If you’re looking for a cozy, festive treat that wraps up all the warm flavors of the season in one delightful package, this Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender, moist bread infused with the creamy richness of eggnog, spiced just right with nutmeg and cinnamon, and dotted with crunchy pecans for that perfect holiday crunch. It’s an irresistible way to bring the magic of Christmas morning into your kitchen and onto your table, great for sharing with family, friends, or anyone who loves a little sweetness alongside their coffee or tea.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together effortlessly to create a bread full of festive flavor and comforting texture. Each component plays a vital role, from the warm spices to the rich eggnog, making every bite truly special.
- 2 cups all-purpose flour: The foundation that gives your bread structure and softness.
- ½ cup granulated sugar: Adds balanced sweetness without overpowering the eggnog flavor.
- ½ cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, caramel-like richness and moisture to the bread.
- 2 teaspoons baking powder: Provides the necessary rise for a fluffy texture.
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg: Offers that classic, spicy warmth associated with holiday eggnog.
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon: Enhances the bread’s overall cozy, aromatic profile.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and boosts the other flavors.
- 1 cup eggnog: The star ingredient that makes this bread uniquely festive and creamy.
- ½ cup vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- 2 large eggs: Bind the ingredients together and add richness.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a subtle hint of warmth and depth.
- ½ cup chopped pecans (optional): Introduces a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that complements the spices.
How to Make Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan thoroughly to ensure your beautiful bread doesn’t stick after baking. This small prep step makes all the difference for a perfect loaf.
Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Whisking these together evenly distributes the spices and leavening, ensuring every slice has a perfect balance of flavor and rise.
Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl, blend the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and combined. The eggnog lends this bread its signature creamy, rich taste, so mixing it well is key to an even, tender crumb.
Step 4: Bring Wet and Dry Together
Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and fold gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix—this keeps your bread light and tender. Now is the time to gently fold in the chopped pecans if you’re adding that welcome crunch.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pour the batter evenly into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top for an even bake. Place it in the oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma while it bakes will instantly make your kitchen feel like a holiday haven.
Step 6: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes—this helps it set up nicely. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing. This step is essential to achieving perfect slices without crumbling.
How to Serve Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe
Garnishes
Serving your Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe with just the right garnish can elevate the entire experience. A light dusting of powdered sugar enhances its festive look, while a drizzle of maple glaze adds a glossy, sweet finish that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Side Dishes
This bread pairs wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee, chai tea, or even hot cocoa to keep things extra cozy. You can also serve it alongside a fresh fruit salad to balance the richness with a bright pop of color and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread thick and arrange it on a rustic wooden board with a holiday-themed napkin for an inviting presentation. Or, toast slices lightly and offer small pats of cinnamon honey butter on the side for guests to spread. The options for sharing this festive marvel are endless and always well loved!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe, wrap any leftovers tightly in plastic wrap or place in an airtight container to keep it fresh. Store it at room temperature and consume within 3 to 4 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then foil or place in a freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead treat for a busy holiday season.
Reheating
To bring back that fresh-from-the-oven warmth, thaw frozen slices at room temperature and reheat them in a toaster or oven at a low temperature. This will revive the bread’s moist, tender texture and warm those wonderful holiday spices.
FAQs
Can I substitute dairy-free eggnog in this recipe?
Absolutely! Dairy-free or even homemade eggnog alternatives work perfectly in this Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe, just make sure your substitute has a similar consistency to keep the bread moist.
What if I don’t have pecans? Can I leave them out?
Yes, pecans are optional. The bread will still taste wonderful without them, but if you want a bit of crunch, feel free to swap in walnuts or almonds instead.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
You can use a gluten-free all-purpose baking flour blend as a 1-to-1 replacement for regular flour. Just check that your baking powder is gluten-free as well.
How long does this bread stay fresh?
Stored properly at room temperature in an airtight container, your Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe will stay fresh and delicious for up to four days.
Can I add other spices or flavorings?
Definitely! Some people like adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger to boost the holiday spice, or even a splash of rum extract to deepen the eggnog flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Christmas Eggnog Bread Recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings the festive spirit into the heart of your home. The combination of creamy eggnog, warming spices, and tender bread makes it perfect for holiday mornings or gifting to someone special. I truly encourage you to give it a try—the smiles and compliments around your table will be unforgettable!
Print
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 quick bread infused with classic holiday spices and rich eggnog. Perfect for breakfast or a sweet snack during the holiday season, it combines warm cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla with the creamy texture of eggnog. Optional pecans add a delightful crunch, making this loaf both comforting and celebratory.
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
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 doesn’t stick.
- Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. This evenly distributes the leavening agents and spices throughout the bread.
- Combine Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, mix the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and homogeneous, which will create a moist and flavorful base for the batter.
- Combine Wet and Dry: Pour the wet ingredients into the bowl with the dry ingredients and gently stir until just combined to avoid overmixing, which can cause a dense texture. Fold in the chopped pecans if you are using them for added texture and flavor.
- Transfer Batter: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly to ensure consistent baking.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, indicating doneness.
- Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes to set. Then, transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing to maintain the bread’s structure and texture.
Notes
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle powdered sugar over the cooled loaf or drizzle with a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and eggnog.
- If you prefer a nut-free version, omit the pecans without affecting the bread’s flavor.
- Store leftover bread wrapped tightly at room temperature for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
- Using room temperature eggs and eggnog helps the ingredients combine more smoothly.
