Introduction
As the holiday season approaches, there’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked bread wafting through your home. This Christmas Eggnog Bread is a perfect blend of festive flavors that will envelop you in cozy cheer. With its rich, creamy eggnog base and a hint of nutmeg, each bite is reminiscent of classic holiday festivities, making it a delightful treat for family gatherings or cozy evenings by the fire. Let’s dive into this simple yet indulgent recipe that promises to become a beloved holiday staple!
Ingredients
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup melted butter
- 1 cup eggnog
- 2 tablespoons rum flavor extract
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 ¼ cups all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 60 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Yield: 8 servings
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan to ensure an easy release.
- In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs and sugar together until the mixture is smooth and creamy. This step will add a lovely sweetness to our bread!
- Stir in the melted butter, eggnog, rum flavor extract, and vanilla extract, mixing well until everything is fully combined.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and ground nutmeg. This blend of dry ingredients will provide the perfect texture and flavor.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, stirring gently just until combined. Take care not to overmix; we want a tender loaf!
- Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even bake.
- Bake for 55-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean, signaling that the bread is perfectly baked.
- Once done, allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. The aroma will have your family gathering around before it’s even cool!
Notes or Tips
- For an extra festive touch, consider adding chopped nuts or dried cranberries to the batter before baking.
- This bread pairs wonderfully with butter or a cream cheese spread, enhancing its rich flavor.
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days or in the refrigerator for up to a week—if it lasts that long!
Cooking Techniques
This recipe utilizes a simple quick bread method, which means there’s no need for yeast and rising. The combination of baking powder and the liquid ingredients provides the lift and fluffiness we crave. When combining wet and dry ingredients, folding carefully ensures a dreamy, tender texture. Make sure to check doneness with a toothpick; it’s a reliable way to know when your bread is ready to come out of the oven!
FAQ
Can I use a different flavor of extract? Absolutely! You can substitute the rum flavor with any other extract you prefer, such as almond or coconut, to cater to your taste.
Can I freeze this bread? Yes! This eggnog bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing it in the freezer. It can be thawed at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy it.
How do I know if my bread is baked through? In addition to the toothpick test, the bread should be golden brown on top and spring back slightly when gently pressed.
Conclusion
This Christmas Eggnog Bread is not just a treat; it’s an experience—a slice of holiday joy baked into every loaf. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it alone with your favorite cup of tea or coffee, this bread is sure to bring warmth and cheer to your festive celebrations. So preheat that oven, gather your ingredients, and let’s create some sweet holiday memories together!