There’s something undeniably cozy about the aroma of warm spices wafting through the kitchen, transporting me back to festive gatherings of yesteryear. This Eggnog Bread Pudding, with its comforting custard and tender bites, is the ultimate celebration of the holiday season. Perfectly simple to prepare, it transforms stale bread into an indulgent dish that’s equally suited for a relaxed brunch or holiday dessert. In just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a mouthwatering meal that champions zero waste and, let’s be honest, is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re gathering with family or hosting close friends, this recipe is destined to bring smiles and spark joy. Ready to dive into this holiday classic? Let’s explore how to make this delicious treat together.
Why is Eggnog Bread Pudding a Must-Try?
Comforting and Indulgent: This Eggnog Bread Pudding is the perfect blend of holiday warmth and decadence, making it a delightful choice for any gathering.
Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can create a dish that wows without the stress—great for keeping the holiday spirit alive!
Stale Bread Magic: Transform simple, stale bread into a luxurious treat that not only reduces waste but also elevates your dessert game.
Flavors that Wow: Infused with nutmeg, vanilla, and cinnamon, this recipe offers a rich culinary experience that embodies the essence of the season.
Versatile Dessert: Whether served warm with whipped cream or as a festive brunch item, it’s a delightful crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly into your holiday plans.
For more delightful variations, consider exploring options like Strawberry Chia Pudding for a fresh twist or savoring a creamy Cream Chia Pudding alongside.
Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients
• For the Custard
- Eggnog – Provides moisture and flavor; using it at room temperature ensures even mixing.
- Large Eggs – Adds richness and binds the mixture; room temperature eggs will create a smoother custard.
- Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness; substituting with brown sugar can enhance the flavor profile.
- Vanilla Extract – Elevates the taste; opt for pure vanilla for the finest quality.
- Ground Cinnamon – Brings warmth and holiday spice; adjust to your preference for more or less warmth.
- Ground Nutmeg – Adds depth of flavor; consider using freshly grated nutmeg for maximum aroma.
- Salt – Balances sweetness; don’t skip this as it adds essential flavor balance.
• For the Bread Base
- Stale Challah or Brioche Bread – Forms the base; at least a day-old loaf is best for optimal custard absorption.
Get ready to whip up a comforting and delicious Eggnog Bread Pudding that’s bound to make your holiday gatherings memorable!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding
Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven warms up, grab a 9×13 inch baking dish and generously grease it with butter or non-stick cooking spray. This will prevent the Eggnog Bread Pudding from sticking and help it achieve that lovely golden finish as it bakes.
Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk these dry ingredients together to blend their flavors. Next, add the large eggs, one at a time, whisking well after each addition. Gradually pour in the room-temperature eggnog, mixing until the custard is smooth and creamy, with a rich aroma filling the air.
Step 3: Assemble the Bread Pudding
Cut your stale challah or brioche bread into bite-sized cubes and place them in the greased baking dish. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring every piece gets coated. Gently toss and press down the bread to make sure all pieces are immersed in the creamy custard for maximum flavor absorption.
Step 4: Let It Rest
Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and allow the mixture to rest for 30 minutes at room temperature. This crucial step lets the stale bread soak up the custard, resulting in a wonderfully moist Eggnog Bread Pudding that will melt in your mouth.
Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Once the resting period is over, uncover the dish and place it in your preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The edges should be slightly puffed and the middle should be set but still soft, promising a delightful custard-like texture.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
After baking, remove the Eggnog Bread Pudding from the oven and allow it to cool for 20-30 minutes before serving. This cooling period lets the pudding firm up a bit, making it easier to slice. When ready to serve, you can dust it with powdered sugar and pair it with a drizzle of eggnog sauce, ice cream, or whipped cream for an extra festive touch.
Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding
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Use Stale Bread: Ensure your challah or brioche bread is at least a day old; this helps absorb the custard better and prevents a soggy texture.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Take the eggs and eggnog out ahead of time to reach room temperature, ensuring a smoother custard that blends easily.
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Watch the Baking Time: Keep an eye on your pudding towards the end of baking. If it’s golden brown and a knife comes out clean, it’s ready to come out—even if it feels a bit soft in the middle.
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Customize with Add-ins: Boost flavor and texture by adding raisins, cranberries, or pecans. These ingredients pair wonderfully with the warm spices in the eggnog bread pudding.
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Prep Ahead of Time: Assemble the dish the night before, cover it, and store it in the fridge. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully overnight.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Bread Puddings are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday season! You can prepare the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance. Simply assemble the pudding by mixing the custard and soaking the bread cubes as directed, then cover and refrigerate it overnight. This resting period allows the flavors to meld beautifully and the bread to absorb the custard, ensuring a delightfully moist texture. When you’re ready to serve, bake the pudding directly from the fridge—no need to thaw! Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time for the best restaurant-quality results. Enjoy the luxury of a soothing, homemade dessert with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Decadent Eggnog Bread Pudding?
