As the holiday season approaches, kitchens everywhere fill with the warm aromas of cinnamon, nutmeg, and baked goodies. Among all the seasonal treats, Eggnog Bread stands out as a uniquely festive and flavorful option. It’s a sweet, spiced loaf that brings the classic holiday drink—eggnog—into a moist, fluffy bread you can enjoy for breakfast, brunch, or dessert.
Eggnog itself has a rich history, dating back to 17th-century Europe, when it was enjoyed as a luxurious milk and egg beverage spiked with rum or brandy. Today, it remains a holiday staple, and transforming it into a bread elevates its festive charm. With its subtle nutmeg and cinnamon notes, this bread captures the essence of the season. It’s easy to bake, makes a thoughtful gift, and pairs perfectly with a cup of coffee, tea, or even a warm glass of eggnog.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a holiday novice, this Eggnog Bread recipe is approachable, delightful, and full of holiday cheer.
Recipe Overview
Eggnog Bread is a spiced, moist loaf that combines the creamy richness of eggnog with warm holiday flavors like cinnamon and nutmeg. Slightly sweet and delicately textured, it’s perfect for gifting, breakfast, or a festive snack. Optional pecans add a gentle crunch, making each slice even more enjoyable.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s everything you need to create this holiday favorite, with step-by-step guidance for best results.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp nutmeg
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ tsp salt
- 1 cup eggnog
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Preheat and Prepare Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray, then set it aside.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Stir thoroughly to ensure the spices and leavening agents are evenly distributed.
Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, you can lightly toast the spices in the dry flour mixture for a few seconds to release their aroma.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy, which will help give the bread a light texture.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Using a spatula, stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense loaf, so fold carefully. If desired, fold in chopped pecans for a crunchy texture.
5. Pour into Loaf Pan
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently with a spatula.
6. Bake the Bread
Bake in the preheated oven for 50–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Pro Tip: Oven temperatures vary. Start checking at the 50-minute mark to prevent overbaking.
7. Cool Before Slicing
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10–15 minutes. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This helps the loaf set properly and ensures clean slices.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Spice Variations
For a personalized flavor, try adding a pinch of cloves, allspice, or ginger to complement the nutmeg and cinnamon.
2. Nuts and Add-ins
Beyond pecans, you can use walnuts, almonds, or even dried cranberries for extra texture and festive flavor.
3. Make It Boozy
For an adult-friendly version, replace 2 tablespoons of the eggnog with rum, bourbon, or brandy to echo traditional holiday eggnog drinks.
4. Gluten-Free Option
Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend to make this recipe gluten-free. You may need to add a tablespoon of extra eggnog or milk for a softer crumb.
5. Sweet Glaze
Drizzle a simple glaze of powdered sugar and eggnog over the top once cooled for a festive, shiny finish.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Room Temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep covered for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before slicing.
Serving Ideas
- Slice and serve for breakfast with butter or cream cheese.
- Pair with a cup of coffee, tea, or hot chocolate for a festive snack.
- Make mini loaves or muffins for holiday gifting or brunch spreads.
Eggnog Bread captures the essence of the holidays in every slice. Its moist, spiced crumb, subtle sweetness, and creamy eggnog flavor make it an irresistible treat for breakfast, dessert, or gifting. Whether baked as a traditional loaf or mini muffins, it’s a simple yet festive way to bring warmth and joy into your kitchen. This bread is approachable for bakers of all skill levels and can easily be customized with nuts, dried fruits, or a boozy twist.
Bring the holiday season to life with the delightful aroma of eggnog, the comforting warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg, and the sweet satisfaction of a freshly baked loaf.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought eggnog?
Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly for this recipe. Homemade eggnog can also be used for a richer flavor.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
Use almond milk or another non-dairy eggnog alternative and a dairy-free butter substitute.
3. How long does the bread stay fresh?
It stays fresh at room temperature for about 3 days and up to 5 days in the refrigerator.
4. Can I add chocolate chips or dried fruit?
Absolutely! Chocolate chips, raisins, or dried cranberries can be folded in for extra flavor and texture.
5. How can I make mini loaves?
Divide the batter among greased mini loaf pans or a muffin tin and reduce baking time to 20–25 minutes.
Eggnog Bread is a moist, spiced holiday loaf infused with creamy eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or festive gifting.
