As I whisked the custard for my latest culinary experiment, an unexpected familiar scent wafted through my kitchen, instantly transporting me back to family gatherings filled with laughter and holiday cheer. This Eggnog Bread Pudding, rich with the comforting notes of nutmeg and cinnamon, is my secret weapon for turning any festive brunch into an unforgettable feast. It’s not just a dessert; it’s an enchanting blend of nostalgia and warmth, effortlessly transforming stale bread into a luscious treat. With the added perks of being a crowd-pleaser and easy to prep ahead, this decadent recipe is sure to earn a special place on your holiday table. Curious how to create this delightful dish? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is Eggnog Bread Pudding a Must-Try?
Comforting Beauty: This Eggnog Bread Pudding is a showstopper that combines the velvety richness of custard with the nostalgic flavors of the holidays.
Effortless Preparation: You’ll love how simple it is to prepare. Just mix ingredients and let the oven do the magic!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for both intimate family gatherings or larger holiday parties, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize it with your favorite add-ins like nuts or dried fruit for an extra burst of flavor.
Make-Ahead Convenience: This recipe allows you to prep ahead of time, reducing stress on busy holiday mornings. In the meantime, if you’re in the mood for more delicious recipes, try my Cream Cheese Bread or Cheesy Garbage Bread.
Indulge in this holiday classic that transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding:
- Stale Challah or Brioche Bread – Stale bread absorbs the custard beautifully; aim for bread that’s a day old for the best texture.
- Eggnog – Acts as the custard base; make sure it’s at room temperature for seamless mixing.
- Large Eggs – Essential for binding; use large, room-temperature eggs to achieve a rich custard.
- Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dish; adjust according to your taste preference for your eggnog bread pudding.
- Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile, enhancing the overall experience.
- Ground Cinnamon – Infuses warmth; increase the quantity for a more pronounced spice.
- Ground Nutmeg – Delivers classic holiday flavor; fresh nutmeg is best for maximum impact.
- Salt – Balances sweetness and enriches the dish’s overall flavor.
For Serving:
- Powdered Sugar – For a delightful dusting on top; adds a touch of sweetness and elegance.
- Whipped Cream or Eggnog Sauce – Perfect accompaniments for drizzling or dolloping over the warmth of this pudding.
Dive into making this delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding that promises to elevate your holiday gatherings!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to ensure the eggnog bread pudding doesn’t stick. This initial preparation is essential to get everything set for the perfect baking environment.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together until well-mixed. Then, add the large eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly after each addition. Gradually pour in the eggnog, ensuring a smooth custard mixture forms that enhances the flavors of your eggnog bread pudding.
Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Take your day-old challah or brioche bread and cut it into 1-inch cubes for optimal absorption. Place the bread cubes evenly into the prepared baking dish. Carefully pour the custard mixture over the bread, making sure to cover every piece. Gently toss the bread with a spatula to ensure even saturation, allowing the flavors of the eggnog bread pudding to blend beautifully.
Step 4: Allow the Pudding to Rest
To enhance flavor and texture, gently press down the bread mixture with your hands, ensuring it’s packed without being too tight. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting period allows the bread to soak up the custard fully, leading to a wonderfully creamy eggnog bread pudding.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Once the resting time is complete, remove the foil and place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. The eggnog bread pudding should puff up nicely, forming a deliciously cozy dish filled with holiday flavors.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the oven-safe dish and let the eggnog bread pudding cool for 20-30 minutes at room temperature. This cooling time helps set the pudding, making it easier to slice. For added flair, dust the top with powdered sugar, and serve warm with whipped cream or a drizzle of eggnog sauce to elevate your holiday dessert experience!
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Bread Pudding delights are the ultimate solution for busy holiday planners! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance by following the initial steps—mix the custard and pour it over the bread cubes, then cover it with foil. Simply refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. For optimum texture, avoid baking until you’re ready to serve, ensuring it maintains its creamy consistency. When it’s time to enjoy, bake the pudding right from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time. You’ll have an effortlessly delicious dessert that’s just as delightful as if it were freshly made!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to explore new flavors and textures with these delightful customization ideas!
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Add-ins: Consider adding raisins or chopped nuts for a delightful crunch and chewy texture. They add a wonderful contrast to the creamy pudding.
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Flavor Swaps: Try using almond extract instead of vanilla for an unexpected twist. You can also incorporate fresh orange or lemon zest to brighten up the flavors.
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Chocolate Lovers: Add semi-sweet chocolate chips for a rich and indulgent variation. Chocolate and eggnog make an enchanting pairing you won’t want to miss!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute regular eggnog with almond or coconut milk eggnog. This change still keeps the essence of holiday flavors while catering to dairy sensitivities.
