Fairy bread has been a hit at kids’ parties in Australia and New Zealand for nearly a century. It was first mentioned in a Tasmanian newspaper in the 1920s. This treat is made with simple ingredients like white bread, salted butter, and colorful sprinkles called “hundreds and thousands.”
Its rainbow look and tasty flavor make it a favorite at celebrations. In this article, you’ll learn how to make the perfect fairy bread. You’ll also find out how to make it more fun for kids to help with baking. So, get ready to add some joy to your next party.

Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- Fairy bread is a simple and nostalgic treat made with white bread and sprinkles.
- It is a popular choice at children’s parties in Australia and New Zealand.
- The first reference to fairy bread dates back to the 1920s.
- Different family preferences exist regarding the use of butter or cream cheese.
- Fairy Bread Day is celebrated on November 24.
What is Fairy Bread?
Fairy bread is a beloved Australian treat that has won many hearts. It’s made with white bread, butter, and colorful sprinkles called 100’s and 1000’s. It’s often cut into triangles and enjoyed at parties, gatherings, or as a nostalgic snack.
Origins of Fairy Bread
Fairy bread’s roots are in Australia, where it’s a favorite party snack. A poem by Robert Louis Stevenson in 1885 inspired this treat. It became a staple at birthday parties and festive events.
In 1934, the Sydney Morning Herald highlighted it as a key part of celebrations. Australia even has Fairy Bread Day on November 24th to honor it.
Cultural Significance in Australia
Fairy bread holds a special place in Australian culture. It represents the joy of childhood and simple celebrations. Both young and old in Australia remember it fondly from their early years.
It’s not just for birthdays; fairy bread is also at Christmas and Australia Day. This connects generations, making it a key part of Australian food traditions.

Ingredients for Your Fairy Bread Recipe
To make delicious fairy bread, you need a few key ingredients. These ingredients come together to create this beloved treat. Knowing the traditional ingredients helps you make it just right. You can also try different ingredients to suit your taste.
Traditional Fairy Bread Ingredients
The classic fairy bread recipe has three main parts:
- White bread: Soft, fluffy white sliced bread makes it extra tasty.
- Butter: Lots of spreadable butter make the sprinkles stick well.
- Sprinkles: Colorful nonpareil sprinkles, also known as 100’s & 1000’s, are a must.
These ingredients make your fairy bread look and taste great. Enjoying it fresh makes it even better.
Possible Ingredient Substitutions
Want to try something new? You can swap out some ingredients. If you don’t have butter or want something different, try:
- Nutella: A chocolate-hazelnut spread that’s sweet.
- Peanut butter: Adds a nutty flavor that goes well with sprinkles.
- Alternative sprinkles: Chocolate sprinkles or colored sugar can add a fun twist.
These substitutions let you make fairy bread your own way. It keeps the fun and playful spirit alive. It’s still a favorite at kids’ parties in Australia.

How to Make Fairy Bread: Step-by-Step Guide
Making fairy bread is fun for everyone. It’s perfect for birthday parties or casual get-togethers. The easy fairy bread recipe is simple to follow.
Preparation Tips
Start by gathering your ingredients: white bread, softened butter, and colorful sprinkles. Here’s how to do it right:
- Spread butter on each bread slice, covering the edges for sprinkles to stick.
- Put sprinkles on the buttered bread, making sure they cover everything.
- Use cookie cutters to cut the bread into fun shapes.
Use cheap white bread for the best taste. Make fairy bread just before serving for freshness. You can make it a few hours early, but it’s best fresh.
Serving Suggestions
How you present fairy bread matters. Here are some ideas:
- Pair it with fruit juices or sparkling water for a fun drink.
- Add fruit skewers for color and health.
- Make a themed display for special events.
These serving suggestions will make your fairy bread a hit. Enjoy this Australian favorite at your next event!

Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
---|---|---|
White Bread | 8 slices | Inexpensive grocery store brand recommended |
Butter | 1/4 cup | Softened salted butter works best |
Sprinkles | 1/4 cup | Multicolored “hundreds and thousands” |
Best Fairy Bread Recipe Variations
Fairy Bread is a great way to get creative in the kitchen. You can make it your own with different flavors and themes. Try these fun fairy bread ideas to wow your guests.
Colorful Fairy Bread Ideas
Make your fairy bread pop with colorful sprinkles. Choose sprinkles that match the season, like orange and black for Halloween or red and green for Christmas. Adding colorful sugar makes it even more eye-catching for kids.
Seasonal Fairy Bread Themes
Each season offers a chance to make your fairy bread special. In spring, use pastel sprinkles for Easter. Summer brings beach vibes with blue sugar or edible seashells. Autumn and winter can have warm and icy colors, respectively. These changes make any event more fun.
Kid-Friendly Fairy Bread Variations
For kids, try something new like chocolate fairy bread, or hagelslag. Swap sprinkles for chocolate for a tasty twist. Adding fresh banana slices or berries adds flavor and looks great. These touches keep fairy bread exciting for kids.

Easy Fairy Bread Recipe for Beginners
Starting with beginner cooking? The easy fairy bread recipe is a great choice. It’s a fun treat that’s easy to make. You’ll need just a few simple things to make this colorful snack.
Quick Tips for New Cooks
Here are some tips for new cooks to make your fairy bread perfect:
- Use room temperature butter for smooth spreading.
- Freezing the bread a bit helps it not tear when spreading.
- Cut the bread into fun shapes with cookie cutters for a magical touch.
- Don’t be shy with the butter. It helps the sprinkles stick well.
This recipe has only three ingredients: white bread, butter, and sprinkles. Enjoy it right away for the best taste and color. Try different sprinkle designs for holidays to improve your cooking. For more beginner recipes, check out this delicious option.
Fun with Fairy Bread: Creative Ideas
Creating different versions of fairy bread makes it more exciting. It turns a simple snack into something amazing. Rainbow fairy bread and chocolate fairy bread are two fun ideas that everyone will love.
Rainbow Fairy Bread Instructions
Start with soft white bread for rainbow fairy bread. Spread butter on each slice for extra flavor. Then, cover the bread with colorful rainbow sprinkles.
You can layer different colors for a stunning rainbow look. Cut the bread into fun shapes with cookie cutters. This makes the bread look great and taste even better!
Chocolate Fairy Bread Enhancements
For a chocolate twist, use chocolate hail instead of sprinkles. This chocolate fairy bread is a hit with chocolate fans. Begin by spreading butter on the bread, then add chocolate sprinkles.
For an extra treat, drizzle melted chocolate on top. These steps make chocolate fairy bread a special and indulgent treat.
Type of Fairy Bread | Main Ingredients | Visual Appeal | Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Rainbow Fairy Bread | White bread, butter, rainbow sprinkles | Vibrant colors | Birthday parties, kids’ gatherings |
Chocolate Fairy Bread | White bread, butter, chocolate hail | Rich chocolate appearance | Chocolate lovers, dessert tables |
Fairy Bread for Kids: Tips and Tricks
Making fairy bread for kids is a fun way to get them excited about baking. It lets them spread butter on bread and pick their favorite sprinkles. This activity teaches them about cooking and shows how easy it is to make treats at home.
Engaging Kids in Baking
Get your kids involved in every step of making fairy bread. Let them:
- Spread soft butter or margarine on slices of white bread.
- Choose and sprinkle their desired toppings, from colorful nonpareils to alternative spreads like Nutella.
- Cut the decorated bread into fun shapes or traditional triangles, making the presentation exciting.
This hands-on approach creates lasting memories and teaches them kitchen skills.
Storing Leftover Fairy Bread
What to do with leftover fairy bread? Store it in an airtight container or wrap it in cling film. This keeps it fresh, but try to eat it within a few hours for the best taste. Storing it too long can make it soggy, losing that crunchy texture.