There’s nothing quite like creating a memorable meal that highlights the comforting allure of the holiday season.
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Cranberry Orange Relish: Adds a refreshing zing that cuts through the rich custard, bringing a burst of color and zest to your plate. The tartness of cranberries harmonizes beautifully with the spices in the pudding.
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Whipped Cream Clouds: A dollop of freshly whipped cream lends a light, airy contrast to the dense cake-like texture of the pudding. Consider adding a hint of vanilla or a sprinkle of nutmeg for that extra holiday flair.
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Honey-Glazed Carrots: Their natural sweetness pairs well with the spices in the pudding, creating a balanced plate. These tender veggies provide a delightful crunch that complements the custardy softness of the bread pudding.
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Maple Syrup Drizzle: A warm drizzle of maple syrup brings a rich, caramel-like sweetness that enhances every flavorful bite. It can also double as a dipping sauce for those who want to enhance their dessert experience.
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Spiced Apple Compote: This warm, cinnamon-infused compote offers a delightful warmth that resonates with the essence of the pudding. Its chunky texture contrasts nicely, providing bursts of juicy fruit amidst the creamy bread pudding.
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Dairy-Free Eggnog: For a festive drink pairing that aligns with the dish, serve up a cup of dairy-free eggnog. Its flavors echo those in the pudding, creating a wonderfully cohesive dining experience.
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Pecan Pie Bars: For dessert lovers, these bars offer a decadent finish that complements the holiday theme. Their nutty crunch serves as a perfect counterpoint to the creamy richness of eggnog bread pudding.
Let your taste buds celebrate this rich blend of flavors and textures while creating a magical holiday meal everyone will cherish!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful recipe by adding your favorite ingredients and flavors!
- Add-ins: Raisins, cranberries, or pecans add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor. Mix them into the bread cubes for a harmonious blend!
- Alternative Milk: Swap traditional eggnog for almond or coconut milk to create a lighter version that still retains delicious flavor.
- Flavor Tweaks: Add an extra splash of vanilla or a hint of rum for a creamy twist that elevates the custard richness.
- Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Fold in chocolate chips for a decadent spin. The melted chocolate will create heavenly pockets of sweetness in every bite!
- Spicy Kick: Sprinkle in some ground ginger or even a hint of cayenne pepper for a surprising warmth that dances on the palate.
- Citrus Zest: Grate in some orange or lemon zest to add brightness, cutting through the richness beautifully while enhancing the festive feel.
- Nutty Crunch: Substitute almond flour or finely chopped nuts for a toasted nutty flavor that complements the holiday spices perfectly.
- Vegan Option: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use plant-based eggnog for a delightful vegan-friendly version!
As you experiment with these ideas, you might stumble upon combinations that inspire new beloved traditions! For further inspiration, consider trying refreshing options like Strawberry Chia Pudding or cozy up with a comforting Cream Chia Pudding.
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding
Fridge: Store leftover eggnog bread pudding in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Ensure it is completely cooled before sealing to maintain moisture.
Freezer: If you need to freeze, wrap the pudding tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the pudding in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through.
Serving Tip: For an indulgent treat, serve with fresh whipped cream or a drizzle of eggnog sauce right after reheating!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Eggnog Bread Pudding?
For optimal texture and flavor, use stale challah or brioche bread that is at least a day old. The staleness allows for better absorption of the custard mixture, resulting in a moist and rich pudding. If you only have fresh bread, no worries! Just toast the cubes lightly to dry them out before using.
How should I store leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Store any leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to keep its moisture intact. When you’re ready to dig in again, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave for a delicious treat!
Can I freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze your Eggnog Bread Pudding, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
What if my Eggnog Bread Pudding comes out soggy?
If your pudding turns out soggy, it could be due to using fresh bread instead of stale or an excess of custard. To prevent this, always use at least a day-old bread, or lightly toast fresh bread cubes to remove excess moisture. Furthermore, ensuring the custard mixture is well-balanced will help achieve the desired texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Yes, this recipe is vegetarian and can be made suitable for various dietary preferences. If you need to cater to dairy-free diets, consider using plant-based eggnog and almond milk. Always be cautious of potential allergies by checking ingredients, particularly with add-ins like raisins or nuts.
Delicious Eggnog Bread Pudding: A Cozy Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk together and then add the large eggs one at a time, whisking well after each.
- Gradually pour in the eggnog, mixing until the custard is smooth and creamy.
- Cut the stale bread into bite-sized cubes and place them in the greased dish. Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Cover with plastic wrap or a kitchen towel and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Uncover and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until golden brown and a knife inserted comes out clean.
- Remove from the oven and cool for 20-30 minutes before serving.
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