Eggnog Bread: The Ultimate Christmas Bake
Introduction
There are certain flavors that instantly transport us to the holiday season—cinnamon, nutmeg, gingerbread, peppermint, and of course, eggnog. This Eggnog Bread is the ultimate Christmas bake: soft, spiced, and perfect with a warm cup of coffee on a chilly morning. One slice and you’re instantly in holiday mode.
The addition of vanilla pudding mix makes the bread extra moist and tender, while nutmeg and allspice infuse it with cozy warmth. A drizzle of eggnog glaze takes it over the top, making this loaf not only delicious but also festive enough to serve at holiday gatherings or gift to loved ones.
Ingredients Breakdown
Eggnog Bread
2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure.
3.4 ounces vanilla instant pudding mix – Adds moisture and flavor.
2 teaspoons baking powder – Helps the bread rise.
½ teaspoon salt – Balances sweetness.
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Classic holiday spice.
¼ teaspoon ground allspice – Adds depth and warmth.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted and cooled – Richness and tenderness.
1 cup granulated sugar – Sweetness.
2 large eggs, room temperature – Bind ingredients and add richness.
1 ¼ cups eggnog – Signature flavor and moisture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances flavor.
1 teaspoon rum extract – Adds festive flair.
Eggnog Glaze
1 cup powdered sugar, sifted – Base for glaze.
¼ teaspoon rum extract – Flavor boost.
⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg – Warm spice.
2 tablespoons eggnog – Creamy liquid base.
1–2 tablespoons milk – Adjusts consistency.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Pan
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk flour, pudding mix, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and allspice.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk melted butter and sugar until smooth.
Add eggs one at a time, mixing well.
Stir in eggnog, vanilla, and rum extract.
Step 4: Combine
Gradually add dry ingredients to wet mixture.
Mix until just combined—avoid overmixing.
Step 5: Bake
Pour batter into prepared pan.
Bake 50–60 minutes, until toothpick inserted comes out clean.
Cool in pan 10 minutes, then transfer to wire rack.
Step 6: Make Glaze
Whisk powdered sugar, rum extract, nutmeg, eggnog, and milk until smooth.
Drizzle over cooled bread.
Baking Tips
Use room temperature eggs for better mixing.
Don’t overmix—keeps bread tender.
Check early—oven times vary; start checking at 50 minutes.
Cool before glazing—prevents glaze from melting off.
Double the recipe—makes great gifts.
Variations
Eggnog Muffins: Divide batter into muffin tins; bake 18–20 minutes.
Eggnog Bundt Cake: Bake in bundt pan for festive presentation.
Nutty Eggnog Bread: Add chopped pecans or walnuts.
Chocolate Chip Eggnog Bread: Fold in white or dark chocolate chips.
Cranberry Eggnog Bread: Add dried cranberries for tart contrast.
Serving Ideas
Serve warm with coffee or tea.
Pair with mulled wine or hot cocoa.
Slice and serve at holiday brunch.
Wrap in parchment and ribbon for gifts.
Storage
Room Temperature: Store in airtight container for 3 days.
Refrigerator: Keeps fresh up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze loaf for up to 2 months; thaw overnight.
Nutrition (per slice, approx.)
Calories: ~260
Protein: ~4g
Fat: ~11g
Carbs: ~36g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Festive flavor: Eggnog and warm spices.
Moist texture: Thanks to pudding mix.
Easy to make: Simple steps, no mixer required.
Versatile: Works as bread, muffins, or cake.
Perfect for gifting: Beautifully glazed loaf.
Conclusion
This Eggnog Bread is the ultimate Christmas bake—soft, spiced, and festive. With its moist crumb, warm spices, and sweet glaze, it’s perfect for cozy mornings, holiday gatherings, or edible gifts. Bake a loaf, slice it warm, and let the holiday spirit fill your kitchen.