There’s something magical about the holiday season that calls for warm, fragrant baked goods. One of the most comforting treats to enjoy during this time is Eggnog Bread. With its rich, spiced flavor and moist, tender crumb, this bread captures the essence of festive cheer in every bite. Imagine the sweet aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen as you bake—a scent that instantly evokes cozy winter mornings and holiday gatherings.
Eggnog Bread is more than just a seasonal delight; it’s a versatile treat perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet snack with a cup of coffee or tea. Its subtle spice and creamy eggnog base make it uniquely festive, while optional chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re baking for family, friends, or just yourself, this bread is guaranteed to bring warmth and joy to any occasion.
Recipe Overview
Eggnog Bread is a soft, moist quick bread made with classic holiday spices and enriched with creamy eggnog. Sweetened with both granulated and brown sugar, it has a tender texture and a warm, nutty aroma. Easy to make and perfect for the holidays, it can be enjoyed plain, toasted, or with a light drizzle of glaze.
Ingredients & Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide to creating this festive bread, including tips to make it even more delightful.
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
Set your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan with butter or nonstick spray to ensure easy release after baking.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. This ensures even distribution of the spices and rising agents, giving the bread a uniform texture and flavor.
3. Combine Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth. The eggnog provides richness and moisture while adding that signature holiday flavor.
4. Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients
Pour the wet mixture into the dry ingredients. Stir gently with a spatula until just combined—overmixing can lead to dense bread. If you like a nutty texture, fold in chopped pecans at this stage.
Tip: For an extra festive touch, you can add a handful of dried cranberries or a sprinkle of orange zest.
5. Pour Batter into Pan
Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure even baking.
6. Bake
Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The top should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
Tip: If the bread begins to brown too quickly, loosely cover the top with aluminum foil to prevent over-browning.
7. Cool and Slice
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. This prevents sogginess and ensures clean slices. Once completely cooled, slice and enjoy!
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Make It Extra Moist
- Swap half the vegetable oil with unsweetened applesauce for a lighter, moist texture.
- Use whole milk eggnog for richer flavor, or dairy-free eggnog for a vegan-friendly version.
2. Flavor Twists
- Add 1 tsp of rum extract to enhance the traditional eggnog flavor.
- Fold in ½ cup chocolate chips for a sweet, melty surprise in every slice.
3. Nut Options
- If you prefer a crunchier texture, substitute pecans with walnuts or hazelnuts.
- Toast the nuts lightly before adding to enhance their flavor.
4. Glaze or Topping
- Drizzle a simple powdered sugar glaze over the cooled loaf for added sweetness.
- Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon sugar on top before baking for a golden, spiced crust.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Room temperature: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Refrigerator: Keep wrapped for up to 1 week; allow to come to room temperature before serving.
- Freezer: Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and enjoy.
Serving Ideas
- Serve slices warm with butter for breakfast.
- Pair with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa for a cozy holiday treat.
- Cube and use as French toast or bread pudding for a festive brunch.
Eggnog Bread is a simple, yet indulgent treat that captures the essence of the holidays. Its moist texture, spiced aroma, and creamy eggnog flavor make it perfect for sharing with family and friends or enjoying as a comforting snack. Whether served for breakfast, brunch, or dessert, this bread is sure to become a seasonal favorite.
With just a few basic ingredients and simple steps, you can create a loaf that tastes like holiday magic in every bite. From its soft crumb to the warm spices, this bread is a festive delight that brings joy with every slice.
FAQs
1. Can I make Eggnog Bread ahead of time?
Yes! Bake the loaf, let it cool completely, and store in an airtight container. It tastes great the next day.
2. Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely. Wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
3. Can I add other spices?
Yes! Try a pinch of cloves, ginger, or allspice to complement the nutmeg and cinnamon.
4. How do I make it nut-free?
Simply omit the pecans or replace with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
5. Can I use low-fat ingredients?
Yes. Use low-fat milk eggnog and light oil to reduce calories without compromising flavor.
Eggnog Bread is a moist, spiced holiday loaf with nutmeg, cinnamon, and creamy eggnog. Easy to bake, festive, and perfect for breakfast, brunch, or snack time.
