Eggnog Bread Pudding

Introduction

Eggnog Bread Pudding is the quintessential holiday dessert, delivering all the cozy flavors of the season in one delightful dish. It’s the perfect way to make use of that leftover eggnog while creating a dessert that feels luxurious and festive. Imagine soft cubes of bread soaked in a creamy eggnog custard, baked to golden perfection, and topped with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The result? A dish that smells as incredible as it tastes, evoking all the warmth and cheer of the holidays.

This dessert holds a special place in my holiday traditions. I first made it for a Christmas brunch, and it was an instant hit. The simplicity of the recipe is part of its charm—you just whisk together eggnog, eggs, sugar, and spices, pour it over cubes of bread, and bake. The magic happens in the oven, where the bread transforms into a custardy, golden delight that’s both soft and slightly crisp around the edges.

What I love most is its versatility. You can serve it warm with a drizzle of sweet glaze or caramel sauce for a decadent treat, or top it with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon for a lighter touch. Whether enjoyed with coffee in the morning or as the grand finale to a festive dinner, Eggnog Bread Pudding never fails to bring holiday joy to the table. It’s easy to prepare, endlessly comforting, and sure to become a seasonal favorite!

Perfect for:

• Holiday dinners
• Christmas brunches
• Winter potlucks
• Using leftover eggnog
• Cozy nights by the fire

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Bread Pudding

Here’s why Eggnog Bread Pudding will become your favorite holiday dessert:

• Festive Flavors: The combination of eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a warm, holiday-inspired flavor profile.
• Perfect Use for Leftover Eggnog: Transform leftover eggnog into a luxurious dessert instead of letting it go to waste.
• Comforting and Cozy: The soft, custardy texture makes it a comforting dessert for cold winter evenings.
• Simple Ingredients: Made with pantry staples and holiday favorites, it’s an easy dessert to whip up.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with glaze, ice cream, or even a dollop of whipped cream.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Baking Time: 1 hour
• Cooling Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 8 servings
• Calories per serving: Approximately 350-400 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 7g, Carbs: 45g, Fat: 15g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Eggnog Bread Pudding:

• 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (such as brioche or challah)
• 3 cups eggnog
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• Optional toppings: powdered sugar, caramel sauce, or whipped cream

Ingredient Highlights

• Eggnog: The star of the recipe, eggnog adds a rich, creamy base infused with holiday spices.
• Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better, creating a soft, pudding-like texture.
• Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg enhance the festive flavor and pair beautifully with the eggnog.
• Vanilla Extract: Adds depth to the custard, complementing the eggnog and spices.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Bread and Custard:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cube the Bread: Cut the day-old bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in the prepared baking dish.
3. Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.

Assemble the Bread Pudding:

4. Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are evenly soaked. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the custard.
5. Let It Rest: Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to ensure the bread is fully saturated.

Bake the Bread Pudding:

6. Add Melted Butter: Drizzle the melted butter over the top for a golden finish.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Cool and Serve:

8. Cool Slightly: Allow the bread pudding to cool for about 15 minutes before serving.
9. Top and Enjoy: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with caramel sauce, or serve with whipped cream for extra indulgence.

How to Serve Eggnog Bread Pudding

Eggnog Bread Pudding is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways:

• With Warm Caramel Sauce: Drizzle caramel sauce over the warm bread pudding for an extra layer of sweetness.
• A Scoop of Vanilla Ice Cream: Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream to contrast the warm dessert with a cool treat.
• Dust of Powdered Sugar: Keep it simple with a light dusting of powdered sugar for a delicate touch.
• Fresh Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream for a creamy complement to the pudding’s richness.
• With a Glass of Eggnog: Serve alongside a glass of eggnog for a fully festive experience.

Additional Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Here are some tips for making the best Eggnog Bread Pudding:

• Use Stale Bread: Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the bread pudding while baking to avoid drying it out. It should be set but still soft and custardy in the center.
• Add Mix-Ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts to the bread pudding.
• Warm It Up: If reheating leftovers, warm them in the oven or microwave for the best texture and flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like maple syrup, pecan praline sauce, or a spiced glaze to customize your dessert.

Recipe Variations for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Here are 10 creative variations of Eggnog Bread Pudding:

• Chocolate Chip Eggnog Bread Pudding: Add a handful of chocolate chips for a sweet, gooey twist.
• Rum-Infused Bread Pudding: Mix a splash of rum or rum extract into the custard for a boozy holiday treat.
• Apple Cinnamon Bread Pudding: Fold in diced apples and increase the cinnamon for a fruity variation.
• Pecan Praline Topping: Sprinkle chopped pecans and brown sugar on top before baking for a caramelized crunch.
• Cranberry-Orange Bread Pudding: Add dried cranberries and a touch of orange zest for a tangy twist.
• Pumpkin Eggnog Bread Pudding: Mix in pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice for an autumnal take.
• Coconut Eggnog Bread Pudding: Replace some eggnog with coconut milk and add shredded coconut for a tropical flair.
• Savory Eggnog Bread Pudding: Skip the sugar and add shredded cheese, herbs, and bacon for a savory option.
• Almond Joy Bread Pudding: Add almonds, shredded coconut, and chocolate chips for a dessert inspired by the candy bar.
• Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free bread to make the dessert suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: Allow the bread pudding to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes or in the microwave.

Special Equipment for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Here are some helpful tools for making Eggnog Bread Pudding:

• Large Mixing Bowl: For whisking the custard mixture.
• Whisk: Ensures the custard is smooth and well-blended.
• 9×13-inch Baking Dish: The perfect size for layering and baking the bread pudding.
• Pastry Brush: Use it to evenly spread melted butter on top.
• Aluminum Foil: Useful for covering the dish during the last 10 minutes of baking if the top browns too quickly.

FAQ Section for Eggnog Bread Pudding

1. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
   Yes, use dairy-free eggnog and a plant-based butter substitute for a dairy-free version.
2. What type of bread works best?
   Brioche, challah, or French bread are ideal for their soft texture and ability to absorb custard.
3. Can I prepare this ahead of time?
   Yes, you can assemble the bread pudding up to 12 hours in advance and refrigerate it before baking.
4. How do I prevent it from drying out?
   Avoid overbaking and cover it loosely with foil if the top starts to brown too quickly.
5. Can I use store-bought eggnog?
   Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly, but homemade eggnog can add a personal touch.

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Conclusion

Eggnog Bread Pudding captures the essence of holiday comfort, blending the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog with the nostalgic warmth of a classic dessert. The soft, custard-soaked bread is baked to perfection, creating a dish that’s both festive and indulgent. Whether served with a drizzle of caramel sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of nutmeg, it’s a treat that brings the magic of the season to your table.

This easy recipe is perfect for transforming leftover bread into a show-stopping dessert. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a crowd-pleasing dish that’s ideal for cozy family dinners or festive celebrations. It’s a versatile dessert that can be enjoyed warm from the oven or chilled for a more decadent experience.

I’d love to see your Eggnog Bread Pudding creations! Don’t forget to share your photos and tag me on Instagram—I’m excited to see how you bring this holiday favorite to life. Spread the holiday cheer and enjoy every creamy, comforting bite!