Pin 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 baked this loaf, my kitchen was filled with laughter and anticipation as colorful sprinkles scattered everywhere. Watching the dough rise and transform in the oven was pure magic, and slicing into the finished bread brought a smile to everyone at the table.
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 Dry Ingredients:
- 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 Dough:
- Knead by hand or with a mixer fitted with a dough hook for 7–8 minutes, until smooth and elastic.
- Incorporate 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 & Pan:
- 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.
- Topping:
- Return loaf to pan. 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.
- Glaze (Optional):
- Mix powdered sugar with milk and vanilla until smooth. Drizzle over cooled loaf if desired.
Pin 
Baking this loaf for my niece's birthday brought the whole family together—the kids eagerly waited to sprinkle the top, and sharing the first warm slice was the highlight of the celebration.
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—always check packaging.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 260, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 40 g, Protein: 6 g
Pin Every bite brings back birthday memories—serve this loaf fresh and watch it disappear in minutes.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → How does the pretzel bath affect the loaf?
The baking soda bath creates a chewy, deep golden crust reminiscent of classic pretzels, adding unique flavor and texture.
- → Can I customize the sprinkles for different occasions?
Absolutely! Use pastel, chocolate, or themed sprinkles to match celebrations, holidays, or personal tastes.
- → Is this loaf best served warm or at room temperature?
Warm slices offer softness and enhanced flavor, but the loaf can also be enjoyed at room temperature, making it versatile for gatherings.
- → What type of topping pairs well with the loaf?
Whipped cream cheese, buttercream, or a simple vanilla glaze add a creamy complement to the sweet and salty bread base.
- → How should leftovers be stored to maintain freshness?
Wrap well and keep at room temperature for up to two days; this preserves moisture and texture without drying out.
- → Is the dough easy to knead by hand?
Yes, the dough is soft and workable, suitable for hand kneading or using a stand mixer for convenience and consistency.