Easy Eggnog Bread: Your New Favorite Christmas Bread Recipe!

Introduction

Eggnog Bread is a festive and delightful treat that perfectly captures the essence of the holiday season. This rich, moist bread is infused with the warm flavors of eggnog, nutmeg, and vanilla, making it an ideal choice for Christmas gatherings or cozy winter mornings. Easy to prepare and wonderfully aromatic, this Christmas bread recipe is sure to impress your family and friends, serving as a delicious addition to your holiday table.

Ingredients

Here's your shopping list for making Eggnog Bread:

- **Wet Ingredients**:

  - 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade)

  - ½ cup unsalted butter, melted

  - 2 large eggs (room temperature)

  - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

- **Dry Ingredients**:

  - 2 cups all-purpose flour

  - ¾ cup granulated sugar

  - 1 teaspoon baking powder

  - ½ teaspoon baking soda

  - ½ teaspoon salt

  - 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)

- **Optional Add-Ins**:

  - ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans

  - ½ cup dried cranberries or raisins

Notes on Ingredients:

- For the best flavor, use high-quality eggnog. You can also make your own for a more personalized touch.

- Feel free to customize this recipe with your favorite nuts or dried fruits to enhance texture and flavor.

Preparation Steps

1. **Preheat Oven**: Preheat your oven to **350°F (175°C)**. Grease a **9x5 inch loaf pan** or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.

2. **Mix Wet Ingredients**: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined.

3. **Combine Dry Ingredients**: In another bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg until evenly mixed.

4. **Combine Mixtures**: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; some lumps are okay.

5. **Add Optional Ingredients**: If using, fold in the chopped nuts and dried fruits gently into the batter.

Cooking Instructions

1. **Pour Batter into Pan**: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

2. **Bake**: Bake in the preheated oven for about **50-60 minutes**, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

3. **Cool**: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about **10 minutes**, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

### Tips for Perfect Eggnog Bread:

- Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick; if it comes out clean or with a few crumbs, your bread is ready.

- Allowing it to cool completely helps maintain moisture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Eggnog Bread can be served in various delightful ways:

- **Slice and Serve**: Enjoy slices plain or spread with butter for a comforting treat.

- **Toast It Up**: Lightly toast slices for added texture and serve with cream cheese frosting or whipped cream.

- **Holiday Brunch**: Serve alongside other festive treats like fruit salad or holiday pastries for an impressive brunch spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

- **How do I store leftover eggnog bread?**

   Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to three months.

- **Can I make this bread ahead of time?**

   Yes! Eggnog bread can be made a day in advance; it often tastes even better after sitting as flavors meld together.

Additional Tips

- For an extra festive touch, drizzle a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and eggnog over the cooled bread.

- Experiment with spices like cinnamon or ginger for added warmth and complexity.

- If you prefer a denser loaf, consider using whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour.

Wrap-Up

In summary, Eggnog Bread is a simple yet delightful Christmas bread recipe that brings warmth and cheer to any holiday gathering. With its easy preparation and deliciously rich flavor, it's perfect for celebrating the season with family and friends. Fun fact: Eggnog has been enjoyed since medieval times as a festive drink! Enjoy baking this wonderful holiday treat!

We’d love to hear how yours turns out! 💬 Share your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to follow our page for more delicious recipes and holiday inspiration. Your engagement means the world to us! 🌟✨