Christmas Eggnog Bread

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the holidays, and for my family, one of our favorite traditions is baking together. Each year, we look forward to making a delightful array of treats, but there’s one recipe that has become an absolute staple in our holiday baking: Christmas Eggnog Bread. The aroma of this bread baking fills the house with a cozy warmth that perfectly complements the festive spirit. With its rich, creamy flavor enhanced by the hint of nutmeg and rum extract, this bread has become a beloved part of our holiday celebrations. It’s moist, delicious, and perfect for sharing with loved ones, making it an ideal treat for Christmas gatherings.

Ingredients

• 2 eggs
• 1 cup sugar
• 1/2 cup melted butter
• 1 cup eggnog
• 2 tbsp rum flavor extract
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tbsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg

Instructions

Preheat Oven

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Prepare the Pan

2. Grease the bottom of a 5×9-inch loaf pan to prevent sticking.

Mix Wet Ingredients

3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs until well beaten. Add the sugar, melted butter, eggnog, rum flavor extract, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth and fully combined.

Mix Dry Ingredients

4. In a separate bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg. Make sure to mix these dry ingredients well.

Combine

5. Gradually stir the dry ingredient mixture into the eggnog mixture. Stir just until everything is combined, being careful not to overmix.

Pour & Bake

6. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan. Bake for 40 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it towards the end of the baking time to avoid over-baking.

Cool

7. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 11 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.

Store

8. Once fully cooled, wrap the bread in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 12
• Calories per serving: 200 kcal
• Total Fat: 8 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Cholesterol: 55 mg
• Sodium: 150 mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Dietary Fiber: 1 g
• Sugars: 12 g
• Protein: 3 g

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40-60 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (plus cooling time)

How to Serve

• Slice the bread into thick, hearty slices.
• Serve warm or at room temperature.
• Drizzle with a little extra eggnog or a dusting of powdered sugar for a festive touch.
• Pair with a cup of coffee or a warm holiday beverage.
• Wrap slices in festive packaging for homemade gifts.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Always use fresh eggs and eggnog for the best flavor.
2. Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.
3. Flavor Variations: Add dried cranberries or chopped nuts for additional texture and flavor.
4. Don’t Overmix: Mixing too much can lead to dense bread; mix just until combined.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the bread to rest for a day for the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious.

Recipe Variations

• Nutmeg Substitutes: If you’re not a fan of nutmeg, you can use ground cinnamon or allspice instead.
• Add Chocolate: Incorporate chocolate chips for a sweet twist.
• Glazed Bread: Drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and milk on top for added sweetness.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve slices of eggnog bread with butter or cream cheese for a richer flavor.
• Enjoy it as a dessert after a festive meal.
• Use it as a base for a holiday French toast, topped with maple syrup and fruit.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: You can freeze the bread for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil.
• Thawing: To thaw, place the bread in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a few hours.
• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make this bread without rum flavor extract?

• Yes, you can omit the rum extract or substitute it with an extra teaspoon of vanilla.

1. Can I use whole wheat flour?

• You can substitute half of the all-purpose flour with whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

1. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

• Yes, it freezes well! Just be sure to wrap it properly.

1. What should I do if I don’t have eggnog?

• You can substitute eggnog with a mixture of milk and heavy cream with a pinch of nutmeg.

1. Can I add nuts or dried fruit to the recipe?

• Absolutely! Chopped walnuts, pecans, or dried cranberries make great additions.

1. How can I tell when the bread is done?

• Use a toothpick; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready.

1. Can I use a different size pan?

• Yes, but baking times may vary depending on the size of the pan.

1. How long does the bread last?

• It stays fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week.

1. Is it possible to make mini loaves?

• Yes! Just adjust the baking time to about 20-30 minutes for mini loaves.

1. What’s the best way to serve this bread?
   • It’s delightful on its own, but can also be served with butter or as part of a holiday brunch.

Conclusion

Christmas Eggnog Bread is more than just a delicious treat; it embodies the spirit of the holiday season. Each bite offers a taste of nostalgia, bringing back memories of family gatherings and festive cheer. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it during a quiet moment, this bread is sure to warm your heart and home. Try making it this holiday season, and watch as it becomes a cherished tradition in your own family. Happy baking!

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