Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe

If you love the festive flavors of the holidays, you are going to adore this Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe. Imagine moist, tender slices bursting with nutmeg and cinnamon, perfectly complemented by a sweet, eggnog-infused glaze that brings that classic Christmas cheer to every bite. It’s a straightforward, comforting treat that feels like a warm hug on chilly winter mornings or makes a spectacular gift to share with friends and family during the holiday season. This bread is more than just a dessert—it’s a festive tradition waiting to happen in your kitchen.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and easy to find, but each one plays a key role in creating the magic of this bread. From the flour that forms a sturdy, tender crumb to the warm spices that evoke holiday memories, every component adds depth, flavor, and texture.

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect structure and body for a moist and tender crumb.
• 1 teaspoon baking powder: Helps the bread rise, ensuring a light and fluffy texture.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Brings an earthy, warm spice that’s the heart of holiday flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon: Adds a subtle sweetness and warmth that complements nutmeg beautifully.
• 1 large egg: Binds the ingredients together and adds richness.
• ½ cup granulated sugar: Sweetens without overpowering the spices.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Adds moisture and a hint of caramel depth.
• ½ cup vegetable oil (or melted butter): Keeps the bread moist and tender.
• 1 cup eggnog (store-bought or homemade): Infuses the bread with a festive, creamy flavor.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall aroma and smoothness.
• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional): Adds delightful crunch and nuttiness.
• Glaze ingredients (optional): ½ cup powdered sugar, 2–3 tablespoons eggnog, and a pinch of nutmeg for a lovely finishing touch.

How to Make Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper. This simple step ensures the bread doesn’t stick and makes it easier to remove once baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, ground nutmeg, and cinnamon. This blend of warm spices is what makes this bread uniquely festive, and mixing these dry ingredients first ensures they’re evenly distributed.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk the egg, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vegetable oil (or melted butter), eggnog, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This creates a luscious base that will keep the bread tender and flavorful.

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Gradually stir the dry ingredients into the wet mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix here; you want a tender crumb, so a few small lumps are perfectly fine. If you’re using chopped pecans or walnuts, gently fold them in during this step for added texture.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top gently. Pop it into the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The warm spices will fill your kitchen with that unmistakable cozy holiday scent as it bakes.

Step 6: Cool and Glaze

Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 to 15 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. For the festive glaze, mix powdered sugar with 2 to 3 tablespoons of eggnog until smooth, then drizzle it over the cooled loaf and dust lightly with nutmeg. This glaze adds a sweet, creamy finish that amplifies the eggnog flavor.

How to Serve Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

Adding extra touches can elevate your Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe to show-stopping status. Sprinkle a few extra chopped nuts on top of the glaze or dust more nutmeg or cinnamon right before serving. A dollop of whipped cream or a light smear of cream cheese adds a delicious richness that’s sure to impress guests.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs wonderfully with a cup of hot coffee, spiced chai tea, or a glass of mulled wine. Consider serving it alongside fresh fruit, like crisp apples or juicy cranberries, to balance the sweetness and add vibrant color to your holiday table.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap a sliced loaf in festive cellophane tied with a rustic ribbon for gift-giving, or serve slices stacked on a wooden board with seasonal greenery and mini pine cones for a charming centerpiece. You could even offer individual slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel for a decadent holiday dessert.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe stays wonderfully moist when stored at room temperature. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container, and it will keep fresh for up to three days—perfect for enjoying leftovers or sharing with visitors.

Freezing

If you want to prep in advance or save extra slices, freezing is a fantastic option. Slice the bread, then freeze individual pieces wrapped in plastic wrap and placed inside a zip-top bag. It will last for up to two months, so you can savor the festive flavor anytime throughout the season.

Reheating

To enjoy your Christmas Eggnog Bread fresh and warm, simply reheat slices in a toaster oven or conventional oven at a low temperature until warmed through. Avoid microwaving to keep the crust from turning soggy; instead, a gentle toast will revive the bread’s texture perfectly.

FAQs

Can I use homemade eggnog for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade eggnog works beautifully and adds a special, personal touch to your Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe. Just be sure it’s well chilled before adding to the batter.

What nuts work best in this bread?

Pecans and walnuts are traditional choices that add great flavor and texture. You can also experiment with hazelnuts or even leave them out completely if you prefer a nut-free version.

Is it okay to substitute butter for oil?

Yes, melted butter will give your bread a richer flavor and slightly denser texture. Both options yield excellent results, so feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.

Can I make this bread gluten-free?

To make a gluten-free version, substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-for-1 gluten-free baking flour blend. Just be mindful that texture may vary slightly, but the warm spices and eggnog flavor will still shine through beautifully.

How long should I wait before glazing the bread?

Patience is key: let the bread cool completely on a wire rack before applying the glaze. Otherwise, the glaze can melt and become too runny, preventing that lovely, festive finish.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Eggnog Bread with Warm Spices and Festive Glaze Recipe is a holiday treasure that brings joy, comfort, and celebration to your kitchen. Its inviting aroma and rich flavors make it an irresistible treat to enjoy with loved ones. Trust me, once you bake this, it will become your go-to festive bread year after year. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and fill your home with the magic of the season!

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