Eggnog Bread

If you’re looking for the perfect way to spread holiday cheer, look no further than this delightful Eggnog Bread. This moist and tender loaf is infused with the warm flavors of nutmeg and creamy eggnog, making it a comforting addition to any breakfast table or festive gathering. Every bite is a reminder of cozy winter mornings spent with loved ones, and trust me, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close!

What makes this Eggnog Bread truly special is its versatility. Whether you’re enjoying it as a quick breakfast with your morning coffee, serving it as a holiday snack, or gifting it in beautifully wrapped baskets, this bread never fails to bring smiles. It’s one of those easy recipes that feels like a hug in dessert form, perfect for sharing during family gatherings or cozy nights in.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a handful of simple steps, you can whip up this Eggnog Bread even on your busiest days.
• Family Favorite: The delicious flavor combination appeals to all ages, making it an instant hit at the breakfast table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Bake it ahead of time and store it for up to a week. It only gets better!
• Festive Flavors: The rich taste of eggnog paired with nutmeg will fill your home with the warm scents of the season.
• Perfect for Gifting: Wrap it up and share the joy! This bread makes a thoughtful gift for friends and neighbors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Let’s gather what we need to create this delicious Eggnog Bread!

• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons baking powder
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened
• ¾ cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ¾ cup eggnog
• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2–3 tablespoons eggnog

Variations

One of the best things about this Eggnog Bread is how flexible it is! You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your taste or what you have on hand.

• Add Some Spice: Toss in some cinnamon or ginger for an extra kick of flavor!
• Nutty Twist: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness.
• Dried Fruit Delight: Consider adding raisins or cranberries for a sweet burst in every slice.
• Zesty Lemon Glaze: Replace some eggnog in the glaze with lemon juice for a bright citrusy finish.

How to Make Eggnog Bread

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial as it ensures even baking. While that’s heating up, grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper, so your bread doesn’t stick.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, nutmeg, and salt. Mixing these dry ingredients first helps distribute the baking powder evenly throughout the batter, which is essential for that perfect rise.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. This step incorporates air into your mixture, making your Eggnog Bread soft and tender.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla

Add the eggs one at a time to your butter-sugar mixture, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract next; this will enhance the overall flavor and aroma of your bread.

Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures

Now it’s time to alternate adding the dry mixture and eggnog into your wet ingredients. Start with about a third of your dry mix, followed by half of the eggnog. Repeat until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your bread fluffy!

Step 6: Pour Batter into Pan

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth out the top. This will help ensure an even bake across the surface of your bread.

Step 7: Bake Away

Place your pan in the oven and bake for about 50–60 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be heavenly!

Step 8: Cool Down

Let the loaf cool in the pan for about ten minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This step allows steam to escape while preventing sogginess—nobody wants that!

Step 9: Glaze It Up

Once cooled completely, whisk together powdered sugar and eggnog until smooth, then drizzle it over your lovely loaf. Let it set before slicing; this little touch adds sweetness without overpowering those delicious flavors.

And there you have it—a warm loaf of Eggnog Bread ready for sharing! Enjoy every slice with family or friends during this magical season!

Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Bread

Baking can be a delightful experience, and with these handy tips, you’ll ensure your Eggnog Bread turns out perfectly every time!

• Use room temperature ingredients – Bringing your butter and eggs to room temperature allows them to incorporate more easily, creating a smoother batter and resulting in a moist bread.

• Don’t overmix the batter – Mixing just until combined helps to keep the bread tender. Overmixing can lead to a denser texture, so be gentle during this step.

• Check for doneness – Ovens can vary, so start checking your bread at the 50-minute mark. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean to indicate that it’s done.

• Let it cool completely – Allowing the bread to cool on a wire rack ensures that it sets properly and makes slicing easier. Plus, it helps maintain its moisture.

• Experiment with add-ins – Feel free to add in some chopped nuts or dried fruits like cranberries for added flavor and texture. Just be sure to adjust the flour slightly if adding extra ingredients.

How to Serve Eggnog Bread

This Eggnog Bread is not only delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for various occasions. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or enjoying a cozy afternoon treat, here are some delightful ideas for serving this seasonal favorite.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar dusting – A simple sprinkle of powdered sugar adds a sweet touch and looks beautiful against the golden loaf.
• Cinnamon stick – Placing a cinnamon stick alongside each slice offers an aromatic experience that’s perfect for the holidays.
• Fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds – These vibrant garnishes provide a pop of color and a tangy contrast to the sweet bread.

Side Dishes

• Spiced hot chocolate – This rich beverage pairs beautifully with Eggnog Bread, enhancing the warm holiday flavors.
• Fruit salad – A light fruit salad balances the sweetness of the bread and adds freshness; consider using seasonal fruits like oranges and apples.
• Yogurt parfaits – Layer some yogurt with granola and seasonal fruits for a nutritious side that complements the richness of the bread.
• Coffee or chai tea – A warm cup of coffee or spiced chai tea is an excellent companion that enhances your breakfast or snack experience.

With these serving suggestions, you can elevate your Eggnog Bread experience while sharing warmth and joy with family and friends during this festive season! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Eggnog Bread is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance to enjoy throughout the holiday season or whenever you’re craving a festive treat. Here are some handy tips for storing and reheating your delicious loaf.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread to cool completely before storing.
• Wrap the loaf tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Store it at room temperature for up to 3 days.
• For longer freshness, place it in an airtight container.

Freezing

• Slice the Eggnog Bread before freezing for easy individual servings.
• Wrap each slice in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• To reheat, unwrap the slices and place them on a microwave-safe plate.
• Heat in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, you can reheat slices in a toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delightful Eggnog Bread recipe.

Can I make Eggnog Bread without eggs?

Yes, you can substitute eggs with a flaxseed meal or chia seed mixture by mixing 1 tablespoon of either with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for about 5 minutes until it thickens, then use it as a replacement for each egg.

What makes this Eggnog Bread moist?

The combination of melted butter and eggnog contributes to the bread’s moisture, along with proper mixing techniques that keep it tender without overworking the batter.

Can I add nuts or chocolate chips to my Eggnog Bread?

Absolutely! Feel free to fold in chopped walnuts, pecans, or even chocolate chips into the batter before baking for added flavor and texture.

How long does homemade Eggnog Bread last?

When stored properly at room temperature, homemade Eggnog Bread can last up to 3 days. If frozen, it can maintain its quality for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Eggnog Bread as much as I do! It’s not just a recipe; it’s a warm hug on chilly winter mornings. Perfectly spiced and sweetened, it’s bound to become a cherished tradition in your home. Enjoy every slice and share it with loved ones—after all, that’s what the holidays are all about! Happy baking!