Christmas Eggnog Bread 🎄🍞

Introduction

There’s something truly magical about the holiday season that brings families together, and nothing embodies that spirit quite like a warm loaf of Christmas Eggnog Bread. This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in our home, filling the kitchen with delightful scents of nutmeg and cinnamon, reminiscent of cozy holiday gatherings. My kids love helping mix the ingredients, and we always have a fun time decorating slices with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzling with icing. Whether enjoyed with a cup of coffee or served as a festive treat at gatherings, this bread never fails to spread holiday cheer.

Ingredients

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan to ensure the bread doesn’t stick.

2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, brown sugar, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure everything is well combined.

3. Mix Wet Ingredients:
In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth and uniform.

4. Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients:
Pour the wet mixture into the bowl with the dry ingredients. Stir gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are okay. If you’re using pecans, fold them in at this stage.

5. Bake the Bread:
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and spread it evenly. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

6. Cool and Slice:
Once baked, remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 8
• Calories per Serving: 250 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Total Time: 75 minutes

How to Serve

• Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and milk.
• Enjoy with a dollop of whipped cream on top.
• Pair with a hot cup of coffee or spiced tea.
• Wrap slices in festive packaging for gifts.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Spices: For the best flavor, use freshly grated nutmeg and ground cinnamon.
2. Eggnog Variations: Feel free to use homemade eggnog or store-bought; both work wonderfully.
3. Add Chocolate Chips: For a twist, consider folding in some white or dark chocolate chips along with the pecans.
4. Check for Doneness: Oven temperatures can vary, so check the bread a few minutes early to prevent overbaking.
5. Let It Rest: Allow the bread to rest before slicing for the best texture and ease of cutting.

Recipe Variations

• Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to make this bread gluten-free.
• Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal and use a plant-based eggnog and oil.
• Fruit Additions: Add dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist.
• Spiced Eggnog: Use spiced eggnog for an extra layer of flavor.
• Nut-Free: Omit the pecans or substitute with sunflower seeds for a nut-free version.

Serving Suggestions

• This bread makes a delightful breakfast or brunch option during the holidays.
• Serve it alongside a cheese platter for a savory contrast.
• It can also be enjoyed as a dessert, perhaps with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Thawing: To thaw, simply remove it from the freezer and let it sit at room temperature for a few hours before serving.
• Storage: Store leftover bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a different type of flour?
Yes, whole wheat flour can be used, but it may result in a denser texture.

2. How can I make it more festive?
Add festive sprinkles or a flavored icing on top after baking for a holiday touch.

3. What can I substitute for eggnog?
A mixture of milk and cream with added nutmeg and cinnamon can mimic eggnog flavor.

4. Can I bake this in mini loaf pans?
Yes, adjust the baking time to about 25-30 minutes for mini loaves.

5. How do I know when the bread is done?
Use a toothpick inserted in the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs attached.

6. Can I make this bread ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be baked a day or two in advance and stored at room temperature.

7. Is this bread suitable for breakfast?
Yes! It’s perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch treat.

8. Can I add more spices?
Feel free to experiment with additional spices like allspice or ginger for a different flavor profile.

9. Is it necessary to add nuts?
No, pecans are optional, so feel free to omit them if you prefer.

10. How long does it take to bake at higher elevations?
If you’re at a higher elevation, you may need to increase baking time slightly; check for doneness with a toothpick.

Conclusion

This Christmas Eggnog Bread is not just a treat for the taste buds; it’s a celebration of the holiday season that fills your home with warmth and festive cheer. Its delightful blend of flavors and comforting texture makes it a perfect addition to any holiday table. Whether you’re baking it for family or gifting it to friends, this bread is sure to bring smiles and joy. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to create a memorable holiday tradition with this delicious recipe!

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