Nothing says the holidays quite like eggnog, and this Christmas Glazed Eggnog Bread brings all that cozy, festive flavor into a sweet, spiced loaf. It’s the perfect treat for breakfast, dessert, or gifting during the holiday season. I made this for our family Christmas brunch last year, and it didn’t disappoint! The house smelled amazing while it baked, and the flavor is like a cozy holiday hug in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Classic Holiday Flavor: The combination of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon makes this bread taste like Christmas in every bite.
- Simple and Festive: This recipe is easy to make, yet it delivers big on flavor—perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting.
- Delicious Glaze: The eggnog glaze adds an extra layer of sweetness and holiday cheer.
- Moist and Tender: Thanks to the eggnog and vegetable oil, this bread stays soft and moist for days.
Ingredients
Eggnog Bread
- All-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, giving it structure and fluff.
- Baking powder & baking soda: Helps the bread rise to perfection.
- Salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavor.
- Nutmeg & cinnamon: Warm spices that give the bread its signature holiday flavor.
- Whole fat eggnog: Adds richness and holiday flavor.
- Granulated sugar: Sweetens the bread without overpowering the eggnog flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Keeps the bread moist and tender.
- Vanilla & rum extracts: Adds depth, with the rum extract giving it that extra holiday twist.
- Eggs: The binder that brings everything together.
Glaze
- Powdered sugar: For a sweet and smooth glaze that tops off the bread beautifully.
- Vanilla & rum extracts: Echoes the flavors in the bread and makes the glaze extra flavorful.
- Nutmeg: A hint of spice in the glaze to complement the bread.
- Eggnog: Adds richness and flavor to the glaze, bringing the whole dish together.
Variations
- Add-Ins: Feel free to fold in some chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts, or even dried cranberries for a festive twist.
- Lighter Option: You can substitute applesauce for half of the oil to make it a little lighter, though the texture will be slightly denser.
- Skip the Glaze: If you prefer a simpler loaf, you can leave off the glaze, and it will still be delicious.
How to Make the Recipe
1. Mix the Dry Ingredients
In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. These warm spices are key to giving the bread its Christmas flavor.
2. Combine the Wet Ingredients
In another bowl, whisk together the eggnog, sugar, vegetable oil, vanilla extract, rum extract, and eggs until fully combined. The eggnog adds both flavor and moisture, while the extracts bring in that holiday vibe.
3. Mix and Bake
Gently fold the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, mixing just until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix—this will keep the bread light and fluffy. Pour the batter into a prepared loaf pan and bake at 350°F for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
4. Cool the Bread
Once baked, let the bread cool in the pan for 20 minutes before removing it to a wire rack to cool completely. This helps the bread set and makes it easier to slice later.
5. Make the Glaze
While the bread is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, vanilla extract, rum extract, nutmeg, and enough eggnog to make a thick but pourable glaze. Drizzle the glaze slowly over the warm bread, letting it soak in slightly for maximum flavor.
6. Finish and Serve
Let the glaze set before slicing and serving. The bread is fantastic on its own, but pairing it with a hot cup of coffee or tea makes it the perfect holiday treat.
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overmix: Be gentle when combining the wet and dry ingredients—overmixing can make the bread tough.
- Cool Before Glazing: Let the bread cool a bit before glazing to prevent the glaze from running off completely.
- Use Full-Fat Eggnog: The richness of full-fat eggnog gives the bread the best flavor and texture.
How to Serve
This bread is best enjoyed with a hot beverage like coffee, tea, or even a mug of eggnog. It’s perfect for holiday breakfasts, desserts, or as a snack anytime during the festive season.
Make Ahead
- To Refrigerate: Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. The flavors actually improve over time, making it great for making ahead.
- To Freeze: You can freeze this bread, either glazed or unglazed. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and glaze before serving for the best texture.
- Storage: Store the glazed bread in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. It stays moist and delicious even after a few days in the fridge.
FAQs
1. Can I use low-fat eggnog?
Yes, but full-fat eggnog will give the bread a richer texture and more flavor.
2. Can I substitute the rum extract?
If you don’t have rum extract, you can substitute it with actual rum or just leave it out. The bread will still taste amazing.
3. How long does the bread stay fresh?
It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days, or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. Can I make this without the glaze?
Absolutely! The bread is still delicious without the glaze, though the glaze does add an extra touch of sweetness.
Conclusion
This Christmas Glazed Eggnog Bread is the ultimate holiday treat. With its warm spices, rich eggnog flavor, and sweet glaze, it’s sure to bring a festive touch to any gathering. Whether you’re making it for breakfast, dessert, or gifting to friends, this bread is guaranteed to be a holiday favorite!