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Spiced Up: For a hint of heat, incorporate a splash of spiced rum or bourbon into your custard mixture. It infuses warmth and an extra layer of sophistication.
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Crispy Topping: Mix crushed gingersnap cookies or pecans with melted butter, then sprinkle on top before baking to add a delightful crunchy texture.
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Pumpkin Twist: Add a dollop of pumpkin puree into the custard for a seasonal spin. Combine it with a sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice for a unique holiday flavor.
While you’re here, if you’re in the mood to explore more delicious recipes, consider trying my Warm Cinnamon Bread or Cheddar Jalapeno Cornbread.
Let your creativity shine as you make this festive dish uniquely yours!
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover eggnog bread pudding in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days to maintain its delicious flavor and texture.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the pudding in individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through, ensuring you enjoy its warm, custardy goodness again.
What to Serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Indulging in eggnog bread pudding is a delightful experience, and pairing it with the right sides can elevate your festive feast even further.
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Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Juicy, sweet apples sautéed with cinnamon create a warm, contrasting flavor that’s festive and comforting.
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Rich Creamy Eggnog Sauce: Drizzle this luscious sauce over the pudding for a delightful, extra touch of holiday spirit.
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Warm Vanilla Custard: A silky, custardy sauce adds another layer of warmth and sweetness, making each bite even more indulgent.
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Fresh Berries: A medley of tart berries can cut through the richness of the pudding, providing a fresh and zesty balance.
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Chopped Pecans: Toasted pecans add a delightful crunch, enhancing the texture of the pudding and offering nutty flavor notes.
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Whipped Cream: Fluffy, lightly sweetened whipped cream is a classic topping that adds a light and airy complement to the dense pudding.
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Spiced Hot Chocolate: A warm, spiced beverage brings additional cozy flavors, perfect for sipping while enjoying your decadent dessert.
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Pumpkin Pie: For a true holiday feast, pair with a classic pumpkin pie, balancing the rich eggnog flavor with autumn’s favorite dessert.
Expert Tips for Perfect Eggnog Bread Pudding
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Stale Bread Essential: Ensure your bread is at least a day old; it absorbs the custard better. If your bread is fresh, toast cubes for 10-14 minutes at 350°F.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Use eggs and eggnog at room temperature; this helps create a smoother custard, enhancing the texture of your eggnog bread pudding.
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Soaking Time Matters: Don’t skip the resting period; letting the bread soak in the custard for 30 minutes ensures a creamier texture.
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Check for Doneness: Use a knife or toothpick to test for doneness; insert it into the center, and it should come out clean, with the internal temperature reaching 160°F.
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Customize Your Pudding: Experiment with add-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruits, or nuts to personalize your eggnog bread pudding and surprise your guests.
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Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, or freeze portions for up to 3 months for a delicious treat later!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How should I choose the right bread for eggnog bread pudding?
Absolutely! For the best texture, use stale challah or brioche bread, ideally a day old. This allows it to soak up the custard without turning mushy. If you have fresh bread, I recommend cutting it into cubes and lightly toasting it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-14 minutes to achieve a drier consistency.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
For optimal freshness, store leftover eggnog bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing. This way, you can enjoy those delicious flavors for days to come!
Can I freeze eggnog bread pudding?
Certainly! To freeze, cut the cooled pudding into individual portions. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and store in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my eggnog bread pudding is too soggy?
If you find your bread pudding turns out soggy, it may be due to using fresh bread or not allowing it to rest long enough. Next time, ensure you use stale bread and let it absorb the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes. This soaking helps create that ideal custardy texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for eggnog bread pudding?
For those with dietary restrictions, feel free to tweak the recipe! If you’re concerned about egg allergies, you might try an egg replacement like a flaxseed mixture or silken tofu. Additionally, for lactose intolerance, look for dairy-free eggnog options available in most grocery stores or make your own.
Can I prepare eggnog bread pudding in advance?
Very much so! You can assemble the bread pudding the night before and refrigerate it, covered, without baking. Just remember to let it absorb for 30 minutes before starting the baking process the next day for a deliciously easy brunch delight!
Irresistible Eggnog Bread Pudding for Cozy Holiday Moments
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until well-mixed. Add the eggs one at a time, whisking thoroughly, then gradually pour in the eggnog.
- Place the cubed bread evenly into the prepared baking dish and pour the custard mixture over it. Toss gently to ensure even saturation.
- Press down the mixture gently and cover with aluminum foil. Allow it to rest for 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Remove the foil and bake for 45-55 minutes, until golden brown and a knife comes out clean.
- Let it cool for 20-30 minutes, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm with whipped cream or eggnog sauce.
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