Christmas Eggnog Bread

This Christmas Eggnog Bread is a festive holiday favorite rich, moist, and brimming with the cozy flavors of creamy eggnog, warm nutmeg, and a hint of rum essence. Each slice is soft, buttery, and full of nostalgic Christmas charm, perfect for gifting, brunches, or enjoying with a warm cup of coffee by the fire.

Ingredients:

• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 cup eggnog
• 2 tbsp rum flavor extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. Mix the wet ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until smooth and creamy.
3. Add flavor: Stir in the melted butter, eggnog, rum flavor extract, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
4. Combine dry ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
5. Bring it together: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring just until no dry streaks remain.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top. Bake for 55–60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
7. Cool and serve: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

Variations

• Eggnog Glaze: Whisk together powdered sugar and a splash of eggnog for a sweet drizzle that enhances the festive flavor. It adds a beautiful finish and a touch of holiday sparkle.
• Nutty Delight: Add 1/2 cup of chopped pecans or walnuts to the batter for a subtle crunch and toasty richness.
• Spiced Twist: For extra warmth, add 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of cloves to the dry ingredients. This deepens the cozy, spiced aroma of the bread.

Cooking Notes

• The bread will continue to cook slightly as it cools, so avoid overbaking check doneness with a toothpick around the 55-minute mark.
• If using dark loaf pans, reduce baking time by 5 minutes as they tend to bake faster.
• This recipe freezes beautifully! Wrap cooled slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months perfect for make-ahead holiday treats.

Serving Suggestions

• Breakfast Treat: Serve warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of maple syrup for a comforting Christmas morning breakfast.
• Holiday Dessert: Top with whipped cream and a dusting of nutmeg for an elegant dessert after dinner.
• Gift Idea: Wrap in festive paper or cellophane and tie with ribbon a delicious homemade gift for neighbors, teachers, or friends.

Tips

• Alcohol-Free Option: The recipe uses rum flavor extract instead of real rum, keeping it kid-friendly and suitable for everyone.
• Add Sweet Toppings: A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a simple glaze adds a professional bakery-style finish.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Make sure your eggs and butter are at room temperature for the best texture and even mixing.
• Storage: Store covered at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for up to a week to maintain freshness.

Prep Time:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 320 kcal
• Protein: 5 g
• Sodium: 190 mg

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use real rum instead of rum extract?
   Yes! You can replace the rum extract with 1–2 tablespoons of dark or spiced rum for a stronger flavor (optional for adults).
2. Can I make this recipe into muffins?
   Absolutely pour the batter into a muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and set.
3. How do I know when my bread is done?
   A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs not wet batter.
4. Can I use store-bought or homemade eggnog?
   Either works! Homemade eggnog adds a richer taste, but store-bought makes it simple and just as delicious.

Conclusion

This Christmas Eggnog Bread captures the very spirit of the season sweet, cozy, and full of holiday warmth. Whether served as a morning treat, shared at a festive brunch, or wrapped as a heartfelt gift, it’s a simple yet delightful way to spread Christmas cheer with every slice.

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