The aroma of spices wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to cherished holiday memories. There’s something undeniably heartwarming about making Eggnog Bread Pudding, a classic holiday dessert that transforms simple ingredients into something truly magical. Not only is this dish a delightful way to repurpose stale bread, but it also brings loved ones together, making it a perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving or Christmas gatherings. With its creamy custard and hints of nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon, this dessert is both comforting and indulgent, appealing to the cozy chef in all of us. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can even be made ahead of time, giving you more moments to focus on celebrating. Are you ready to dive into the festive flavor and create a dessert that will warm hearts and homes?
Why is Eggnog Bread Pudding a Holiday Must?
Comforting and Cozy: The delightful aroma of spices fills your kitchen as you bake, instantly creating a warm and inviting atmosphere perfect for holiday gatherings.
Easy to Make: With straightforward steps, even novice cooks can impress family and friends, making this recipe a stress-free addition to your festive lineup.
Versatile Delight: From breakfast to dessert, this eggnog bread pudding suits any occasion. Consider pairing it with Moist Banana Bread for a breakfast buffet or serving it alongside a scoop of ice cream for a decadent dessert!
Stale Bread Transformative: Don’t toss out that stale bread! This recipe beautifully utilizes it, minimizing waste while maximizing flavor.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Assemble the night before, refrigerate, and simply pop in the oven when you’re ready, saving precious time during busy holiday festivities.
Whether you’re aiming to impress or simply want to indulge, Eggnog Bread Pudding is sure to be a showstopper this season!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
• Stale challah or brioche bread – Provides structure and texture; day-old bread works best with at least 13-14 cups diced for optimal results.
• Eggnog – The primary liquid that creates the custard base; make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
• Large eggs – Binds the mixture together; using room temperature eggs helps with optimal blending.
• White granulated sugar – Adds necessary sweetness; feel free to adjust based on your preference or substitute with brown sugar for depth.
For the Flavor
• Vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and aroma; pure vanilla extract offers the best flavor experience.
• Ground cinnamon – Adds warmth to the dish; you can substitute with pumpkin pie spice if you want a twist.
• Ground nutmeg – Vital for that classic eggnog flavor; freshly grated nutmeg will elevate the taste significantly.
• Salt – Balances the sweetness for a well-rounded flavor profile.
Embark on your holiday journey with these delightful ingredients to create unforgettable Eggnog Bread Pudding!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C) and greasing a 13×9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. This ensures that your eggnog bread pudding won’t stick to the pan, making it easy to serve later. As the oven heats up, gather your ingredients to prepare for mixing the custard.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together ½ cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 6 large eggs until well combined. Gradually pour in 6 cups of room-temperature eggnog, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This delicious custard will infuse your eggnog bread pudding with flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Next, take your stale challah or brioche bread, cutting it into bite-sized cubes, and place them evenly in the greased baking dish. Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to cover them generously. Gently toss the bread with the custard to ensure every piece is soaked, creating a luscious texture in your eggnog bread pudding.
Step 4: Let It Rest
Once assembled, press the bread mixture down gently to ensure it absorbs the custard thoroughly. Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting period allows the stale bread to soak up the custard, resulting in a soft and custardy filling when baked.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
After the resting time, remove the foil and place the baking dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the pudding is puffed, golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on it toward the end of the baking time for the perfect golden crust while ensuring the inside remains deliciously soft.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the eggnog bread pudding from the oven and let it cool for 20-30 minutes. This resting time allows the pudding to set further and makes it easier to slice. Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and consider drizzling with eggnog sauce or serving alongside a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance this delightful holiday treat.
Make Ahead Options
These delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding treats are perfect for busy home cooks seeking to save time during the festive season! You can assemble the entire pudding up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the recipe until the resting step, cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil, and refrigerate it overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard flavors. This not only enhances the taste but also makes your life easier come serving time. When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake the pudding from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes if needed, until puffed and golden brown. Rest assured, it will be just as delicious and comforting as if made fresh that day!
Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding
• Stale Bread is Best: Use day-old challah or brioche to absorb the custard properly. Fresh bread may turn soggy instead of creating that lovely, custardy texture.
• Room Temperature Ingredients: Allow your eggs and eggnog to come to room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smooth custard that blends beautifully.
• Customize Flavors: Don’t hesitate to add in your favorites! Consider dried fruits, nuts, or even chocolate chips to make your eggnog bread pudding uniquely yours.
• Bake to Perfection: Keep an eye on your pudding as it bakes. If it’s golden brown but not set in the center, use a thermometer—160°F indicates it’s ready.
• Make Ahead: For convenience during busy holiday times, prepare your eggnog bread pudding the night before, refrigerate, and pop it in the oven when ready to serve.
What to Serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding
The holidays are all about the flavors and connections that bring warmth to your table, and pairing this delightful dessert can elevate your festive experience.
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Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light and airy contrast to the rich pudding, enhancing each bite delightfully.
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Vanilla Ice Cream: Serve a scoop alongside to complement the warm spices, creating a melt-in-your-mouth sensation that’s simply irresistible. The cold creaminess perfectly balances the warmth of the pudding.
