If you’re looking to add a warm, festive touch to your holiday mornings or cozy winter gatherings, this Eggnog Bread with Glaze is exactly what you need. This rich, moist bread infused with the classic spices of eggnog, then topped with a sweet, creamy glaze, makes every bite feel like a celebration. Whether you’re an experienced baker or just starting out, this easy recipe delivers incredible flavor and a charming homemade look that’s perfect for sharing with family and friends. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Eggnog Bread with Glaze and make your kitchen smell like a holiday dream!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Festive Flavors: The cozy blend of nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla brings the beloved taste of eggnog into every slice.
- Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and easy-to-find eggnog, so you can whip it up anytime.
- Perfect Texture: A moist crumb that’s tender yet sturdy, making it ideal for breakfast, snacks, or dessert.
- Beautiful Presentation: The glossy glaze adds an inviting finish that’s as stunning as it is delicious.
- Great for Gifting: Wrapped nicely, this bread makes a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and neighbors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Eggnog Bread with Glaze recipe is as straightforward as it is flavorful. Each ingredient is chosen to contribute to the bread’s moist texture, rich taste, or festive color, creating a harmonious holiday treat.
- Eggnog: The star ingredient, providing creaminess and the signature holiday flavor.
- All-purpose flour: Forms the structure of the bread while keeping it light.
- Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the spices and enhance the eggnog’s natural richness.
- Butter: Offers moistness and a buttery depth to the bread.
- Eggs: Bind the ingredients together and give a tender crumb.
- Baking powder and baking soda: Essential leavening agents for a perfect rise.
- Ground nutmeg and cinnamon: Bring warm, holiday spice notes that evoke the classic eggnog flavor.
- Vanilla extract: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the flavor profile.
- Powdered sugar: For the glaze, creating a smooth, sweet topping.
- Milk or additional eggnog: To adjust glaze consistency perfectly.
Variations for Eggnog Bread with Glaze
Feel free to customize this Eggnog Bread with Glaze to suit your tastes or dietary needs. It’s wonderfully flexible, so whether you want it gluten-free, nuttier, or with an extra burst of flavor, it’s easy to adapt.
- Gluten-free option: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free baking blend for a safe treat.
- Nutty addition: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and richness.
- Chocolate lovers: Add mini chocolate chips or a drizzle of melted chocolate over the glaze.
- Dairy-free: Use almond or oat milk eggnog and a non-dairy butter substitute.
- Extra spices: Boost the cinnamon and nutmeg or add a pinch of cloves for a more intense holiday vibe.
How to Make Eggnog Bread with Glaze
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing your loaf pan. Measure and set out all ingredients to keep the process smooth and stress-free.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, nutmeg, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to evenly distribute the leavening agents and spices.
Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar
Using a hand or stand mixer, beat the softened butter with sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to a tender and airy texture.
Step 4: Add Eggs, Vanilla, and Eggnog
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then stir in the vanilla extract. Gradually add the eggnog, mixing until the batter is smooth and combined.
Step 5: Combine Wet and Dry Mixtures
Slowly add the dry ingredients to the wet batter, folding gently to avoid overmixing. The batter should be thick but pourable.
Step 6: Bake the Bread
Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 55–65 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cooling is essential before glazing.
Step 7: Prepare the Glaze
While the bread cools, whisk powdered sugar with a bit of milk or eggnog until smooth and glossy. Adjust the liquid to get your perfect glaze consistency.
Step 8: Glaze the Bread
Drizzle the glaze generously over the top of the cooled loaf. Let it set for 15–20 minutes before slicing to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Bread with Glaze
- Room temperature ingredients: Ensure butter, eggs, and eggnog are at room temperature for smooth mixing and better texture.
- Don’t overmix the batter: Fold gently to avoid tough bread, keeping it soft and tender.
- Check doneness properly: Use a toothpick or cake tester inserted into the center to confirm the bread is fully baked.
- Cool completely before glazing: Warm bread can cause the glaze to melt and run, losing its beautiful finish.
- Adjust glaze thickness: Add liquid a little at a time to get the perfect drizzle consistency without it being too runny or stiff.
How to Serve Eggnog Bread with Glaze
Garnishes
Sprinkle a pinch of ground nutmeg or cinnamon over the glaze, or add chopped nuts on top for extra texture and aroma. A light dusting of powdered sugar can also add a snowy, festive look.
Side Dishes
Pair slices with a hot cup of coffee, spiced chai latte, or classic mulled wine for a festive brunch or afternoon treat. Fresh fruit preserves or cream cheese spread work well if you want a little extra flavor on the side.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the bread into thick, even pieces and serve on a wooden board garnished with fresh rosemary sprigs or cranberries for a seasonal touch. Wrapping individual slices in parchment paper tied with twine makes for charming gifts or party favors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep your Eggnog Bread with Glaze fresh by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or storing it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Freezing
The bread freezes beautifully. Wrap it well in foil or plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months and thaw overnight in the fridge before glazing or serving.
Reheating
Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for about 15 seconds to bring back that soft, freshly baked feel. Avoid overheating so the bread stays moist and delicious.
FAQs
Can I use homemade eggnog for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade eggnog can enhance the flavor with its freshness and unique taste, just be sure it’s thick and creamy for the best results.
Is this bread suitable for kids?
Yes, this Eggnog Bread with Glaze is kid-friendly as long as you use non-alcoholic eggnog or omit any added alcohol from homemade versions.
What substitutions can I make if I don’t have eggnog?
You can substitute with milk mixed with extra spices like nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract—though it won’t be quite as rich, it still tastes delightful.
Does the glaze need to be refrigerated?
If you plan to serve the bread soon, there’s no need to refrigerate. For longer storage, keep the glazed bread covered in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes! Just double the ingredients and bake in two loaf pans or a larger pan, adjusting bake time slightly and checking doneness frequently.
Final Thoughts
This Eggnog Bread with Glaze is such a joyful and comforting treat that perfectly captures the essence of the holidays. It’s easy to make, smells heavenly while baking, and tastes like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re enjoying it with loved ones or gifting it to someone special, this recipe is a delightful way to add magic to your festive season. Give it a try, and soon it might become your new favorite holiday tradition!