Introduction to Eggnog Bread

As the holiday season approaches, I find myself craving the warm, cozy flavors that make this time of year so special. One of my absolute favorites is Eggnog Bread. This delightful quick bread is not only a festive treat but also a simple solution for busy days filled with holiday hustle. Imagine the aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen, inviting your loved ones to gather around. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a slice with your morning coffee, this Eggnog Bread is sure to bring joy to your table.

Eggnog Bread: Discover the Irresistible Holiday Delight!

Print Recipe

Eggnog Bread is a festive and moist quick bread infused with the rich flavors of eggnog, perfect for the holiday season.

Author: Chef Samantha
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Category: Baked Goods
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup sugar
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup eggnog
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

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Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
In another bowl, cream the butter, then add the eggnog, eggs, and vanilla extract, mixing well.
Combine the wet ingredients with the dry ingredients until just mixed.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Notes

For added flavor, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts to the batter.
This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to a week.
Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze for extra sweetness.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Bread

This Eggnog Bread is a true holiday gem! It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy moms and professionals like us. In just over an hour, you can have a warm, moist loaf that fills your home with festive cheer. The rich flavors of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon create a delightful taste that will have everyone asking for seconds. Trust me, this bread is a holiday must-have!

Ingredients for Eggnog Bread

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Eggnog Bread masterpiece. Here’s what you’ll need:

All-purpose flour: The backbone of your bread, providing structure and a soft texture.
Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps create that lovely golden crust.
Baking powder: A leavening agent that gives your bread a light, fluffy rise.
Baking soda: Works alongside baking powder to ensure your bread rises perfectly.
Salt: Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness.
Ground nutmeg: Adds a warm, spicy note that’s quintessentially holiday.
Ground cinnamon: Infuses the bread with a comforting aroma and flavor.
Unsalted butter: Provides richness and moisture, making the bread tender.
Eggnog: The star ingredient! It brings that creamy, festive flavor we all love.
Large eggs: Help bind the ingredients together and add moisture.
Vanilla extract: A splash of vanilla enhances the overall flavor profile.

For those looking to get creative, consider adding chocolate chips or nuts for an extra crunch. If you’re short on time, you can even use store-bought eggnog. The exact measurements for these ingredients can be found at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Eggnog Bread

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step is crucial for getting that perfect rise. While the oven warms up, grab a loaf pan and grease it well. You can use butter or cooking spray to ensure your Eggnog Bread slides out easily once it’s baked. Trust me, no one wants a loaf that sticks!

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. This is where the magic begins! Mixing these dry ingredients well ensures that your Eggnog Bread will rise evenly and have a delightful flavor throughout. The nutmeg and cinnamon will make your kitchen smell heavenly!

Step 3: Cream Butter and Combine Wet Ingredients

In another bowl, cream the softened unsalted butter until it’s light and fluffy. This step adds richness to your bread. Next, mix in the eggnog, large eggs, and vanilla extract. Stir until everything is well combined. The eggnog is the star here, bringing that creamy, festive flavor that makes this bread so special!

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Now, it’s time to bring the two mixtures together. Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Gently mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine! This will keep your Eggnog Bread moist and tender.

Step 5: Pour and Bake

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Pop it into the preheated oven and bake for 50-60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma wafting through your home will be irresistible!

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This helps it set and makes it easier to remove. After that, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. When you’re ready to serve, slice it up and enjoy! A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of glaze can add a lovely touch.

Tips for Success

Make sure your ingredients are at room temperature for better mixing.
Don’t skip the greasing step; it prevents sticking!
Check your bread a few minutes before the timer goes off to avoid overbaking.
Let the bread cool completely before slicing for cleaner cuts.
Store leftovers in an airtight container to keep it fresh and moist.

Equipment Needed

Loaf pan: A standard 9×5 inch pan works best, but any similar size will do.
Mixing bowls: Use one large bowl for dry ingredients and another for wet.
Whisk: A simple whisk or fork will help combine your ingredients.
Spatula: Perfect for pouring and smoothing the batter.
Cooling rack: If you don’t have one, a plate will work in a pinch!

Variations

Chocolate Chip Eggnog Bread: Add a cup of semi-sweet chocolate chips to the batter for a delightful twist.
Nuts Galore: Fold in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Gluten-Free Option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a delicious alternative.
Spiced Eggnog Bread: Enhance the spices by adding a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for extra warmth.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use plant-based butter and eggnog for a vegan-friendly treat.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Eggnog Bread with a warm cup of spiced chai or coffee for a cozy treat.
Serve slices with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
For a festive touch, garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

FAQs about Eggnog Bread

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using store-bought eggnog can save you time and still deliver that delicious flavor. Just make sure to choose a quality brand for the best results.

How should I store leftover Eggnog Bread?

To keep your Eggnog Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature. It should stay moist for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage!

Can I make Eggnog Bread ahead of time?

Yes! This bread actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can bake it a day or two in advance and simply warm it up before serving.

What can I serve with Eggnog Bread?

Eggnog Bread pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee or spiced tea. You can also enjoy it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream for a festive dessert.

Is Eggnog Bread suitable for a gluten-free diet?

Yes! You can easily make a gluten-free version by substituting all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend. Just ensure that your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

As I reflect on my journey with Eggnog Bread, I can’t help but smile. This recipe has become a cherished tradition in my home, bringing warmth and joy to our holiday gatherings. The delightful aroma fills the air, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites laughter and love. Each slice is a reminder of the simple pleasures in life, perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or as a festive dessert, this Eggnog Bread is more than just a treat; it’s a celebration of togetherness and the magic of the season.