Fairy Bread Tutorial: Making Magic Happen
A good fairy bread tutorial can make your experience better. These treats are not just pretty but also fun to make. Watching videos can give you tips and show you how to do it right.
Video Demonstrations
Video content can really help you learn. You’ll see the butter spread, sprinkles falling, and the final result. These videos can teach you the right way to make fairy bread and avoid mistakes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making fairy bread, watch out for a few common mistakes. Not using enough butter can stop the sprinkles from sticking. Also, making it too early can make it dry and less tasty. Assemble your fairy bread just before you serve it for the best taste and look.
Fairy Bread Sprinkles: A Colorful Touch
Sprinkles are key to fairy bread, adding color and charm. The classic choice is “hundreds and thousands.” But now, there are many types of sprinkles. They make the treat look great and bring back memories for many.
Types of Sprinkles You Can Use
Try different sprinkles to make your fairy bread special. Here are some favorites:
- Rainbow sprinkles: These add a vibrant touch and are a favorite among kids.
- Nonpareils: Tiny, spherical sprinkles that create a unique texture.
- Holiday-themed sprinkles: Perfect for festive occasions, these come in myriad shapes and colors.
- Donut sprinkles: A thicker option that can provide an interesting twist to the classic fairy bread.
- Homemade sprinkles: Make your own using candy melts or colored sugar for a personalized flair.
Where to Find Specialty Sprinkles
Finding specialty sprinkles is easy. Local craft stores and baking supply shops have a wide selection. You can also find them online. Check out this short guide on unique sprinkle options. Mixing different sprinkles lets you customize your fairy bread. This way, each creation shows off the occasion’s spirit.
Conclusion
Fairy Bread is a delightful treat that brings back childhood memories in Australia. It’s a favorite at kids’ birthday parties. Soft, buttered bread with colorful sprinkles or hundreds and thousands is both nostalgic and fun to make.
This treat brings joy and wonder, making it perfect for any celebration. You can get creative and make it your own, creating memories with your loved ones. It’s great for any event or just when you want a fun snack.
For more on Fairy Bread, check out this informative resource. By learning the basic recipe, you can make many colorful and themed designs. This simple treat spreads happiness wherever it goes.
F.A.Q
What is the best fairy bread recipe?
The top fairy bread recipe uses soft white bread, lots of butter or margarine, and colorful 100’s & 1000’s sprinkles. It’s simple to make and great for parties.
How do I make easy fairy bread?
To make easy fairy bread, spread butter on white bread slices. Then, sprinkle with 100’s & 1000’s. Cut into triangles for a fun touch. Make sure to spread butter to the edges for better sprinkle sticking.
Can I use different sprinkles for fairy bread?
Yes! You can use different sprinkles like chocolate, rainbow, or themed ones for special times. This adds flavor and color.
Is fairy bread a traditional Australian treat?
Yes, fairy bread is a beloved Australian treat. It’s often seen at kids’ birthday parties and special events. It brings back happy childhood memories.
How can I make fairy bread more colorful?
To make fairy bread more colorful, try different sprinkles or layer them. Use themed sprinkles for holidays like Halloween or Christmas.
Can kids help make fairy bread?
Absolutely! Kids love helping in the kitchen. They can spread butter, add sprinkles, and even cut the bread into fun shapes.
How should I store leftover fairy bread?
Store leftover fairy bread in cling film or an airtight container. It’s best to eat it within a few hours for the best taste.
What are some creative variations of fairy bread?
Try rainbow fairy bread by layering sprinkles or chocolate fairy bread with chocolate hail. These are fun twists on the classic.
Where can I find specialty sprinkles for fairy bread?
Find specialty sprinkles at local craft stores, baking shops, or online. They offer many options to make your fairy bread stand out.