Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe

Festive Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe That’s Cozy & Sweet

Crafting delightful christmas eggnog bread during festive seasons brings pure joy to kitchen adventures.

Warm spices and creamy flavors dance through this delectable treat.

Holiday traditions often spark magical culinary memories for everyone.

Nostalgic aromas fill your kitchen with comforting warmth and cheer.

Soft, tender crumbs promise a delicious experience that celebrates seasonal happiness.

Rich and luxurious, this recipe connects generations through sweet shared moments.

You’ll want to savor every delectable slice with loved ones.

What You’ll Need For Christmas Eggnog Bread

For the Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure and texture to the recipe.
  • Baking Powder: A leavening agent that helps the bread rise and become light and fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and balances the sweetness of the bread.
  • Nutmeg: Adds a warm, aromatic spice that complements the holiday flavor profile.
  • Cinnamon: Provides a classic holiday warmth and depth to the bread's taste.
For the Wet Ingredients:
  • Butter: Creates a rich, tender crumb and adds moisture to the bread.
  • Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps with caramelization during baking.
  • Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and contribute to the bread's structure and richness.
  • Eggnog: Infuses the bread with a classic holiday flavor and additional moisture.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances the overall flavor of the bread.
For the Mix-Ins:
  • Pecans, Dried Cranberries: Provide texture, crunch, and bursts of festive flavor throughout the bread.

How To Bake Christmas Eggnog Bread With Ease

Step 1: Preheat Oven And Prepare Baking Pan

Set the oven to 350°F and thoroughly coat a 9×5-inch loaf pan with cooking spray or butter, making sure every corner is covered to prevent the bread from sticking.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

Sift the following ingredients into a large mixing bowl:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Baking powder
  • Salt
  • Ground nutmeg
  • Ground cinnamon

Ensure the mixture is free of lumps and well blended.

Step 3: Cream Butter And Sugar

In a separate bowl, beat the softened butter and sugar together until the mixture becomes light, airy, and creamy with a smooth consistency.

Step 4: Mix In Eggs

Crack the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition to create a silky, well-incorporated batter.

Step 5: Add Eggnog

Gently stir the eggnog into the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined to maintain the batter’s delicate texture.

Step 6: Combine Wet And Dry Ingredients

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, stirring minimally to prevent overmixing, which could make the bread tough.

Fold In Mix-Ins

Gently incorporate the following ingredients into the batter:
  • Vanilla extract
  • Chopped pecans
  • Dried cranberries

Distribute the mix-ins evenly throughout the batter.

Step 7: Transfer Batter To Pan

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, using a spatula to smooth the top and create an even surface.

Step 8: Bake The Bread

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.

Step 9: Cool And Serve

Remove the bread from the oven and let it rest in the pan for 10 minutes. Transfer to a wire rack and allow to cool completely. Slice and serve, savoring the festive holiday flavors.

Tips For Moist And Flavorful Christmas Eggnog Bread

  • Prep Pan Perfectly: Grease every nook and cranny of the loaf pan with butter or baking spray to ensure the bread releases smoothly without sticking.
  • Sift Dry Ingredients Carefully: Use a fine-mesh sieve when combining flour and spices to break up any clumps, creating a smoother, more consistent bread texture.
  • Blend Wet Ingredients Gently: Incorporate eggs and eggnog slowly to prevent curdling and maintain a silky, even batter that results in a tender crumb.
  • Minimize Mixing: Stir dry ingredients into wet mixture just until combined, stopping as soon as no flour streaks remain to keep the bread light and fluffy.
  • Control Baking Time: Check the bread a few minutes early and use the toothpick test, as oven temperatures can vary, preventing potential over-browning or dryness.

Festive Twists On Christmas Eggnog Bread

  • Gluten-Free Holiday Bread: Replace wheat flour with a gluten-free blend, ensuring the same tender texture while accommodating celiac or gluten-sensitive individuals.
  • Dairy-Free Eggnog Bread: Substitute dairy butter with coconut oil and use plant-based eggnog, maintaining the rich, creamy essence without animal products.
  • Nutty Alternative Bread: Swap pecans with almonds or walnuts, offering a different crunch and flavor profile while keeping the bread's festive spirit.
  • Low-Sugar Christmas Loaf: Reduce sugar content by using monk fruit sweetener or stevia, creating a lighter version suitable for those monitoring sugar intake.

What Goes Well With Christmas Eggnog Bread

  • Savor Holiday Pairings for Eggnog Bread
  • Boost Breakfast Bliss: Pair warm slices with rich, creamy vanilla bean yogurt and sprinkle extra chopped pecans on top for a delightful morning treat.
  • Craft Cozy Beverage Match: Serve alongside a steaming mug of spiced chai latte, where the warm cinnamon and nutmeg notes complement the bread's festive flavors perfectly.
  • Create Dessert Delight: Drizzle slices with bourbon-spiked caramel sauce and add a scoop of cinnamon ice cream for an indulgent after-dinner experience that elevates the bread's holiday essence.

