The holiday season calls for comforting, festive desserts, and nothing quite captures the spirit like a warm, custardy bread pudding infused with the rich, spiced flavors of eggnog. Our Eggnog Bread Pudding is a show-stopping dish that's surprisingly easy to make, making it perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Forget complicated desserts that keep you tied to the kitchen. This recipe celebrates the simplicity of classic bread pudding while elevating it with the nostalgic taste of eggnog. It's the kind of dessert that fills your home with incredible aromas and leaves everyone craving a second helping.
Why Eggnog Bread Pudding is Your Must-Have Holiday Treat
This festive pudding isn't just delicious; it's also incredibly convenient. You can prepare it ahead of time, allowing the bread to soak up all the flavorful eggnog custard, which results in an unbelievably moist and tender dessert. It's perfect for entertaining, as it frees you up to enjoy your guests without last-minute fuss.
The combination of fluffy bread, creamy eggnog, and a hint of warming spices like nutmeg and cinnamon creates a symphony of flavors that embodies the holiday season. Serve it warm with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even an extra drizzle of rum sauce for an adult twist.
Key Ingredients for Success
While the full list is in the recipe card below, here are the stars of this delightful dish:
- Stale Bread: Essential for absorbing the custard without turning mushy. Brioche or challah offer a wonderfully rich texture.
- Quality Eggnog: The richer, the better! Use your favorite brand or homemade for the ultimate flavor.
- Warming Spices: Freshly grated nutmeg, cinnamon, and a touch of cloves enhance the eggnog's natural warmth.
- Eggs & Sugar: Form the base of the custardy goodness.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps crisp the top.
Did you know that eggnog has a fascinating history, evolving from a medieval European drink to the festive staple we know today? Learn more about its origins and how it became a holiday tradition here.
Tips for a Perfect Bread Pudding Every Time
- Use the Right Bread: As mentioned, stale bread is key. If your bread is fresh, cut it into cubes and let it sit out for several hours, or even overnight, to dry out slightly.
- Don't Overbake: Bake until the pudding is set but still slightly wobbly in the center. Overbaking can lead to a dry texture. A knife inserted into the center should come out mostly clean.
- Cool Slightly Before Serving: While delicious hot, allowing the bread pudding to cool for 15-20 minutes after baking helps it set and makes for easier serving.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. A pinch of allspice or a dash of vanilla extract can also be lovely additions.
Get the Recipe for Eggnog Bread Pudding
Ready to bake this incredibly festive and comforting dessert? Scroll down for the complete, step-by-step recipe that will guide you to a perfect Eggnog Bread Pudding every time. Enjoy the magic of holiday baking!
FAQs
Can I make eggnog bread pudding ahead of time?
Yes, eggnog bread pudding is an excellent make-ahead dessert! You can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it, then bake it just before serving. It also reheats beautifully.
What kind of bread is best for eggnog bread pudding?
For the best texture, use stale or day-old bread that is slightly firm. Brioche, challah, or a good quality white sandwich bread work wonderfully. The sturdier bread absorbs the eggnog mixture without becoming soggy.
How do 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. You can gently reheat individual servings in the microwave or oven until warm.
Can I make eggnog bread pudding without alcohol?
Absolutely! Many commercial eggnogs are already non-alcoholic. If your eggnog contains alcohol and you wish to omit it, simply use a non-alcoholic variety or choose a recipe that uses milk and cream with eggnog spices instead. The flavor will still be wonderfully festive.
Eggnog Bread Pudding
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A rich and creamy bread pudding infused with classic holiday eggnog flavors, perfect for a festive gathering.
Ingredients
8 cups stale challah or brioche bread, cubed (about 1-inch pieces)
4 large eggs
1/2 cup granulated sugar
4 cups store-bought or homemade eggnog
1/4 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon freshly grated nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted, plus more for greasing
Optional: 1/4 cup dark rum or brandy (for adults only)
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared dish.
Step 2: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and granulated sugar until well combined and slightly pale.
Step 3: Gradually whisk in the eggnog, heavy cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and salt. If using, stir in the dark rum or brandy at this point.
Step 4: Pour the eggnog mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread with a spatula to ensure all the cubes are soaked in the liquid. Let it sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
Step 5: Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread pudding.
Step 6: Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out mostly clean. The pudding should be set but still have a slight jiggle in the middle.
Step 7: Remove from the oven and let it cool for at least 15 minutes before serving. This allows the pudding to set properly. Serve warm with your favorite toppings like whipped cream, ice cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Notes
For an extra touch, caramelize the top with a sprinkle of sugar and a kitchen torch. This pudding is also delightful served with a simple vanilla sauce or a boozy hard sauce for adults.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 420 kcal
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 210mg
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