Save It A whimsical loaf combining the salty crunch of pretzels with the sweetness and festive flair of a birthday cake. Perfect for celebrations or as a playful twist on classic bread.
I remember the delight on my friend's face the first time I served this playful loaf at a birthday celebration. It always brings smiles with both its festive look and irresistible flavor.
Ingredients
- Dough: 3 cups (375 g) all-purpose flour, 1/4 cup (50 g) granulated sugar, 2 1/4 tsp (7 g) instant yeast, 1 tsp fine sea salt, 1 cup (240 ml) warm milk (about 110°F/43°C), 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter softened, 1 large egg, 1/2 cup (90 g) rainbow sprinkles
- Pretzel Bath: 1/4 cup (35 g) baking soda, 4 cups (950 ml) water
- Topping: 2 tbsp (28 g) unsalted butter melted, 2 tbsp rainbow sprinkles, 1 tbsp coarse pretzel salt (or flaky sea salt)
- Optional Glaze: 1/2 cup (60 g) powdered sugar, 1–2 tbsp milk, 1/4 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- Mix the Dough:
- In a large bowl combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
- Add Wet Ingredients:
- Add warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead:
- Knead by hand or with a mixer fitted with a dough hook for 7–8 minutes until smooth and elastic.
- Add Sprinkles:
- Gently knead in the rainbow sprinkles until evenly distributed.
- First Rise:
- Place dough in a lightly oiled bowl cover and let rise in a warm place until doubled about 1 hour.
- Shape:
- Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place seam-side down in a greased 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan.
- Second Rise:
- Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes until puffy.
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Pretzel Bath:
- In a saucepan bring 4 cups water to a simmer. Add baking soda (be careful it will bubble up).
- Dip Loaf:
- Carefully lift loaf and dip the top and sides into the baking soda bath for 10–15 seconds.
- Top & Bake:
- Return loaf to pan. Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with 2 tbsp sprinkles and pretzel salt. Bake for 30–35 minutes until deep golden brown and loaf sounds hollow when tapped.
- Cool:
- Cool in pan for 10 minutes then turn out onto a wire rack.
- Glaze (Optional):
- Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled loaf if desired.
Save It My niece always requests this colorful loaf at her birthdays, and it has quickly become a sweet tradition everyone looks forward to sharing together.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, stand mixer (optional), saucepan, 9x5-inch loaf pan, pastry brush, wire rack
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gluten), milk, egg. Rainbow sprinkles may contain soy or tree nuts; check labels for allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories: 260, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 6 g
Save It Serve warm or at room temperature for the best texture and flavor. Perfect for birthday brunch or a cheerful dessert table.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use any type of sprinkles?
It's best to use rainbow sprinkles that hold their color. Avoid nonpareils, which may bleed into the dough.
- → Why dip the loaf in a baking soda bath?
This step creates a classic pretzel crust, resulting in chewy texture and deep golden color.
- → Is the glaze necessary?
No, the glaze is optional but adds extra sweetness and a festive finish to the loaf.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Wrap the loaf and keep it at room temperature for up to two days to maintain freshness.
- → Can I serve this with anything?
Serve slices with whipped cream cheese or buttercream for a richer, celebratory treat.