If you’re looking for a cozy, festive treat that brings the warm flavors of the holidays right into your kitchen, the Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. This bread captures the rich creaminess and nostalgic spices of classic eggnog in a soft, tender loaf that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family. From its inviting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg to the delightful texture studded with pecans, this recipe combines simplicity with indulgence in a way that will make your holiday season extra special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the ingredients for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. You’ll appreciate how basic pantry staples come together with the beloved taste of eggnog to create something truly magical.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the structure and body for the bread, ensuring a tender crumb.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds essential sweetness and helps with browning.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Brings a subtle molasses flavor and moistness.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Ensures the bread rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg: Infuses a warm, aromatic spice that’s classic to holiday eggnog.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Complements the nutmeg with a familiar festive spice punch.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- 1 cup eggnog: The star ingredient that brings richness, moisture, and that unmistakable holiday flavor.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender without altering its flavor.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness for a perfect crumb.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle depth and sweet aroma.
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional): Gives a delightful crunch and nutty contrast if you choose to include them.
How to Make Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly, which helps ensure your bread comes out cleanly and keeps its shape perfectly. This simple preparation step avoids any sticky frustrations later on.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Incorporating these dry ingredients well not only combines the flavors smoothly but also distributes the leavening agents evenly, which results in an even rise and consistent texture.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until everything is thoroughly blended. This mixture adds the moist, tender base for your bake and infuses it with that unmistakable Christmas eggnog flavor.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Ingredients Together
Pour the wet mix into the dry mixture and gently stir just until combined. Be careful not to overmix because that can make the bread tough instead of tender. If you’re using chopped pecans, fold them in at this stage to add a satisfying crunch to the loaf.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan. Smooth the top with a spatula, then pop it in the oven. Bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. This baking time ensures a moist interior with a slightly golden crust that beckons you to slice in.
Step 6: Cool and Enjoy
Once out of the oven, allow your Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set properly, making it easier to slice and enjoy without crumbling.
How to Serve Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Serving this bread with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of cream cheese glaze can elevate its presentation and sweetness. For an extra festive touch, consider sprinkling some crushed pecans or a sprinkle of cinnamon on top right before serving.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a hot cup of coffee, spiced tea, or even a glass of chilled eggnog. It also makes a charming complement to a holiday brunch spread featuring fresh fruit, cheeses, and perhaps a touch of savory ham or smoked salmon to balance the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thickly and serve on a festive platter garnished with holly leaves and cranberries for holiday cheer. You can also turn it into a decadent French toast for a Christmas morning twist by dipping the slices in eggnog and eggs before pan-frying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once completely cooled, store leftover bread tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. It will keep fresh at room temperature for up to three days, making it a great option for preparing in advance for holiday gatherings.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it well with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place it in a freezer-safe bag or container, and it will stay delicious for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature when ready to enjoy.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for just seconds to revive that fresh-baked feel. Heating enhances the comforting aromas and makes the bread even more inviting, particularly on a chilly winter morning.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works great and provides that classic holiday flavor. Just ensure it’s fresh and well mixed before adding to your recipe.
Is it possible to make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, with some adjustments. Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose baking blend, but be mindful this can slightly affect texture. Adding a binding agent like xanthan gum may help improve the crumb.
Can I add other nuts or dried fruits?
Definitely! Chopped walnuts, almonds, or dried cranberries would all add delightful flavor and texture. Just fold them in with the pecans or as a substitute to suit your taste.
How long does this bread stay fresh?
Properly stored at room temperature, this bread is best consumed within three days for optimal flavor and texture. Refrigeration can extend freshness but may dry the bread out slightly.
Can I turn this bread into muffins or mini loaves?
Yes, you can! Adjust the baking time accordingly—muffins usually take about 18-22 minutes, and mini loaves around 35-40 minutes. Keep an eye on them and use a toothpick to test doneness.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe is truly one of those special seasonal treats that fills your kitchen with festive spirit and fills your heart with warmth. It’s easy, rewarding, and perfect for sharing the joy of the holidays with loved ones. Give it a try—you may just find a new favorite holiday tradition!
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Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: 10 servings
- Category: Bread
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This festive Christmas Eggnog Bread is a moist, flavorful holiday treat perfect for sharing with family and friends. Combining classic holiday spices with creamy eggnog, this quick bread offers a tender crumb and a touch of warmth, enhanced by optional crunchy pecans for added texture. Baked to a golden perfection, it’s an ideal companion to your holiday morning coffee or a delightful dessert throughout the festive season.
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
Optional
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure the bread does not stick and can be removed easily after baking.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt until evenly combined to distribute the leavening and spices throughout.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, beat together the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogenous, which helps create a tender bread texture.
- Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined; be careful not to overmix to avoid a dense bread. Fold in the chopped pecans if you choose to add them for an extra crunch.
- Transfer to Pan: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly to ensure uniform baking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating the bread is fully cooked.
- Cool: Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes to set, then transfer it onto a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to maintain its shape and texture.
Notes
- Chopped pecans are optional but add delightful texture and flavor.
- For a non-alcoholic version, use alcohol-free eggnog or homemade eggnog without spirits.
- Make sure not to overmix the batter to keep the bread light and fluffy.
- This bread can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days at room temperature or refrigerated for up to a week.
- Reheat slices briefly in the microwave or toaster oven for a warm treat.