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Eggnog Sauce: Drizzle this decadent sauce over the pudding for an extra dose of cheer. It’s the ultimate nod to holiday tradition, deepening the eggnog flavor with each spoonful.
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Cranberry Sauce: The tartness of homemade cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, providing a refreshing zing that surprises the palate. Its vibrant color also adds a festive touch to your plate.
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Toasted Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts over the top for a satisfying crunch, enhancing both flavor and texture. The nuttiness beautifully complements the bread pudding’s creaminess.
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Mulled Wine: For a cozy drink pairing, serve warm spiced mulled wine to warm the soul and create a festive atmosphere. The aromatic spices will harmonize beautifully with the flavors of the pudding.
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Fruit Compote: A warm apple or pear compote drizzled on top adds a burst of fruitiness that brightens the dish, contrasting its rich sweetness while also adding a touch of seasonal charm.
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Holiday Coffee: Enjoy a steaming cup of spiced or flavored coffee on the side, which will provide a comforting finish to your dessert. The rich flavors of coffee enhance the spices in the pudding, creating a perfect ending to an indulgent meal.
These delightful pairings not only enhance the experience of the eggnog bread pudding but also create a heartwarming spread that is sure to impress your guests!
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the eggnog bread pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: To enjoy your pudding, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes or microwave individual slices for about 1 minute until warmed through.
Serving: For best results, serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of eggnog sauce, or your favorite scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat.
Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to mix things up and make this eggnog bread pudding your own with these delightful ideas!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute eggnog with a non-dairy milk like almond or coconut milk. Enhance flavor by adding sweeteners and spices!
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Nutty Delight: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft pudding. Your family will love this added layer of flavor.
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Fruitful Twist: Add dried fruits like cranberries, raisins, or even fresh apples for a touch of fruity sweetness. These additions brighten up the dish for a festive vibe, perfect for the holidays.
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Chocolate Chip Indulgence: Toss in some chocolate chips for a tempting chocolatey surprise hidden in your pudding. Who can resist warm chocolate melting into that rich custard?
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Pumpkin Flavor: Replace some of the eggnog with pumpkin puree for a seasonal twist. Spice things up with more cinnamon and nutmeg for a autumnal delight!
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Additional Spices: Want to elevate the warmth? Incorporate allspice or cardamom to create a unique flavor profile. Just a pinch can transform this dish into a new favorite.
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Crusty Topping: Make a mixed crumble topping with oats and brown sugar, sprinkled over the pudding before baking. This crust adds some delightful crunch to your creamy base.
Need more inspiration? Consider creating a stunning spread by also serving this alongside some Moist Banana Bread or a slice of Pumpkin Streusel Bread for a delightful holiday buffet!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for eggnog bread pudding?
Absolutely! Day-old challah or brioche is ideal for making eggnog bread pudding, providing a sturdy structure and the perfect texture. Aim for at least 13-14 cups of diced bread to achieve the best results. If you’re using fresh bread, consider cutting it into cubes and toasting it in a 350°F oven for about 10-14 minutes to dry it out before using.
How should I store leftovers of eggnog bread pudding?
Very! To store any leftover eggnog bread pudding, place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to 3-4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat slices in a 350°F oven for about 15-20 minutes or microwave individual portions for around 1 minute, until warmed through.
Can I freeze eggnog bread pudding, and if so, how?
Absolutely! You can freeze eggnog bread pudding for up to 2 months. To do this, allow it to cool completely first. Wrap the pudding tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in the oven or microwave as mentioned before for delightful results.
What if my eggnog bread pudding turns out too dry?
No worries! If your eggnog bread pudding ends up dry, it’s often due to under-soaking the bread before baking. Ensure you let it rest in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes (or even longer) to absorb more liquid. If it’s already baked and you find it a bit dry, a drizzle of warm eggnog or cream over the top when serving can help restore moisture and enhance flavor.
Is eggnog bread pudding suitable for those with allergies?
Very! While eggnog bread pudding is vegetarian-friendly, it’s important to note that it contains eggs and dairy. To make it suitable for allergies, you can use dairy-free eggnog and substitute eggs with a plant-based egg replacer or silken tofu to achieve a similar texture. Always check your specific replacements to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Can I make eggnog bread pudding ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the eggnog bread pudding a day in advance. Just cover the prepared dish tightly and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to serve, simply pop it in the preheated oven and bake according to the directions for a stress-free holiday treat!
Eggnog Bread Pudding: Your Holiday Comfort Dessert Awaits
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 13x9-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 0.5 cup of sugar, 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract, 0.5 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 0.5 teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and 6 large eggs until well combined.
- Gradually pour in 6 cups of room-temperature eggnog, continuing to whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps.
- Cut stale challah or brioche bread into bite-sized cubes and place them evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, making sure to cover them generously.
- Gently toss the bread with the custard to ensure every piece is soaked.
- Press the bread mixture down gently, cover with aluminum foil, and let it sit for about 30 minutes at room temperature.
- Remove the foil and place the baking dish in the preheated oven; bake for 45 to 55 minutes or until puffed and golden brown.
- Let it cool for 20-30 minutes before serving.
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