Eggnog Bread is the ultimate holiday treat — moist, rich, and infused with the warm flavors of nutmeg, vanilla, and creamy eggnog. This festive loaf captures the essence of Christmas in every bite, combining the comforting texture of a quick bread with the nostalgic taste of traditional eggnog. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or as a homemade gift, Eggnog Bread is a simple yet elegant addition to any holiday table.
The beauty of Eggnog Bread lies in its simplicity. It requires no yeast, no complicated steps, and can be made in under an hour. The eggnog adds moisture and richness, while the spices bring warmth and depth. The result is a tender, flavorful loaf that fills the kitchen with the scent of the holidays.
This recipe works because it balances sweetness, spice, and texture. The eggnog provides creaminess, the butter adds richness, and the nutmeg and cinnamon create that signature holiday aroma. A drizzle of eggnog glaze on top adds the perfect finishing touch.
Ingredients and Their Roles
All-purpose flour: Provides structure and a tender crumb.
Baking powder: Helps the bread rise and stay light.
Salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
Nutmeg and cinnamon: Add warmth and spice.
Butter: Adds richness and moisture.
Sugar: Sweetens the bread and helps with browning.
Eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure.
Eggnog: The star ingredient, adding flavor and creaminess.
Vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma.
Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients (for one 9×5-inch loaf)
2¼ cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
½ tsp salt
½ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp cinnamon
¾ cup granulated sugar
½ cup unsalted butter, softened
2 large eggs
1 cup eggnog
1 tsp vanilla extract
For the glaze:
½ cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp eggnog
Pinch of nutmeg
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
- Mix the dry ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Set aside. - Cream the butter and sugar
In a large bowl, beat the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract. - Add the eggnog
Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the eggnog. Begin and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined — do not overmix. - Bake the bread
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely. - Prepare the glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, eggnog, and nutmeg until smooth. Drizzle over the cooled bread.
Tips for Perfect Eggnog Bread
Use full-fat eggnog for the richest flavor.
Do not overmix the batter to keep the bread tender.
Let the bread cool completely before glazing.
Add a splash of rum extract for a classic eggnog twist.
Store the bread tightly wrapped to maintain moisture.
Variations and Flavor Combinations
Classic Eggnog Bread: Traditional version with nutmeg and vanilla.
Eggnog Cranberry Bread: Add ½ cup dried cranberries for tartness.
Eggnog Pecan Bread: Stir in ½ cup chopped pecans for crunch.
Chocolate Chip Eggnog Bread: Add ½ cup mini chocolate chips for sweetness.
Eggnog Rum Bread: Add 1 tbsp rum or rum extract for a festive flavor.
Glazed Eggnog Loaf: Double the glaze for extra sweetness and shine.
Serving Suggestions
Eggnog Bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or dessert. Serve it warm with butter, cream cheese, or a dusting of powdered sugar. It pairs beautifully with coffee, hot chocolate, or a glass of eggnog. For a festive touch, serve slices with whipped cream and a sprinkle of nutmeg.
Make-Ahead and Storage
Make-ahead: Bake the bread a day in advance and glaze before serving.
Storage: Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before serving.
Nutritional Information (per slice)
Calories: 230 kcal
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Sugar: 16 g
Fat: 10 g
Protein: 4 g
The History of Eggnog Bread
Eggnog Bread is a modern twist on traditional holiday quick breads, inspired by the classic Christmas beverage. Eggnog itself dates back to 17th-century England, where it was enjoyed as a rich, spiced milk punch. Over time, bakers began incorporating eggnog into cakes, muffins, and breads to capture its festive flavor in baked form. Today, Eggnog Bread is a beloved seasonal treat that combines the nostalgia of eggnog with the comfort of homemade baking.
Flavor and Texture Profile
The perfect Eggnog Bread is moist, tender, and aromatic. The eggnog gives it a creamy texture and subtle sweetness, while the nutmeg and cinnamon add warmth. The glaze adds a touch of sweetness and shine, making each slice rich yet balanced. The flavor is reminiscent of holiday gatherings, cozy mornings, and the comforting scent of baking spices.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Dry bread: Do not overbake; check for doneness early.
Dense texture: Avoid overmixing the batter.
Cracked top: Bake at the correct temperature and avoid overfilling the pan.
Overly sweet: Reduce sugar slightly or skip the glaze.
Flat flavor: Use fresh nutmeg and high-quality vanilla extract.
Baker’s Tips
Use room-temperature ingredients for even mixing.
Add a tablespoon of sour cream for extra moisture.
Dust the top with cinnamon sugar before baking for a sweet crust.
Double the recipe to make one loaf for gifting and one for yourself.
Wrap slices individually for easy grab-and-go breakfasts.
Pairing Ideas
With Drinks: Pair with coffee, chai tea, or eggnog latte.
>With Food: Serve alongside fruit salad, yogurt, or holiday cookies.
>With Occasions: Perfect for Christmas morning, brunch, or as a homemade gift.
The Joy of Holiday Baking
Eggnog Bread embodies the joy of holiday baking — simple ingredients transformed into something special. The aroma of nutmeg and vanilla fills the kitchen, creating a sense of warmth and nostalgia. It’s a recipe that brings people together, whether shared at breakfast or given as a thoughtful homemade gift. Baking Eggnog Bread is more than making dessert; it’s creating a moment of comfort and celebration.
The Science of Moist Quick Breads
The moist texture of Eggnog Bread comes from the balance of fat, sugar, and liquid. Butter and eggnog provide richness, while sugar retains moisture. The baking powder ensures a light rise, and the eggs bind everything together. Mixing the batter gently prevents gluten development, keeping the crumb soft and tender.
Presentation and Finishing Touches
For a beautiful presentation, drizzle the glaze in a zigzag pattern and sprinkle with a pinch of nutmeg. Add a few sugared cranberries or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive look. For gifting, wrap the cooled loaf in parchment paper and tie with a ribbon. Include a handwritten tag for a personal touch.
Modern Variations
Keto Version: Use almond flour and sugar-free sweeteners.
Vegan Version: Replace butter with coconut oil and eggnog with almond milk nog.
Gluten-Free Version: Use a gluten-free flour blend.
Low-Sugar Version: Reduce sugar and use a light glaze.
Gourmet Version: Add a swirl of cream cheese filling for richness.
The Perfect Slice
The perfect slice of Eggnog Bread is moist, fragrant, and golden. The crumb is tender, the glaze sweet and glossy, and the flavor perfectly balanced between spice and creaminess. Each bite evokes the warmth of the holidays — cozy mornings, twinkling lights, and the comfort of homemade baking.
Conclusion
Eggnog Bread is moist, spiced, and perfectly festive — a holiday classic that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite. With its rich flavor, tender crumb, and simple preparation, it’s a recipe that belongs in every baker’s collection. Whether enjoyed fresh from the oven, shared with loved ones, or wrapped as a gift, Eggnog Bread brings warmth and joy to the season. This recipe proves that the simplest ingredients can create the most memorable moments — a true celebration of holiday flavor, comfort, and tradition.
