Name: Eggnog Bread Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 3/4 cup sugar; 2 large eggs; 1 cup eggnog; 1/3 cup vegetable oil or melted butter; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 80 reviews

If you love the creamy, spiced warmth of holiday eggnog and want to enjoy those flavors in a soft, tender treat, this Eggnog Bread Recipe is an absolute must-try. It captures the essence of festive cheer in every bite, combining the richness of eggnog with cozy spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create a quick bread that feels like a warm hug during chilly days. Whether for a holiday breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a sweet gift, this bread brings the magic of Christmas baking right into your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A loaf-shaped cake with a golden brown crust is placed on a wooden board on a white marbled surface. The cake has thick white icing drizzled unevenly over the top, slowly dripping down the sides in thin layers. Next to the cake is a silver knife with an ornate handle resting on a red and white checkered cloth. In the background, a glass of milk is faintly visible, slightly blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Eggnog Bread Recipe is delightfully simple, relying on a handful of essential ingredients that all play a special role. Each one adds a unique texture, flavor, or richness, making the bread moist, flavorful, and utterly irresistible.

All-purpose flour: The base of the bread, providing structure and a tender crumb.
Baking powder: Helps the bread rise to a perfect, fluffy texture.
Salt: Enhances flavor balance and brings out the sweetness.
Nutmeg: Adds a warm, earthy spice that reminds you of holiday drinks.
Cinnamon: Offers that classic cozy spice note that pairs beautifully with eggnog.
Sugar: Sweetens the bread just right without overpowering the spices.
Eggs: Provide richness and help bind the batter together.
Eggnog: The star ingredient – creamy, flavorful, and packed with festive charm.
Vegetable oil or melted butter: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
Vanilla extract: Adds depth and enhances the sweet, spicy notes.

How to Make Eggnog Bread Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Pan

Start by setting your oven to 175°C (350°F). This ensures a perfectly even bake right from the start. Lightly grease a loaf pan to prevent sticking and make sure your bread slides out easily once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Getting this well combined now means every bite will have that consistent holiday spice flavor you’re looking for.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with sugar until slightly frothy. Then add the eggnog, vegetable oil (or melted butter, if you prefer a richer finish), and vanilla extract. This mixture is where the bread gets its signature rich flavor and moist texture.

Step 4: Blend Wet and Dry Mixtures

Gently fold the dry ingredients into the wet mix just until you no longer see flour streaks. Don’t overmix—this is key to keeping your bread tender rather than dense.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Resist the urge to open the oven door frequently to maintain a cozy baking environment.

Step 6: Cool Before Slicing

Once out of the oven, let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack. Cooling is crucial for clean slices and that wonderful texture we all love.

How to Serve Eggnog Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Enhance your Eggnog Bread Recipe with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze. For a special touch, sprinkle a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon on top to echo the spices inside.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of hot coffee, spiced tea, or a frothy cappuccino. If you want to turn it into a brunch treat, serve alongside fruit salad or creamy yogurt – the richness of the bread balances fresh and tangy flavors perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing and lightly toasting pieces, then spreading them with butter or cream cheese and a drizzle of honey. For festive gatherings, cut the bread into small cubes and serve as part of a dessert board with nuts, dried fruits, and slices of sharp cheddar cheese – it’s a fun way to mix sweet and savory!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Eggnog Bread stays moist and delicious when stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. If your kitchen is warm, keeping it wrapped in plastic wrap inside a sealed box will help preserve freshness.

Freezing

This Eggnog Bread Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to protect against freezer burn. It will keep well for up to three months. Thaw overnight at room temperature before serving.

Reheating

To reheat, pop slices into a toaster or warm gently in a microwave for 15-20 seconds. This refreshes the bread’s texture and brings out the spices’ aroma, making it taste freshly baked every time.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought eggnog or should it be homemade?

Either works wonderfully in this recipe! Store-bought eggnog adds convenience and consistent flavor, while homemade gives a personalized touch. Just make sure to use the same volume to keep the moisture balance right.

Is this bread suitable for gifting during the holidays?

Absolutely! The festive flavors and beautiful aroma make Eggnog Bread Recipe a perfect homemade gift. Wrap it in parchment paper tied with a ribbon for a charming presentation that anyone would love.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the batter?

Yes, add chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries to the batter before baking for extra texture and festive flavor notes. Just fold them in gently so the bread retains its tender crumb.

What if I don’t have cinnamon or nutmeg?

If you lack these spices, try substituting with pumpkin pie spice or allspice for a similarly warm, holiday vibe. The key is to use spices that complement the creamy eggnog base.

Is this bread dense or light?

Thanks to the baking powder and gentle mixing, this Eggnog Bread Recipe is tender and moist with a light crumb. It’s not as dense as a traditional fruitcake but still hearty enough to satisfy.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Eggnog Bread Recipe enough if you’re looking to bring the comforting flavors of the holiday season into your home in a super simple way. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels special without fuss, and once you try it, you’ll want it to become a festive staple in your baking rotation. Go on, treat yourself and your loved ones to a slice wrapped in all the warmth and sweetness of holiday magic!