As the first hints of winter chill settle in, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a warm, comforting dessert. That’s where this Eggnog Bread Pudding comes in, transforming the festive spirit of leftover eggnog into a rich and creamy masterpiece. Each bite is a delightful blend of seasonal spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a moment of indulgence that feels like a warm embrace.
Imagine the aroma of sweet custard wafting through your kitchen as this dessert bakes, beckoning friends and family to gather around the table. It’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings or a cozy evening in, served warm with a luscious custard sauce and a dollop of whipped cream. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself, this Eggnog Bread Pudding is a delightful solution to shake off that fast-food fatigue and embrace homemade warmth during the holidays. Get ready to savor every last spoonful!
Why is Eggnog Bread Pudding the ultimate comfort food?
Rich, Decadent Flavor: This dessert combines the creamy goodness of eggnog with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a truly indulgent experience.
Simple to Make: With just a few ingredients, you can whip up this comforting treat, making it perfect for both novice and experienced bakers.
Perfect for Celebrations: Whether it’s a holiday gathering or a special family dinner, this Eggnog Bread Pudding is sure to impress your guests and become the highlight of the meal.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it warm with custard sauce, or elevate it with a scoop of ice cream for an extra-special touch.
Time-Saving Delight: Utilize leftover holiday eggnog, transforming it into a luxurious dessert that saves you both time and ingredients.
Find more festive recipes to inspire your holiday cooking, including delightful side dishes that will pair wonderfully with this dessert!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding Base
- Eggnog – The star ingredient that adds rich flavor and moisture; feel free to swap it with homemade or non-dairy alternatives to suit your taste.
- Milk – Enhances the creaminess of the pudding; you can easily substitute it with oat milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Sugar – Sweetens the dish; consider using brown sugar for added depth or monk fruit for a lower sugar option.
- Eggs (4) – Essential for structure and richness; vegan options include flax eggs or applesauce, though they may alter the final texture.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; opt for pure vanilla for the best result, with imitation vanilla as a backup.
- Cinnamon (1 tsp) – Provides a warm aromatic touch; adjust to your preference or experiment with pumpkin pie spice for a festive spin.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Adds a subtle aromatic essence; freshly grated nutmeg is recommended for a more vibrant flavor.
- Salt (1/4 tsp) – Balances the sweetness and brings out other flavors.
- Cubed Bread (10 cups) – The foundation of our pudding; brioche, challah, or French bread yields the best texture, while stale bread absorbs the eggnog mixture far better.
For the Eggnog Sauce
- Eggnog (1 1/2 cups) – The base of the sauce; you can use more milk or cream in its place if needed.
- Sugar (1/4 cup) – Sweetens the sauce to your liking; feel free to adjust the amount based on your preference.
- Cornstarch (1 tsp) – Acts as a thickening agent; if gluten-free, arrowroot makes a fantastic substitute.
- Egg (1) – Contributes to the sauce’s richness; for a thinner consistency, you can omit this ingredient.
- Butter (2 tbsp) – Adds a luxurious richness; substitute with vegan butter for a dairy-free option.
- Spiced Rum (optional, 2 tbsp) – Imparts a lovely dimension of flavor; vanilla extract works well if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.
Embrace your culinary adventure with this Eggnog Bread Pudding, where comfort and festivity intertwine in every delightful bite!
How to Make Eggnog Bread Pudding
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Preheat the oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F. This ensures that your Eggnog Bread Pudding will bake evenly and come out perfectly cooked.
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Whisk together ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
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Fold in the bread: Gently fold in the cubed bread into the eggnog mixture, ensuring that every piece is well coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes so the bread absorbs the mixture.
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Transfer and bake: Pour the bread mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the center is slightly wiggly and the top is golden brown. If it browns too quickly, cover it with foil.
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Prepare the sauce: While the pudding is baking, beat an egg in a separate bowl. In a saucepan, combine the eggnog, sugar, and cornstarch, then heat over medium until it comes to a gentle boil.
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Thicken the sauce: Slowly add about 1/3 of the hot mixture to the beaten egg while whisking rapidly to temper it. Return this mixture to the saucepan, whisking constantly, and heat until it thickens and reaches a boiling point again.
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Finalize the sauce: Remove the saucepan from the heat, stir in the butter and spiced rum (if using), allowing the sauce to meld together beautifully. Serve it warm over your Eggnog Bread Pudding.
Optional: Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra festive touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding
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Choose Quality Bread: Use brioche or challah for a rich and soft texture. Stale bread is preferable as it absorbs the eggnog mixture better without becoming soggy.
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Monitor Baking Time: Avoid overbaking to maintain a custardy center. Check for doneness; the pudding should be slightly jiggly in the center when you take it out of the oven.
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Cut Even Cubes: For even cooking, ensure the bread is cubed uniformly. This helps the Eggnog Bread Pudding absorb the mixture consistently, enhancing the flavor throughout.
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Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for 10 minutes before baking; this helps the bread soak up all the delicious eggnog mixture for optimal flavor.
