As the weather cools and cozy evenings beckon, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of homemade desserts to lift the spirit. I discovered this delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding recipe during a bustling holiday season, when our family’s love for eggnog led to an unexpected overflow of leftovers. Instead of letting that creamy, spiced goodness go to waste, I transformed it into a warm and indulgent treat that has since become a festive staple in my kitchen.
Imagine the rich aroma of vanilla and nutmeg swirling in the air as this pudding bakes to golden perfection, waiting to be served warm with a drizzle of cream or a scoop of ice cream. What I love most is how this simple dessert elevates even the most ordinary gatherings, turning them into memorable moments filled with laughter and joy. Plus, it’s an easy way to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen! Join me as we dive into this recipe that combines the best of rustic baking with the festive flavors of the season.
Why You'll Love This Eggnog Bread Pudding
- This Eggnog Bread Pudding is incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice and seasoned bakers alike.
- Its delightful blend of festive spices creates an irresistible flavor that will warm your heart and fill your home with a cozy aroma.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing you to personalize it with your favorite mix-ins like raisins or nuts, making it unique to your taste.
- Visually, it boasts a beautiful golden brown top that makes it an eye-catching centerpiece for any gathering.
Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients
• Dive into the festive flavors with this easy-to-follow list!
For the Base
- 4 cups stale French bread or challah – a perfect way to reduce waste while adding a delightful texture.
- 2 cups eggnog – infuses the pudding with that rich, spiced flavor that makes this dish so special.
- 3 large eggs – helps bind the pudding for a creamy consistency.
For Sweetness & Spice
- 1/2 cup brown sugar – adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that complements the spices beautifully.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – enhances the warmth and coziness of this Eggnog Bread Pudding.
- 1/2 tsp freshly grated nutmeg – brings a nutty aroma and enhances the festive flair of the dish.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – adds a lovely depth of flavor.
For Preparation
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for greasing) – ensures your pudding doesn’t stick to the dish, making for an easy cleanup.
Optional Mix-ins
- 1/2 cup raisins or nuts – toss in your favorites to give your pudding an added texture and flavor dimension.
How to Make Eggnog Bread Pudding
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a baking dish with butter. This step ensures the pudding slides out effortlessly when it’s time to serve!
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Cube the stale French bread or challah into 1-inch pieces and place them in a large bowl. Using stale bread adds a delightful texture and allows it to soak up the custard perfectly.
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Whisk together the eggnog, eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract in another bowl until everything is well combined. This creamy mixture is what makes your pudding rich and flavorful!
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Pour the aromatic custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently fold them together until all the bread is fully soaked. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to blend beautifully.
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Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the greased baking dish; feel free to top it with raisins or nuts if you’re using them. This not only adds flavor but also a lovely crunch!
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Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set in the middle. The sweet aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone eager to dig in! Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
Optional: Drizzle with warm cream for an extra indulgent touch!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this comforting dessert with these delicious twists!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute the stale bread with gluten-free bread to enjoy the same comforting texture without gluten.
- Boozy Boost: Add a splash of bourbon or rum to the eggnog mixture for an adult twist that brings an extra layer of warmth.
- Fruit Medley: Instead of raisins, fold in a mix of cranberries and diced apples for a tart and sweet bounty in every bite.
- Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in chocolate chips for a decadent dessert that adds richness to the spiced flavors of your pudding.
- Coconut Cream: Use coconut milk in place of eggnog for a tropical twist, giving the pudding a luscious and creamy feel.
Imagine enjoying a slice with friends, each bite bursting with unexpected notes that dance on your palate. You’ll find joy in exploring these variations, creating your signature version of this classic dish!
- Nutty Delight: Incorporate toasted nuts like pecans or walnuts for a crunchy contrast and delightful flavor burst.
- Maple Infusion: Swap out brown sugar for pure maple syrup, adding a beautiful depth of flavor and a hint of caramel sweetness.
What to Serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding?
As you savor each bite of this warm, spiced delight, consider pairing it with complementary sides and drinks that enhance the cozy experience.
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a luscious, airy texture that balances the richness of the pudding beautifully.
- Cranberry Sauce: Tart, tangy cranberry sauce brings a refreshing contrast to the sweetness, creating a delightful flavor harmony.
- Spiced Apple Cider: This warm, aromatic drink echoes the comforting spices in the pudding, making every sip feel like a hug on a chilly day.
- Vanilla Ice Cream: Creamy vanilla ice cream melts atop the warm pudding, creating a soothing, decadent dessert experience perfect for indulgence.
Picture this: your Eggnog Bread Pudding served warm with ice cream slowly melting into its golden crust—pure bliss!
- Candied Pecans: Add some crunch! These sweet, nutty bites offer an excellent textural contrast, making every spoonful exciting.
- Chocolate Sauce: Drizzling chocolate sauce over the pudding can entice the chocolate lovers in your life, introducing a rich new flavor layer.
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: This seasonal favorite unites holiday flavors, enhancing the festivities while perfectly warming your heart on a chilly evening.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Bread Pudding preparations are perfect for busy weeknights and can save you valuable time! You can cube the stale French bread and mix the custard (eggnog, eggs, brown sugar, spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Just store the soaked bread mixture covered in the refrigerator to ensure it remains fresh and flavorful. On the day you plan to serve, simply transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish and bake as directed. This method not only helps in organizing your meal prep but also enhances the flavors, resulting in a dish that’s just as delicious! Enjoy the satisfaction of an effortless dessert that’s ready to delight your guests with minimal last-minute effort.
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Gently reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For freezing, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. This will keep them fresh for up to 2 months.
Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the pudding in the fridge overnight, then reheat as desired for that freshly baked taste.
Reheating: To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave, covered, for a quick warm-up.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the Eggnog Bread Pudding, always use stale bread as it absorbs the custard better, preventing a soggy texture.
- Be sure to whisk the custard mixture thoroughly to fully blend the eggnog and spices for a rich flavor.
- If you prefer a firmer pudding, allow it to rest longer than 10 minutes before baking for better absorption.
- Keep an eye on the pudding while baking and check for doneness around the 40-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best bread for my Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! Stale French bread or challah works best because it soaks up the custard nicely without becoming too mushy. Look for bread that feels dry and crusty, which will give your pudding a lovely texture. If you can, aim for bread that’s at least a day old.
How should I store leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh for about 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through. It’s perfect for those cozy late-night snacks or quick breakfasts!
Can I freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Yes, you can! To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. This method prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat according to your preference.
What should I do if my Eggnog Bread Pudding turns out too soggy?
If your pudding is too soggy, it might be that the bread didn’t absorb the custard properly. To prevent this in the future, ensure you use stale bread and let it soak for at least 10 minutes before baking. For an extra precaution, consider allowing it to rest longer before putting it in the oven.
Is Eggnog Bread Pudding suitable for those with allergies?
Great question! This recipe contains eggs, dairy, and gluten, so it’s not suitable for those with egg or gluten allergies. If you’re looking for an alternative, consider using a gluten-free bread and swapping the eggnog for a non-dairy milk mixed with spices to achieve a similar flavor profile. Always check labels for allergens and consult with your guests if you’re serving them!
Eggnog Bread Pudding
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a baking dish with butter.
- Cube the stale French bread or challah into 1-inch pieces and place them in a large bowl.
- Whisk together the eggnog, eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract in another bowl.
- Pour the aromatic custard mixture over the bread cubes and gently fold them together until fully soaked. Let this mixture sit for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the greased baking dish, topping with raisins or nuts if desired.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and set in the middle.
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