If you’re looking to cozy up during the holidays with a treat that’s bursting with festive flavors, this Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe is just what you need. This loaf combines the creamy richness of classic eggnog with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, creating a tender, flavorful bread that feels like the essence of the season wrapped in every slice. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast, dessert, or a special snack, this bread delights with its moist texture and comforting aroma, making it an instant holiday favorite you’ll want to bake again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to create this show-stopping bread. Each component plays its part in building the perfect balance of sweet, spice, and moisture to ensure your Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe is a hit every time.
- All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
- Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create a lovely crust on the loaf.
- Brown sugar: Brings a hint of caramel flavor and contributes to the bread’s moist texture.
- Baking powder: Essential for giving the bread a light, fluffy rise.
- Nutmeg: A warm spice that perfectly complements the eggnog’s flavor.
- Cinnamon: Enhances the spice profile, adding depth and coziness.
- Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Eggnog: The star ingredient that adds creaminess and festive richness.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without overpowering flavors.
- Eggs: Bind everything together and help with the rise.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic background note.
- Chopped pecans (optional): Offer a delightful crunch and nutty contrast in every bite.
How to Make Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start off by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a 9×5-inch loaf pan. This simple prep ensures your bread won’t stick and bakes evenly, giving you that perfect golden crust.
Step 2: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. This mix brings together the sweet and spicy elements that will make your bread burst with holiday joy.
Step 3: Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, stir together the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well blended. This wet mix is where the creamy richness of eggnog really starts to shine.
Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl of dry ingredients and stir gently until just combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so be careful to stop once you see no more flour streaks. If you’re using pecans, fold them in here for added texture and nutty flavor.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan and level it evenly. Pop it into the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling the perfect bake time for a moist yet fully cooked bread.
Step 6: Cool Before Enjoying
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This resting time allows the bread to set and makes slicing easier without crumbling.
How to Serve Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Simple toppings can elevate this bread to something truly special. Spread a touch of butter while it’s still warm for a melt-in-your-mouth delight, or sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a pretty, snowy finish that matches the holiday spirit.
Side Dishes
Serve warm slices alongside a cup of hot cocoa, coffee, or a spicy chai tea for a comforting holiday pairing. A dollop of whipped cream or a side of cream cheese frosting also makes a festive accompaniment to this already rich bread.
Creative Ways to Present
Wrap slices individually in parchment and tie with twine for a charming DIY gift, or arrange several pieces on a festive platter garnished with fresh cranberries and rosemary sprigs. This makes the Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe an inviting centerpiece for any holiday gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your leftover Christmas Eggnog Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This maintains its moisture and softness, so you can enjoy a slice without it drying out.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to two months, perfect for prepping in advance for the holiday season.
Reheating
To bring back that freshly baked warmth, simply pop a slice in the toaster oven or warm it briefly in the microwave. Just 15-20 seconds is enough to revive its softness and highlight the lovely spices again.
FAQs
Can I use almond milk instead of eggnog?
While almond milk can work in a pinch, it won’t provide the same rich, creamy flavor that eggnog offers. If you want to keep that classic holiday taste, it’s best to stick with real eggnog for this recipe.
What type of nuts can I substitute for pecans?
Walnuts or almonds make great alternatives to pecans if you prefer. They add a similar crunch and nutty flavor that complements the spices in the bread beautifully.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! You can use a dairy-free eggnog and a neutral oil like coconut or vegetable oil to keep it moist. Just be sure your eggnog substitute matches the sweetness so the bread doesn’t turn out bland.
How long does the bread keep fresh?
Stored in an airtight container, the bread stays fresh at room temperature for about three days. If you want to extend its life, freezing is a great option.
Can I add dried fruit or chocolate chips?
Absolutely! Dried cranberries, raisins, or chocolate chips can be folded into the batter before baking for an enjoyable twist on the classic Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe is truly a holiday gem that brings warmth, spice, and nostalgia into every slice. I encourage you to give it a try, whether for a festive breakfast, an afternoon treat, or a hostess gift. It’s a wonderful way to celebrate the season’s flavors, and I promise it will quickly become a beloved part of your holiday traditions.
Print
Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings 1x
Description
This festive Christmas Eggnog Bread is a moist and flavorful holiday treat, infused with classic seasonal spices and rich eggnog. Perfect for breakfast or dessert, this quick bread combines warm notes of nutmeg and cinnamon with the creamy sweetness of eggnog, making it a delightful addition to your holiday celebrations.
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon salt
Wet Ingredients
- 1 cup eggnog
- ½ cup vegetable oil
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Add-ins
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick during baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, thoroughly mix the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well blended.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined to avoid overmixing, which could make the bread tough. If using, fold in the chopped pecans carefully.
- Prepare for Baking: Pour the batter evenly into the greased loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the bread comes out clean, indicating it is fully cooked.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing and serving.
Notes
- Chopped pecans are optional but add a nice crunch and nutty flavor.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
- Use freshly grated nutmeg for a more vibrant flavor if available.
- Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Category: Quick Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
