I’m so ready to share my absolute favorite holiday baking secret with you—eggnog bread that’ll make your whole kitchen smell like Christmas morning!
There’s something magical about the warm nutmeg aroma that fills your home as this moist, slightly sweet loaf bakes to golden perfection.
Ever wondered how to transform that carton of holiday eggnog into something even more special? This recipe is surprisingly simple but delivers big on festive flavor. Curious about what makes this bread so irresistible?
Why You’ll Love this Homemade Eggnog Bread
If you’ve been looking for a festive treat that captures the holiday spirit, this homemade eggnog bread is about to become your new favorite.
The rich nutmeg aroma filling your kitchen alone is worth the baking time.
I’m obsessed with how this bread strikes the perfect balance – moist inside with a slightly crisp top.
It’s wonderfully versatile too. Enjoy a slice with morning coffee, serve it at brunch, or dress it up with the optional eggnog glaze for dessert.
The best part? It’s surprisingly simple to make with ingredients you probably have on hand during the holiday season.
What Ingredients are in Homemade Eggnog Bread?
To make this deliciously festive eggnog bread, you’ll need a simple collection of pantry staples plus that signature holiday drink that gives this bread its distinctive flavor.
- 2¼ cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup eggnog
- 2 eggs, beaten
- ½ cup butter, melted
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
For those wanting to take this bread to the next level, consider adding a splash of rum extract to the batter or preparing an eggnog glaze for drizzling over the cooled loaf—both options really amplify that classic eggnog flavor profile we all crave during the holiday season.
How to Make this Homemade Eggnog Bread
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9×5 loaf pan.
This preparation step might seem simple, but it’s essential for ensuring your bread comes out easily after baking.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together 2¼ cups of flour, 1 cup of sugar, 2 teaspoons of baking powder, ½ teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg until well combined.
Getting these ingredients evenly distributed now means you won’t bite into pockets of baking powder later—trust me on this one.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix 1 cup of eggnog, 2 beaten eggs, ½ cup of melted butter, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
The melted butter should be warm but not hot enough to cook those eggs prematurely.
Step 4: Create Your Batter
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredient mixture until just combined.
We’re going for barely mixed here—overmixing is the archenemy of tender quick breads, creating tunnels and toughness nobody wants.
Step 5: Transfer to Baking Pan
Pour your batter into the greased loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top.
Can we take a moment to appreciate how amazing the kitchen smells already with those nutmeg and eggnog aromas wafting around?
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
The top should be golden brown and might crack slightly—a charming rustic touch that signals deliciousness awaits.
Step 7: Cool Before Enhancing
Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
For those feeling extra festive, this cooling time is perfect for whipping up that optional eggnog glaze to drizzle over the top.
Step 8: Add Optional Flavor Boosters
Consider adding a teaspoon of rum extract to your wet ingredients for an authentic eggnog flavor boost, or prepare a simple eggnog glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of eggnog and drizzling over your cooled bread.
These little touches transform a delicious bread into something truly memorable for holiday gatherings.
For best mixing results when creating this flavorful holiday bread, consider using a premium stand mixer to thoroughly incorporate all ingredients without overmixing.
What to Serve with Homemade Eggnog Bread
This festive bread shines as part of a holiday breakfast or afternoon coffee break.
Serve thick slices with a smear of cinnamon butter or cream cheese for a simple but divine pairing.
Want something to cut through the richness? Fresh berries or a citrus fruit salad provide the perfect balance.
For an indulgent dessert option, try warming a slice and topping it with vanilla ice cream or whipped cream.
And what’s eggnog bread without a beverage companion? A cup of coffee works beautifully, but for true seasonal harmony, serve alongside hot chocolate or—my personal favorite—a small glass of actual eggnog.
Talk about doubling down on holiday flavors!
Homemade Eggnog Bread Substitutions and Variations
Need to adapt this festive treat? No problem! Here are some easy swaps and creative twists:
- Dairy Alternatives: Replace eggnog with plant-based nog and use dairy-free butter for a lactose-free version.
- Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking blend.
- Lower Sugar: Reduce sugar to ¾ cup or use a natural sweetener like coconut sugar.
- Fun Add-ins: Fold in ½ cup cranberries, white chocolate chips, or chopped walnuts before baking.
- Boozy Version: Add 2 tablespoons of rum or bourbon to the wet ingredients for grown-up flavor.
- Spice it Up: Double the nutmeg or add ½ teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of cloves for extra warmth.
- Topping Ideas: Try a streusel topping before baking or dust with powdered sugar when cool.
- Mini Loaves: Divide batter among mini loaf pans and reduce baking time to 25-30 minutes for perfect gift-giving.
Leftovers and Storage for this Homemade Eggnog Bread
This festive bread actually develops deeper flavors overnight, making it perfect for make-ahead holiday treats! Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Counter Storage: Wrap cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
- Refrigeration: Extends freshness to 5-7 days. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent drying.
- Freezer Option: Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf (once completely cooled) in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. Freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
- Refreshing Tip: Microwave a slice for 10-15 seconds or toast lightly to restore that just-baked texture. A light spread of butter works wonders on day-old slices.
- Prevent Drying: Always slice just before serving rather than pre-slicing the entire loaf.
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about the warm spices and rich flavor of this eggnog bread that captures the essence of holiday baking.
The combination of nutmeg, vanilla, and creamy eggnog transforms simple ingredients into a festive treat that fills your kitchen with the most comforting aroma.
Perfect for Christmas morning breakfasts or as a thoughtful homemade gift for neighbors and friends, this bread brings holiday cheer to any occasion.
Whether you enjoy it with your morning coffee or as an afternoon snack with a mug of hot chocolate, each slice serves as a delicious reminder of the season’s simple pleasures and traditions.
