Eggnog Bread Pudding

If you’re looking for a cozy dessert that wraps you in warmth and nostalgia, then this Eggnog Bread Pudding is just the ticket! This recipe combines the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog with comforting bread to create a delightful treat that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s a family gathering during the holidays or a cozy night in, this dish brings everyone together and fills your home with sweet aromas.

What makes this Eggnog Bread Pudding so special is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a dessert that feels indulgent yet surprisingly easy to prepare. It’s a wonderful way to use up day-old bread while treating yourself and your loved ones to something truly delicious!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 15 minutes of prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy, comforting flavors of this pudding. It’s sure to become a family favorite!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready, freeing up your schedule.
• Delicious Flavor: The combination of eggnog, vanilla, and warm spices creates a delightful flavor profile that will warm your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple and wholesome, making it easy to create something special without any fuss. Gather these items, and let’s get started on this delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding!

For the Pudding

• 6 cups day-old bread, cubed (such as brioche or challah)
• 3 cups eggnog
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional Toppings

• Powdered sugar
• Caramel sauce
• Whipped cream

Variations

One of the best things about this Eggnog Bread Pudding is its flexibility! You can easily customize it with different flavors or ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Add some fruit: Toss in some raisins or chopped apples for extra sweetness and texture.
• Try different milk alternatives: For a lighter version, swap eggnog for coconut milk or almond milk.
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for an extra layer of warmth and flavor.
• Make it chocolatey: Stir in some chocolate chips before baking for a decadent twist!

How to Make Eggnog Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that your Eggnog Bread Pudding bakes evenly and develops that lovely golden top we all adore.

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with melted butter. This step is crucial as it prevents sticking and allows for easy serving later on.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. This mixture will be the base of your pudding and infuses every bite with flavor.

Step 4: Mix in the Bread

Gently fold in the cubed bread until all pieces are soaked in the eggnog mixture. Letting the bread soak is important—it helps absorb all those delicious flavors!

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the soaked bread mixture into your prepared baking dish. Spread it out evenly so every piece gets that lovely custardy goodness as it bakes.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Bake in your preheated oven for about 60-70 minutes or until the top is golden brown and set. You want that perfect balance where it’s firm but still soft inside—just like comfort food should be!

Step 7: Serve Warm

Once out of the oven, let your Eggnog Bread Pudding cool slightly before serving. Top with powdered sugar, caramel sauce, or whipped cream if desired. Every spoonful promises warmth and happiness!

Enjoy making this delightful dish—I can’t wait for you to experience how wonderfully comforting it is!

Pro Tips for Making Eggnog Bread Pudding

Bread pudding is such a comforting dessert, and with these handy tips, you’ll be able to make it even more delightful!

• Use stale bread: Day-old bread absorbs the eggnog mixture better, resulting in a creamier texture. Fresh bread might become too soggy, so let your brioche or challah sit out overnight if you can.
• Whisk thoroughly: Make sure to whisk the eggs and eggnog mixture together well to avoid any clumps. This ensures that every bite of your bread pudding is evenly flavored and creamy.
• Let it soak: After mixing the ingredients, allow the bread cubes to soak in the eggnog mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This gives the bread time to absorb all those delicious flavors.
• Bake until golden: Keep an eye on your pudding as it bakes; you want a beautiful golden top! If it starts browning too quickly, cover it loosely with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it continues cooking.
• Chill before serving: For the best texture, let your pudding cool for about 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows it to set up a bit more, making it easier to cut and serve.

How to Serve Eggnog Bread Pudding

Serving your Eggnog Bread Pudding can be just as fun as making it! Here are some creative ideas that will impress your family and friends during any gathering or holiday celebration.

Garnishes

• Powdered sugar: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance and sweetness without overpowering the dish’s flavor.
• Caramel sauce: Drizzling warm caramel sauce over the top creates a rich contrast with the creamy pudding, enhancing its indulgence.
• Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream not only adds a fluffy texture but also complements the spices beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Fresh fruit salad: A refreshing fruit salad made with seasonal fruits adds brightness and balances the richness of the bread pudding.
• Spiced nuts: Roasted spiced nuts provide a crunchy texture contrast and a delightful flavor that pairs wonderfully with the creamy dessert.
• Vanilla ice cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts into each warm serving of bread pudding, creating an irresistible combination of flavors.
• Herbed salad: A simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette brings freshness and acidity that cuts through the richness of the pudding perfectly.

Enjoy crafting this cozy dessert that’s sure to warm hearts and satisfy sweet cravings!

Make Ahead and Storage

Eggnog Bread Pudding is a fantastic recipe for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious leftovers that taste just as great as when fresh. Here’s how to properly store, freeze, and reheat your delightful creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the bread pudding to cool completely before storing.
• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Wrap individual portions of the bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place the bread pudding in a baking dish and cover with foil.
• Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Optionally, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Eggnog Bread Pudding.

Can I use store-bought eggnog for Eggnog Bread Pudding?

Yes! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this recipe. Just choose your favorite brand!

What can I use instead of eggnog in Eggnog Bread Pudding?

You can substitute eggnog with a mixture of milk or cream combined with spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for a similar flavor profile.

Can I make Eggnog Bread Pudding without eggs?

While eggs add richness and help bind the ingredients, you can try using flaxseed meal mixed with water or a commercial egg replacer if you’re looking for an alternative.

How do I know when my Eggnog Bread Pudding is done?

Your bread pudding should be set in the center and slightly golden on top. A knife inserted into the middle should come out clean.

Final Thoughts

Eggnog Bread Pudding is not just a dessert; it’s a warm hug on a plate that evokes cozy memories and festive cheer. I hope you enjoy making this easy, comforting dish as much as I do! Don’t hesitate to experiment with toppings or share it with friends and family; they will surely love it. Happy baking!