Christmas Eggnog Bread

Introduction

What if your favorite holiday drink could be turned into a warm, festive loaf of bread? This Christmas Eggnog Bread is a rich, moist quick bread bursting with creamy eggnog flavor, warm spices, and a sweet glaze that tastes like the holidays. With eggnog sales peaking every December (up over 120% in the U.S. compared to other months), it’s no surprise that creative bakers are turning the seasonal drink into comforting baked goods. This easy recipe is perfect for holiday brunches, edible gifts, or cozy winter mornings.

Ingredients List

For the bread:

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
2 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 cup full-fat eggnog
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 tsp rum extract (optional, but festive)

For the eggnog glaze:

1 cup powdered sugar
2–3 tbsp eggnog
Pinch of nutmeg

Substitutions:

Use plant-based eggnog for a dairy-free version
Substitute coconut sugar or maple sugar for a deeper flavor

Timing

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Bake Time: 45–55 minutes
Cool & Glaze: 20 minutes
Total Time: ~75 minutes

This holiday quick bread comes together 30% faster than most yeasted holiday breads, which can take up to 2 hours or more.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep oven and pan

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan and line with parchment paper for easy removal.

Step 2: Mix dry ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.

Step 3: Cream butter and sugar

In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs one at a time.

Step 4: Combine wet and dry

Add the vanilla and rum extract to the eggnog. Alternately add the dry ingredients and eggnog mixture to the butter mixture, mixing just until combined. Do not overmix.

Step 5: Bake

Pour batter into the prepared pan. Bake for 45–55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.

Step 6: Make glaze

Whisk together powdered sugar, eggnog, and nutmeg until smooth. Drizzle over cooled bread.

Nutritional Information (Per Slice, 12 slices)

Calories: 290
Fat: 12g
Carbs: 41g
Sugar: 24g
Protein: 4g

Healthier Alternatives

Use whole wheat pastry flour for added fiber
Reduce sugar to 3/4 cup and increase spices for a less sweet version
Swap butter for Greek yogurt for a lighter texture

Serving Suggestions

Serve warm with a dusting of powdered sugar and a side of hot cocoa
Slice and toast for a cozy holiday breakfast
Wrap in festive paper and give as homemade gifts

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overbaking: Use a toothpick to check for doneness to avoid a dry loaf
Cold ingredients: Room-temperature eggs and butter help create a smoother batter
Overmixing: Stir until just combined for a tender crumb

Storing Tips

Store at room temperature for up to 3 days, covered tightly
Refrigerate for up to 1 week
Freeze slices for up to 2 months. Thaw and toast for best texture

Conclusion

This Christmas Eggnog Bread is a delicious and festive way to enjoy the flavors of the season. Moist, warmly spiced, and topped with a creamy glaze, it’s perfect for any holiday gathering.

Try this recipe and let us know in the comments how your holiday loaf turned out. Don’t forget to subscribe for more seasonal treats!