Eggnog Bread Pudding – A Warm, Festive Dessert for the Holidays

The holiday season is all about comfort, joy, and sharing delicious food with family and friends. When you need a dessert that is easy to prepare but feels extra special, Eggnog Bread Pudding is the perfect choice. This warm, cozy dish blends creamy eggnog, soft bread, and fragrant spices to create a festive masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Picture this: soft bread cubes soaked in rich, eggnog custard with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg, baked to perfection. The aroma alone will fill your home with the magic of the holidays. Whether you’re serving it after a holiday dinner or bringing it to a potluck, this dessert will steal the spotlight.

Let’s walk through this simple yet impressive recipe together!

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Bread Pudding

Here’s what makes this dish a standout holiday favorite:

• Easy to Prepare: You only need a few simple ingredients and a little prep time.
• Full of Flavor: Creamy eggnog, warm cinnamon, and nutmeg create a cozy, festive taste.
• Perfect for Leftover Bread: Use up stale challah or brioche and turn it into a delicious dessert.
• Customizable: Add whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra flair.
• Great for Sharing: This dish is perfect for gatherings and holiday potlucks.

Ingredients for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Here’s a clear breakdown of everything you need for this simple, festive dessert:

Ingredient	Quantity
Challah or brioche bread	1 loaf (stale)
Eggnog	6 cups
Large eggs	6
Granulated sugar	1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon	1/2 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg	1/2 teaspoon
Salt	1/2 teaspoon
Vanilla extract	2 tablespoons

Tools You’ll Need

Before starting, gather these essential tools to ensure a smooth and stress-free baking process:

• Large mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Bread knife (for cutting the bread)
• 9×13-inch baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula (for serving)
• Aluminum foil

Step-by-Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Follow these easy steps to create a holiday dessert everyone will love.

Step 1: Prep the Bread

1. Use a bread knife to cut the stale challah or brioche bread into 1-inch cubes.
2. Place the bread cubes evenly into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Stale bread works best because it soaks up the custard without getting too mushy.

Step 2: Make the Eggnog Custard

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together:
   • 6 large eggs
   • 6 cups eggnog
   • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
   • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
   • 1/2 teaspoon salt
   • 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
2. Whisk until the sugar dissolves and the custard mixture is smooth.

Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard

1. Pour the eggnog custard evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish.
2. Use your hands or a spatula to gently press the bread cubes down so they absorb the custard.
3. Let the bread soak for about 10–15 minutes to ensure every piece is infused with flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Bread Pudding

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
3. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Step 5: Cool and Serve

1. Allow the bread pudding to cool slightly before serving.
2. Serve warm with your favorite toppings, like whipped cream, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

Serving Suggestions for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Enhance the flavors of your bread pudding with these delicious serving ideas:

• Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of freshly whipped cream for extra creaminess.
• Caramel or Maple Syrup: A drizzle of caramel sauce or warm maple syrup complements the eggnog flavors.
• Powdered Sugar: Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for a festive, snowy effect.
• Fresh Nutmeg: Grate a little fresh nutmeg on top to amplify the warm spice.

Tips for the Perfect Eggnog Bread Pudding

• Use Stale Bread: Day-old challah or brioche works best because it holds its shape when soaked in custard.
• Soak Longer for More Flavor: Let the bread soak in the eggnog custard for 15–30 minutes if time allows.
• Don’t Overbake: Bake until just set to avoid drying out the pudding. The center should be soft and custardy.
• Customize the Spices: Adjust the cinnamon or nutmeg levels to suit your taste. You can even add a pinch of cloves or allspice.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving
Calories	380–400 kcal
Carbohydrates	45g
Protein	8g
Fat	18g
Sugar	20g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredient brands.

FAQs About Eggnog Bread Pudding

1. Can I make eggnog bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the dish up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble it, cover with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge. Bake it when ready to serve.

2. Can I freeze eggnog bread pudding?
Absolutely. Bake it first, let it cool, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 325°F until warm.

3. What bread works best for this recipe?
Challah or brioche is ideal because of their soft, rich texture, but you can also use French bread or even croissants.

4. Can I add toppings to the bread pudding?
Yes! Add toppings like whipped cream, caramel sauce, or a dusting of cinnamon and powdered sugar for extra flavor.

5. How do I know when the bread pudding is done?
The pudding is ready when the custard is set but still soft, and the top is golden brown. It should not be overly jiggly in the center.

6. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, substitute eggnog with a dairy-free version and use coconut or almond milk-based alternatives.

Bring Comfort and Joy with Eggnog Bread Pudding

Eggnog bread pudding is the ultimate holiday dessert—warm, comforting, and bursting with festive flavors. It’s easy to make, customizable to your taste, and guaranteed to be a hit at any gathering. Whether you serve it for Christmas brunch, after dinner, or as a late-night treat, it’s a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite.

So gather your ingredients, preheat the oven, and get ready to create a dessert that brings joy to your holiday table. Happy baking, and happy holidays!

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