If you’re searching for a festive twist on a beloved classic, this Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe is your new go-to treat. It’s wonderfully moist, bursting with seasonal warmth from nutmeg and eggnog, and topped with a luscious glaze that brings holiday cheer to every bite. Whether you’re gifting this to friends or adding a splash of joy to your own kitchen, this recipe combines the comforting richness of banana bread with the unmistakable spirit of Christmas in the most delicious way.

Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and festive aroma that makes this bread a standout holiday treat.

2 ripe bananas, mashed: Provides natural sweetness and moisture, ensuring every slice is tender.
½ cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and helps bind the ingredients together smoothly.
¾ cup brown sugar: Delivers a deep, caramel-like sweetness that complements the bananas.
1 large egg: Binds the bread and contributes to its soft, yet sturdy texture.
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour: The foundation of the bread, providing structure without heaviness.
1 tsp baking soda: Acts as the leavening agent, making sure your bread rises beautifully.
¼ tsp nutmeg: A pinch of holiday spice that infuses warmth and depth into the batter.

For the Eggnog Glaze

1 cup powdered sugar: Creates the sweet, smooth base for the glaze.
2–3 tbsp eggnog: Adds that unmistakable festive flavor and perfect glaze consistency.

How to Make Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and ready when your batter is mixed. Grease a loaf pan thoroughly to ensure your bread releases easily after baking. This simple prep step sets the stage for a flawless bake.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your mashed bananas, melted butter, and brown sugar. Beat in the egg thoroughly until the mixture looks smooth and inviting. This blend creates the luscious base that will make your bread moist and flavorful.

Step 3: Incorporate Dry Ingredients

Gradually stir in the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and nutmeg. Mixing just until combined keeps the texture light and tender without overworking the batter. The nutmeg adds that seasonal warmth indispensable to this Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe.

Step 4: Bake Your Banana Bread

Pour the batter into your prepared pan and slide it into the oven. Bake for 50–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The smell wafting through your kitchen by this point is a holiday dream come true.

Step 5: Make and Drizzle the Eggnog Glaze

Once your bread has completely cooled, blend powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of eggnog until the glaze is smooth but pourable. Drizzle generously over the top of the loaf to crown your bread with a festive, shiny finish that’s as tasty as it is beautiful.

How to Serve Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a bit of ground nutmeg or cinnamon on top of the glaze for a charming finishing touch. For an extra festive flair, add chopped toasted pecans or a few dried cranberries to the glaze before it sets. These little details create a Christmas banana bread that’s as lovely to look at as it is to eat.

Side Dishes

This banana bread pairs delightfully with a steaming mug of spiced chai or a cup of rich, creamy coffee—perfect for a cozy holiday morning or an afternoon treat. For a heartier snack, spread with cream cheese or a smooth layer of mascarpone to add a tangy contrast to the sweet glaze.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap your loaf in festive parchment paper tied with a rustic twine bow for a beautiful holiday gift. Slice it thick or thin depending on your occasion, and serve on a wooden board with seasonal fruits like pomegranate seeds or sliced apples to create an inviting spread everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled and glazed, keep your Christmas Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This helps keep the bread moist and preserves the integrity of the eggnog glaze without it becoming too sticky or dry.

Freezing

If you want to enjoy this delightful bread later, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. To preserve the glaze best, consider freezing the bread before glazing and add the eggnog glaze fresh after thawing.

Reheating

Gently warm slices in the microwave for about 15 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven. This brings back that fresh-baked feeling and makes the glaze slightly melty and irresistible once again without drying out the bread.

FAQs

Can I use other types of flour in this recipe?

All-purpose flour is ideal for balancing texture and structure, but you can experiment with whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor, adjusting the quantity slightly as it absorbs more moisture.

Is the eggnog glaze necessary?

The eggnog glaze adds a festive, sweet finish that elevates this bread, but you can enjoy the bread plain or with a simple dusting of powdered sugar if you prefer a lighter touch.

Can I make this bread dairy-free?

Yes, by substituting unsalted butter with a plant-based alternative and using dairy-free eggnog, this recipe can easily accommodate dairy allergies or preferences.

How ripe should the bananas be?

For the best flavor and moisture, use bananas that are very ripe with plenty of brown spots. They’re sweeter and mash easily, making your banana bread more flavorful.

Can I add nuts or dried fruit to this recipe?

Absolutely! Chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries add a lovely texture and festive character. Stir them into the batter before baking for an extra special holiday twist.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe is a heartfelt embrace of comfort and holiday spirit, perfect for any festive occasion. I can’t recommend it enough for bringing warmth, joy, and sweetness to your kitchen and gift-giving table. Once you try it, it’ll surely become a beloved tradition in your holiday baking lineup!

Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe