Name: Cozy Up with Eggnog Bread Pudding This Holiday Season
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 8 cups stale bread (cubed brioche or challah); 4 cups eggnog (room temperature); 4 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup granulated sugar (can substitute with brown sugar); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (high-quality for best results); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adjust to taste); 0.5 teaspoon ground nutmeg (freshly grated is best); 0.25 teaspoon salt; 0.5 cup powdered sugar (for dusting); 1 cup whipped cream (for serving); 1 cup eggnog sauce (for drizzling)

The scent of nutmeg and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen can instantly transform any day into a cozy celebration. There’s something truly magical about turning stale bread into a warm, creamy indulgence—especially when that indulgence is a delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding. This recipe is not just perfect for holiday gatherings; it effortlessly blends into your breakfast repertoire, ensuring no crumb goes to waste. With its economical use of stale bread and the rich flavors of eggnog, it’s both a comforting treat and a clever way to use up leftovers. Are you ready to dive into something festive and satisfying? Let’s whip up this delicious dessert that will surely impress your friends and family!

Why is Eggnog Bread Pudding a Must-Try?

Comforting Truly: This recipe melds the warm flavors of nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon into a creamy custard, creating a cozy treat that warms the soul.

Waste Not, Want Not: Utilizes stale bread in an exciting way, transforming leftovers into a delightful dessert or breakfast option, making it both economical and resourceful.

Quick Prep: With just a few simple steps—mix, assemble, and bake—you’ll have a show-stopping dessert in about an hour!

Holiday Bliss: Ideal for family gatherings or holiday parties, this eggnog bread pudding is sure to impress your guests with its inviting aroma and rich taste.

Versatile Delight: Enjoy it warm with a drizzle of cream, or cool with a scoop of ice cream; it’s a treat for any occasion!

Are you looking for more scrumptious ideas to utilize your leftover bread? Check out my recipes for Moist Banana Bread and Pumpkin Streusel Bread for inspiration!

Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding

Stale Bread – Use day-old brioche or challah for the best texture and flavor absorption.
Eggnog – This key ingredient acts as the custard base, providing a rich, spiced flavor; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
Eggs – Essential for binding the pudding and achieving a creamy texture; ideally, they should be at room temperature.
Granulated Sugar – Adds the necessary sweetness to the custard; you can substitute with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like flavor.
Vanilla Extract – A splash of pure vanilla enhances the overall taste; always reach for high-quality extract for the best results.
Ground Cinnamon – Infuses the pudding with warm, holiday spices; feel free to adjust the quantity to suit your palate.
Ground Nutmeg – Complements the eggnog beautifully; freshly grated nutmeg provides an extra layer of flavor.
Salt – Just a pinch is needed to balance the sweetness and elevate all the flavors.

Optional Toppings

Powdered Sugar – A light dusting on top gives a festive touch and a hint of sweetness.
Whipped Cream – Serve it with a dollop on top for added creaminess and luxury, perfectly balancing the rich custard.
Eggnog Sauce – Drizzle this over the finished pudding for an extra indulgent experience, enhancing the eggnog flavor in every bite.

Dive into the warm, indulgent world of Eggnog Bread Pudding and delight your loved ones with its rich flavors this holiday season!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven warms up, grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This pan will cradle your delicious Eggnog Bread Pudding, ensuring it bakes evenly and comes out easily after it’s done.

Step 2: Create the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each one is fully incorporated. Gradually pour in the room-temperature eggnog, whisking continuously until your mixture is smooth and creamy; this vibrant custard will give your pudding its rich flavor and texture.

Step 3: Combine with Bread
Take your stale bread—preferably cubed brioche or challah—and add it to the custard mixture. Gently toss the bread cubes until they are evenly coated and saturated with the custard. Let the bread soak up that delightful mixture for a moment, ensuring the flavors meld together perfectly for a wonderful Eggnog Bread Pudding.

Step 4: Allow to Rest
Press down the bread mixture gently with a spatula to ensure every piece is immersed in the custard. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This resting time allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, making every bite heavenly and rich.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding
After resting, pour the fully combined bread and custard mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover the dish with foil to retain moisture while baking. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 to 55 minutes. Remove the foil in the last 15 minutes for a beautiful golden top; the pudding should puff up and feel set when done.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove your Eggnog Bread Pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for 20 to 30 minutes. This cooling period helps it set further, making it easier to slice. Before serving, dust the top with powdered sugar for a festive touch, and consider pairing it with whipped cream or a drizzle of eggnog sauce for added indulgence.

What to Serve with Nutmeg-Spiced Eggnog Bread Pudding?

There’s nothing quite like creating the perfect festive meal around a warm and indulgent dessert that brings everyone together.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of velvety vanilla ice cream will melt over the warm pudding, adding a delightful contrast in temperature and texture.
Whipped Cream Delight: Top your pudding with fluffy whipped cream for a light, airy sweetness that complements the rich custard perfectly.
Fruit Compote: A tangy berry or spiced apple compote can brighten the flavors, adding a refreshing and tart note to balance the sweetness.
Rich Eggnog Sauce: Drizzle with homemade eggnog sauce for an irresistible layer of indulgence that echoes the dessert’s core ingredient.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: A touch of maple syrup provides a warm, earthy sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the nutmeg and cinnamon spices.
Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle with chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture contrast that adds depth and richness to each bite.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Sauté apples with a hint of cinnamon for a warm, fruity addition that brings a delightful seasonal touch to your dessert.
Gingerbread Cookies: Pair with crisp gingerbread cookies for a nostalgic and festive side that echoes the holiday warmth of your pudding.
Hot Chocolate: Warm up a cozy mug of hot cocoa, its rich chocolate flavor offers a delightful pairing that feels like a comforting hug.
Mulled Wine: Sip on a glass of mulled wine to bring a spiced, aromatic drink that enhances the holiday spirit while enjoying your bread pudding.

Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Bread Selection: Use stale bread: Day-old brioche or challah absorbs custard better and prevents a mushy texture. Fresh bread can be toasted to mimic stale bread.
Egg Temperature: Room temperature eggs: This ensures a smoother mixture when whisking, leading to a creamier custard in your eggnog bread pudding.
Soaking Time: Don’t rush the soak: Allow the bread to rest in the custard for at least 30 minutes to achieve the best flavor and texture.
Spice Adjustment: Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to modify the amount of nutmeg and cinnamon according to your preferences, enhancing your pudding’s flavor.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of liquor: Including a bit of rum or bourbon can deepen the flavor profile of your eggnog bread pudding for a festive kick.

Make Ahead Options

These delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks who want to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can assemble the entire pudding up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, prepare the custard and combine it with the stale bread, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This allows the bread to absorb all those wonderful flavors without losing its texture. When you’re ready to serve, simply preheat your oven and bake the pudding directly from the refrigerator for 45 to 55 minutes until golden and puffed. This make-ahead strategy ensures you’ll have a warm, creamy dessert ready to impress your family and guests, all with minimal fuss!

Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to explore new dimensions of flavor and texture by customizing this delightful treat!

Almond Extract: Substitute almond extract for vanilla to infuse a nutty twist that complements the eggnog perfectly.
Dried Fruit: Add raisins or cranberries to the bread mixture for a fruity burst that contrasts beautifully with the creamy custard.
Nutty Crunch: Toss in chopped pecans or walnuts for delightful texture and a nutty flavor explosion.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix in semi-sweet chocolate chips for a sweet, decadent addition that contrasts with the spiced flavors.
Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut milk eggnog as a base for a dairy-free version—delightfully creamy with a hint of tropical flavor.
Spiced Rum: Incorporate a splash of spiced rum or bourbon into the custard for a festive kick that enhances the holiday spirit.
Cinnamon Roll Style: Layer the bread cubes with a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for a sweet, sticky surprise in every bite.
Savory Touch: For a unique twist, consider adding cooked and crumbled sausage or bacon to the mixture for a savory flavor that’s still delightful with the sweetness.

Don’t forget to check out my recipes for Moist Banana Bread and Pumpkin Streusel Bread for more creative ways to use up leftover bread!

How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding

Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days. This will maintain its delicious flavors and creamy texture without drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled pudding tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, keeping it in the freezer for up to 2 months. Allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating: For best results, reheat slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or warm individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes until heated through. Enjoy your eggnog bread pudding just as lovely as the day you made it!

Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of bread is best for Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Using stale bread, specifically day-old brioche or challah, works best for creating a rich and creamy texture. This type of bread absorbs the custard beautifully and prevents the pudding from becoming mushy. If you only have fresh bread, toasting it lightly before use can help replicate the necessary dryness.

How should I store leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. This will keep it moist and flavorful. Make sure to allow it to cool completely before storing to prevent excess moisture from building up inside the container.

Can I freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! For freezing, wrap the cooled Eggnog Bread Pudding tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. For the best results, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

What should I do if my pudding is too dry?
If your Eggnog Bread Pudding turns out dry, don’t worry! You can serve it with a drizzle of warm eggnog sauce or a scoop of ice cream to add moisture back into each bite. If you find it tends to dry out when reheating, sprinkle a little milk or custard over the top before warming it up.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, this Eggnog Bread Pudding recipe is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat or gelatin. However, if you have dietary restrictions or allergies, make sure to check the labels on your eggnog and other ingredients to ensure they meet your specific needs.

Can I make this pudding ahead of time?
Certainly! You can assemble your Eggnog Bread Pudding the night before and refrigerate it before baking. Just cover it tightly with plastic wrap. When you’re ready to serve, simply bake it according to the instructions—it saves so much time on busy holiday mornings!