Christmas Eggnog Bread

Step-by-Step Directions for Christmas Eggnog Bread

1. Preheat and Prep: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Mix Dry Ingredients: In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
3. Prepare Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, combine the egg, eggnog, melted butter, and vanilla extract, whisking until smooth.
4. Combine and Fold: Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Use a spatula to gently fold them together until just combined; be careful not to over-mix, as this can make the bread dense.
5. Add Optional Nuts: If using, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts.
6. Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
7. Cool: Let the bread cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
8. Prepare the Glaze: While the bread cools, whisk together the powdered sugar and eggnog in a small bowl until smooth. Drizzle the glaze over the cooled bread and sprinkle with a touch of nutmeg for garnish.

Recipe Tips and Tricks

• Use Fresh Nutmeg: Freshly grated nutmeg really enhances the flavor of this bread, giving it a warm, holiday aroma that’s hard to beat.
• Don’t Overmix: Stirring too much will develop the gluten in the flour, which can make the bread dense. Mix just until everything is combined.
• Make It Your Own: This recipe can easily be adjusted based on your preferences. Add cranberries, chocolate chips, or even a bit of rum extract if you’d like a richer flavor.
• Skip the Glaze for a Lighter Treat: If you prefer a less sweet version, omit the glaze. The bread is delicious on its own with a bit of butter or cream cheese.

FAQ: Common Questions About Christmas Eggnog Bread

Q: Can I use homemade eggnog for this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Homemade eggnog can add a lovely, fresh flavor to this bread. Just make sure it has a similar thickness to store-bought eggnog so that the texture of the bread isn’t affected.

Q: Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can substitute the all-purpose flour with a 1-to-1 gluten-free baking flour. The bread will still have a soft, moist texture.

Q: How long does this bread keep?
A: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months; just let it thaw at room temperature before enjoying.

Q: What can I serve with Christmas Eggnog Bread?
A: This bread pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee, hot cocoa, or even a glass of eggnog. If you’re serving it as a dessert, a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream would make it extra special.

Q: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?
A: Yes, the batter works well for muffins too! Just divide the batter into a lined muffin tin and bake at 350°F for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.