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Make Sauce Fresh: For the best flavor, prepare the eggnog sauce just before serving. A freshly made sauce will elevate your Eggnog Bread Pudding and impress your guests!
Storage Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding
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Room Temperature: Allow the Eggnog Bread Pudding to cool completely before placing it in storage. It can sit out at room temperature for up to 2 hours after baking.
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Fridge: Store any leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven for best results.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the Eggnog Bread Pudding in an airtight container or wrapped tightly in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: To warm the pudding, microwave individual portions or place it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Enjoy the cozy flavors of this delightful dessert again!
What to Serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Pairing a satisfying side to go along with this festive treat adds another layer of delight to your holiday meal!
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream enhances the pudding’s richness, offering a light contrast to the creamy custard sauce.
- Warm Spiced Cider: Enjoy a cozy, spiced apple cider that complements the cinnamon and nutmeg flavors in the pudding, creating a harmonious blend of warmth.
Serve the Eggnog Bread Pudding alongside a light green salad for balance. The freshness of the salad contrasts beautifully with the dessert’s richness, making each bite refreshing.
- Coffee or Hot Chocolate: Sip on a cup of rich coffee or velvety hot cocoa, both of which pair wonderfully with the comforting warmth of the bread pudding.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: Treat your guests with soft, chewy chocolate chip cookies for a delightful mix of textures that make for a whimsical dessert spread.
- Nutmeg Ice Cream: Scoop a bit of nutmeg or vanilla bean ice cream on the side for an extra creamy component that enhances every bite of the pudding.
- Maple Glazed Carrots: Sweet, tender carrots glazed with maple syrup can be a refreshing contrast that brings a lovely sweetness without overwhelming the palate.
These delightful pairings will surely elevate your holiday dining experience, making this Eggnog Bread Pudding the star of the show!
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Bread Pudding preparations are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the bread pudding mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining the eggnog, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt, then folding in the cubed bread (allowing it to soak for about 10 minutes). Simply cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate to maintain freshness. When ready to enjoy, bake it as directed and serve with warm custard sauce for delightful results that are just as delicious. By prepping the ingredients ahead of time, you’ll save valuable moments during the busy holiday season, letting you focus on sharing sweet memories with loved ones!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on the classic recipe and add your personal touch!
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Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flax eggs and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy for a creamy deliciousness.
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Fruity Boost: Add chopped apples or pears for a fruity element that pairs wonderfully with eggnog and spices.
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Nutty Crunch: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans for added texture and a nutty flavor that enhances every bite.
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Choco-licious: Fold in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich contrast to the warm spices, creating a sublime indulgence.
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Spiced Rum: Swap out the spiced rum in the sauce with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version, still delivering on flavor.
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Cinnamon Roll Twist: Incorporate a swirl of cinnamon and sugar in the pudding mix for a cinnamon roll-inspired treat—delicious and comforting!
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Overnight Soak: For a deeper flavor, prepare the mixture the night before and let it soak in the fridge before baking.
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Gourmet Touch: Drizzle with caramel sauce or sprinkle with sea salt before serving to elevate the sweet, creamy notes of the dessert.
Embrace your creativity with these variations, and watch your Eggnog Bread Pudding turn into a unique family favorite!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Eggnog Bread Pudding?
The best choices for Eggnog Bread Pudding are brioche, challah, or French bread. These varieties are rich and soft, allowing them to absorb the custard mixture beautifully. Stale bread is particularly advisable, as it soaks up the eggnog mixture with ease, resulting in a delightful texture that’s not overly soggy.
How should I store leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Once it has cooled, place the Eggnog Bread Pudding in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat portions in the microwave or in a 350°F oven for around 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Can I freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze your Eggnog Bread Pudding, ensure it is completely cool. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap or place the whole dish in an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
How should I reheat Eggnog Bread Pudding?
For best results, reheat individual servings in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or until warm. If reheating a whole dish, preheat your oven to 350°F and bake for about 15-20 minutes. This allows the pudding to gently warm through without drying out, preserving its lovely, custardy texture.
Is there a dairy-free option for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute the eggnog with a non-dairy alternative, such as almond, soy, or oat milk. For the pudding base, opt for almond milk or coconut milk instead of regular milk. Additionally, replace the butter with vegan butter to keep it completely dairy-free. However, be aware that these substitutions may alter the flavor and texture slightly.
How do I know when my Eggnog Bread Pudding is done baking?
When baking your Eggnog Bread Pudding, look for a golden-brown top and a center that is slightly wiggly. You can also insert a knife into the center; if it comes out clean (with a little custard clinging), it’s done! Overbaking can lead to a dry texture, so be vigilant as you near the 35-minute mark.
Cozy Eggnog Bread Pudding: Your Holiday Dessert Hero
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, milk, sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Gently fold in the cubed bread, ensuring all pieces are coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes.
- Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown.
- While baking, prepare the sauce. In a saucepan, combine eggnog, sugar, and cornstarch; heat until it boils.
- Temper the beaten egg by adding a bit of the hot mixture, then return to the saucepan and thicken over heat.
- Remove from heat and stir in butter and spiced rum. Serve warm over the pudding.