As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the warm, comforting flavors of eggnog. That’s why I absolutely adore making Eggnog Bread! This delightful treat combines the rich essence of eggnog with a moist, tender loaf that’s perfect for festive gatherings. Whether you’re a busy mom juggling holiday plans or a professional looking to impress your loved ones, this recipe is a quick solution that brings joy to your table. Plus, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone asking for seconds!

Eggnog Bread: A Festive Delight You Can’t Ignore!

Author: Chef Shana
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Description

Eggnog Bread is a delightful holiday treat that combines the rich flavors of eggnog with a moist, tender loaf, perfect for festive gatherings.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup eggnog
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, cream the softened butter, then add the eggnog, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing until well combined.
Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding chopped nuts or dried fruit to the batter.
This bread can be served warm or at room temperature.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Category: Dessert
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Bread

This Eggnog Bread is not just a treat; it’s a celebration of flavors that captures the essence of the holidays. It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy days when time is tight. The moist texture and rich taste will have your family and friends raving about it. Plus, it’s a delightful way to use up leftover eggnog, turning a simple ingredient into a festive masterpiece!

Ingredients for Eggnog Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Eggnog Bread masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: This is the backbone of your bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
Sugar: Sweetness is key! It balances the spices and enhances the eggnog flavor.
Baking powder: This leavening agent helps the bread rise, giving it that lovely fluffy texture.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure your bread is light and airy.
Salt: A pinch of salt enhances all the flavors, making each bite more delicious.
Ground nutmeg: This spice is a classic in eggnog, adding warmth and a hint of holiday cheer.
Ground cinnamon: Another festive spice that brings a cozy aroma and flavor to the bread.
Unsalted butter: Softened butter adds richness and moisture, making the bread tender.
Eggnog: The star ingredient! It infuses the bread with its creamy, spiced goodness.
Large eggs: Eggs provide structure and moisture, helping bind everything together.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor, making it even more delightful.

For those looking to add a twist, consider incorporating chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and flavor. You can find all the exact measurements at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Eggnog Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures your Eggnog Bread bakes evenly. While the oven warms up, grab a loaf pan and grease it with a bit of butter or cooking spray. This step is crucial to prevent sticking. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than a beautiful loaf that won’t come out of the pan! Set the prepared pan aside while you mix the ingredients.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. This step is essential for evenly distributing the leavening agents and spices. I like to use a whisk for this; it makes the process quick and easy. Make sure there are no lumps, as they can affect the texture of your Eggnog Bread. Once combined, set this bowl aside.

Step 3: Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter until it’s light and fluffy. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Then, add in the eggnog, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Mix everything together until it’s well combined. The creamy texture of the butter combined with the eggnog creates a rich base for your bread. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! Make sure there are no lumps before moving on.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together! Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, and we want our Eggnog Bread to be light and fluffy. Once combined, you’ll see a beautiful batter that smells like the holidays!

Step 5: Bake the Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This helps it bake evenly. Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The aroma of eggnog and spices will fill your kitchen, making it hard to wait! Keep an eye on it towards the end to avoid overbaking.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to remove. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. Slice it up and serve it warm or at room temperature. It’s perfect on its own or with a spread of butter. Enjoy every bite of this festive delight!

Tips for Success

Use room temperature ingredients for better mixing and texture.
Don’t overmix the batter; a few lumps are okay!
Check for doneness with a toothpick; it should come out clean.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh.

Equipment Needed

Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar size will do.
Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for dry ingredients and another for wet.
Whisk: A whisk is ideal for mixing, but a fork can work in a pinch.
Spatula: A rubber spatula helps in folding and smoothing the batter.
Toothpick: Essential for checking if your Eggnog Bread is baked through.

Variations

Nuts and Dried Fruits: Add chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries for extra texture and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious gluten-free Eggnog Bread.
Spiced Rum Twist: Incorporate a splash of spiced rum into the wet ingredients for an adult version of this festive treat.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Fold in mini chocolate chips for a sweet surprise in every slice.
Vegan Adaptation: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and eggnog for a vegan-friendly version.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Eggnog Bread with a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy treat.
Top slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
Serve alongside a fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
For a holiday gathering, arrange slices on a decorative platter with festive garnishes.

FAQs about Eggnog Bread

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this Eggnog Bread recipe. Just make sure it’s a flavor you enjoy, as it will influence the final taste of your bread.

How should I store leftover Eggnog Bread?

To keep your Eggnog Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. You can also freeze it for longer storage; just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil.

Can I make Eggnog Bread ahead of time?

Yes! This bread actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day or two in advance and store it properly until you’re ready to serve.

What can I serve with Eggnog Bread?

Eggnog Bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea. You can also enjoy it with a spread of butter or cream cheese for an extra treat!

Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! You can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

Making Eggnog Bread is more than just baking; it’s about creating memories and sharing joy with loved ones. The rich flavors and delightful aroma fill your home with warmth, making it a perfect centerpiece for any holiday gathering. Each slice is a reminder of the festive spirit, bringing smiles to faces young and old. Whether you enjoy it fresh from the oven or as a sweet treat later, this bread is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home. So, roll up your sleeves and let the magic of Eggnog Bread brighten your holiday season!