How To Store Christmas Eggnog Bread Fresh

  • Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil for up to 5 days in an airtight container. Place in the coldest part of the refrigerator to maintain freshness.
  • Wrap individual slices or whole loaf in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. Prevent freezer burn by removing excess air from the bag.
  • Remove from freezer and let sit at room temperature for 1-2 hours. Alternatively, unwrap and reheat in the microwave for 20-30 seconds per slice, checking to avoid overheating.
  • Warm slices in a preheated 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes to restore moisture and bring back the bread's original soft texture.

FAQs About Christmas Eggnog Bread

  • Can I substitute the eggnog with another liquid?

Yes, you can use milk or a non-dairy alternative, but the distinctive eggnog flavor will be lost, changing the bread’s unique taste profile.

  • Are pecans necessary for this recipe?

No, pecans are optional. You can omit them or replace with walnuts, or skip nuts entirely without significantly affecting the bread’s texture.

  • How do I know if the bread is fully baked?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread. If it comes out with just a few moist crumbs, the bread is perfectly baked. If it’s wet with raw batter, continue baking.

  • Can I make this bread ahead of time?

Absolutely! The bread stays fresh at room temperature for 3-4 days when wrapped in plastic wrap or stored in an airtight container.

Why Christmas Eggnog Bread Tastes Like Holiday Cheer

  • Celebrate Holiday Cheer: Dive into a delightful bread that captures the essence of festive celebrations with its warm spices and seasonal ingredients.
  • Master Baking Technique: Learn a simple yet sophisticated method of combining ingredients that guarantees a moist, tender bread perfect for bakers of all skill levels.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap out pecans or cranberries with your favorite nuts or dried fruits to make this recipe uniquely yours, adding a personal touch to a classic holiday treat.
  • Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy as a breakfast companion, afternoon snack, or dessert, making this bread a flexible addition to your culinary repertoire that suits multiple occasions.
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Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe

Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 1 hour 15-20 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Festive holiday spirit springs to life in this Christmas Eggnog Bread, blending traditional seasonal flavors with comforting bakery magic. Warm spices and rich eggnog create a delightful treat that will make holiday mornings feel magical for you.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 cup eggnog
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter

Leavening and Spices:

  • 2 tsp baking powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup dried cranberries
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F and thoroughly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan, ensuring complete coverage to prevent sticking.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, sift together the flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon to eliminate any lumps and create a uniform dry mixture.
  3. In a separate bowl, cream the softened butter and sugar until the mixture becomes light and fluffy, creating a smooth base for the bread.
  4. Whisk the eggs into the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, incorporating fully after each addition to create a silky, well-blended batter.
  5. Gently fold the eggnog into the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined to maintain the batter’s delicate texture.
  6. Gradually incorporate the dry ingredients into the wet mixture, stirring minimally to avoid overworking the batter, which could result in a tough bread.
  7. Fold in the vanilla extract, chopped pecans, and dried cranberries, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.
  8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to ensure an even surface.
  9. Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
  10. Remove from the oven and let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
  11. Once cooled, slice and serve, enjoying the festive flavors of this holiday-inspired quick bread.

Notes

  • Ensure butter is at room temperature for smoother creaming and better incorporation with sugar, creating a more tender bread texture.
  • Swap out traditional eggnog with dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk for a lighter, vegan-friendly version that still captures holiday essence.
  • Test bread doneness by gently pressing the center – it should spring back slightly and not leave an indentation, indicating perfect baking.
  • Store wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for up to 3 days, or freeze for longer preservation without losing moisture or flavor.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 293
  • Sugar: 12 g
  • Sodium: 158 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 9 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 35 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 5 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Jackson Reid

Jackson Reid

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Single-serving recipe development
  • Global flavor fusion
  • Minimalist cooking techniques
  • Food photography and styling

Education

Holyoke Community College – HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute
Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focus: Farm-to-table cuisine, sustainable cooking practices, and hands-on kitchen training


Jackson’s love for cooking began one dish at a time. After earning his Culinary Arts Certificate from Holyoke Community College’s HCC-MGM Culinary Arts Institute, he focused on what mattered most: creating recipes that are simple to follow and full of flavor.
At 10 Below Ice Cream, Jackson brings together global influences and a less-is-more approach. His recipes reflect his belief that good food doesn’t need to be complicated; it just needs to make sense, taste great, and feel right.
When he’s not testing ingredients or adjusting seasonings, you’ll find him hiking near Asheville, exploring local markets, or chasing the best light for food photos.

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