Save 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.
The first time I made this loaf, my friends were amazed by its bright colors and crunchy topping, making every slice feel like a celebration.
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
- Make the dough:
- In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. Add warm milk, softened butter, and egg. Mix until a shaggy dough forms.
- Knead the dough:
- Knead by hand or with a mixer fitted with a dough hook for 7–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic. 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 and second rise:
- Punch down dough and shape into a loaf. Place seam-side down in a greased 9x5-inch (23x13 cm) loaf pan. Cover and let rise for 30–40 minutes, until puffy.
- Pretzel bath:
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a saucepan, bring 4 cups water to a simmer. Add baking soda (be careful; it will bubble up). Carefully lift loaf and dip the top and sides into the baking soda bath for 10–15 seconds. Return loaf to pan.
- Topping:
- Brush with melted butter and sprinkle with 2 tbsp sprinkles and pretzel salt.
- Bake:
- 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.
- Optional Glaze:
- Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled loaf if desired.
Save My niece absolutely loves this bread and always asks for it on her birthday, creating a tradition that brings smiles each year.
Serving Suggestions
Slice thick and serve with whipped cream cheese or buttercream for a decadent treat that doubles as dessert.
Customization Ideas
Swap rainbow sprinkles for pastel or chocolate varieties to match your celebration theme or opt for a colorful glaze drizzle.
Nutrition Information
Each slice provides about 260 calories, 8 g total fat, 40 g carbohydrates, and 6 g protein.
Save Enjoy a slice warm or at room temperature, and let every bite bring a little celebration to your day.
Recipe Guide
- → Can I use different sprinkle varieties?
Yes, pastel, chocolate, or even themed sprinkles work. Check packaging for allergen information.
- → Is a stand mixer necessary for making the dough?
No, you can knead by hand until the dough is smooth and elastic. A mixer just makes the process easier.
- → How does the baking soda bath affect the loaf?
This step gives the bread its distinct pretzel flavor and a slightly chewy, golden-brown crust.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly at room temperature for up to 2 days. For longer storage, freeze slices individually.
- → Can I make this loaf vegan?
Yes. Substitute plant milk, vegan butter, and swap the egg for aquafaba or flaxseed meal as a binder.
- → What is a good topping or spread?
Try whipped cream cheese or buttercream for extra decadence, or enjoy plain for less sweetness.