of sides that perfectly complement this festive sweet bread.

Rich Hot Chocolate: A warm cup of rich hot chocolate makes every bite of sweet bread feel indulgent and cozy.
This creamy drink paired with the funfetti loaf will evoke memories of holiday cheer wrapped in a warming hug.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices of a chai latte harmonize beautifully with the sweet vanilla and cinnamon flavors in the bread.
Sip this warming beverage alongside your festive treat for a spiced twist that enhances your holiday experience.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart and zesty cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the Funfetti Bread, creating a delightful balance of flavors.
This combination adds a refreshing note, making each slice of bread even more delectable.
Gingerbread Cookies: For a double dose of holiday spirit, serve your funfetti bread with spiced gingerbread cookies.
Their chewy texture and rich flavors provide another festive touch that will leave everyone smiling.
Fruit and Nut Salad: A vibrant fruit salad topped with crunchy nuts offers fresh textures and flavors, providing a pleasant contrast to the sweet loaf.
This colorful salad brings a refreshing element to your table, brightening up any dessert spread.
Eggnog Milkshake: For a playful dessert addition, serve a creamy eggnog milkshake alongside your bread.
Its rich, festive flavors and creamy texture will make every slice taste even more special.
Festive Cheesecake Bites: Light and creamy cheesecake bites with a hint of peppermint or cinnamon pair delightfully with your sweet bread.
These tiny treats add elegance to your dessert table and ensure guests can indulge without feeling too full.

Make Ahead Options

This Easy Christmas Funfetti Bread is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the hectic holiday season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by mixing all the wet and dry ingredients separately, then refrigerate both until you’re ready to bake. For the best results, allow the batter to come to room temperature before baking to ensure a nice rise. You can also store the baked bread at room temperature for up to 3 days tightly wrapped to maintain its moisture, and glaze it just before serving for a fresh finish. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a delightful festive treat ready to impress with minimum effort!

Christmas Funfetti Bread Variations

Feel free to get creative with your Christmas Funfetti Bread and make it your own delight!

Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and dairy-free yogurt for a delicious, non-dairy version that everyone can enjoy.
Gluten-Free: Swap all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour blend to cater to gluten-sensitive friends, making this treat inclusive for all.
Flavored Glaze: Infuse the glaze with peppermint extract for a fresh holiday twist that’ll leave everyone wanting another slice.
Chocolate Chip Twist: Instead of sprinkles, fold in mini chocolate chips for a rich and decadent touch that contrasts beautifully with the sweet dough.
Nutty Goodness: Add chopped nuts—like walnuts or pecans—for a delightful crunch that complements the bread’s tender texture.
Muffin Version: Transform this festive bread into muffins! Bake for about 20-25 minutes for delightful, shareable bites.
Fruit Fusion: Toss in some dried cranberries or mini marshmallows for added sweetness, creating a delightful flavor explosion.
Spiced Variation: Amp up the fall vibes by incorporating pumpkin spice or nutmeg instead of the traditional cinnamon, giving your bread a whole new depth of flavor.

As you indulge in this festive delight, consider pairing it with a cup of coffee or tea. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try a slice of my Cinnamon Sugar Donut Bread for a different take on holiday flavors!

Christmas Funfetti Bread Recipe FAQs

How do I know if my ingredients are ripe or fresh?
Absolutely! When selecting your ingredients, fresh eggs should be clean and have a firm shell. Sour cream should be creamy and without any off-putting smell. For butter, ensure it’s smooth and has not been left out too long at room temperature. Additionally, if using any fruits or dairy, check expiration dates. Always use eggs before their sell-by date for the best results in baking.

How should I store my Christmas Funfetti Bread?
Very! Store your Christmas Funfetti Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for 3-4 days to keep it moist and delicious. If you prefer to refrigerate, it’s best to consume it within a week, although this may slightly alter its texture. Wrapping it with foil is also a great option for increased freshness.

Can I freeze Christmas Funfetti Bread, and if so, how?
Yes, you can! To freeze your Christmas Funfetti Bread, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap, making sure there are no air pockets. Place it in a zip-top freezer bag labeled with the date. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, let it thaw at room temperature, and don’t forget to glaze it afterward for extra indulgence!

What can I do if my Funfetti Bread is too dense?
If your Christmas Funfetti Bread turns out too dense, it might be because it was overmixed or the flour was packed too tightly. To avoid this, always gently fold dry ingredients into wet ingredients until just combined, and spoon your flour into measuring cups rather than scooping directly from the bag. Ensuring your baking powder and baking soda are fresh is also crucial for proper leavening. If you ever experience any issues, just remember: practice makes perfect!

Is this Funfetti Bread safe for people with allergies?
Always check! The ingredients used in this recipe include eggs, dairy, and gluten, which can pose concerns for individuals with food allergies or sensitivities. For a vegan option, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and replace dairy with almond milk or coconut yogurt. If you’re unsure, consult with guests before serving, and consider alternative ingredients to make everyone feel included.

Can pets eat Christmas Funfetti Bread?
Absolutely not! While it may seem tempting to share, this bread contains ingredients like sugar and dairy that could upset your pet’s stomach. Always keep human treats away from your furry friends and let them stick to their own treats!