Every holiday season, I find myself longing for comforting flavors and cherished traditions, and this Creamy Eggnog Bread Pudding captures both perfectly. With its delightful infusion of warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a festive masterpiece. As a holiday dessert that doubles as a cozy breakfast, this Eggnog Bread Pudding not only boasts a melt-in-your-mouth texture but also requires minimal prep time—a win for busy mornings! Whether you’re serving it at a Thanksgiving gathering or enjoying it on a relaxing Christmas morning, this recipe is sure to spread joy and warmth. Ready to indulge in this festive delight? Let’s get started on bringing the holiday spirit to your table! Why is Eggnog Bread Pudding Irresistible? Decadent Flavor: Every bite of this Eggnog Bread Pudding is like a warm hug, blending creamy eggnog, rich spices, and crusty bread for a delightful experience. Versatile Enjoyment: Whether you serve it as a holiday brunch treat or a cozy dessert, its appeal knows no bounds. Quick & Easy: In just a few simple steps, you’ll have a stunning dish that boasts minimal prep time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters—spending time with loved ones. Crowd-Pleaser: This dessert serves up to a crowd and is perfect for festive gatherings, making you the hit of any celebration! For more crowd-pleasing dishes, check out my Gingerbread Pancakes Flapjacks or the delicious Garlic Bread Pizza. Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients For the Pudding Stale Challah or Brioche Bread – A key component that adds moisture and texture. If fresh, toast the cubes at 350°F for 10-14 minutes until dry. Eggnog – This creamy liquid is crucial for infusing flavor; choose your favorite store-bought or homemade version for the best results. Large Eggs – Vital for binding everything together, they enhance the custard’s richness; use room temperature eggs for easier mixing. White Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the dish perfectly; can be replaced with brown sugar for a richer taste. Vanilla Extract – Elevates the flavor profile; pure vanilla extract is recommended for the most authentic aroma. Ground Cinnamon – Adds a warm spice, but feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences! Ground Nutmeg – A classic holiday flavor; fresh nutmeg offers an even bolder taste that enhances this Eggnog Bread Pudding. Salt – A pinch is necessary to balance sweetness and elevate the other flavors. For Serving Powdered Sugar – An optional topping to dust on top for that beautiful presentation. Eggnog Sauce or Whipped Cream – Perfect for drizzling or dolloping on your warm pudding, adding extra creaminess! With these simple yet essential ingredients, you’re ready to create a holiday masterpiece that will warm hearts and bellies. Let’s dive into the delightful process of making this Eggnog Bread Pudding! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While it warms up, grab a 13×9 inch baking dish and generously grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. This step is essential for achieving that perfect golden crust on your Eggnog Bread Pudding, allowing it to come out cleanly and beautifully. Step 2: Whisk the Custard In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Next, add in the large eggs, mixing thoroughly until the mixture is smooth. Gradually pour in the eggnog, continuing to whisk until everything is fully integrated. The custard should have a rich, creamy appearance, showcasing vibrant flavors that will soak into the bread. Step 3: Assemble the Pudding Take your prepared baking dish and fill it with cubes of stale challah or brioche bread. Pour the luscious custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Gently toss the bread with a spatula to help it absorb the custard, creating that indulgent texture that makes Eggnog Bread Pudding so delightful. Step 4: Let it Soak Once the bread and custard are combined, press the bread down gently to ensure maximum soaking. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, allowing it to rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This resting period is crucial, as it enables the bread to fully absorb the custard, leading to a moist and custardy finish. Step 5: Bake to Perfection After the resting period, remove the cover and place the baking dish in your preheated oven. Bake for 45-55 minutes or until the top is golden brown, and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. You’ll know your Eggnog Bread Pudding is ready when it’s puffed slightly and has a nice, firm texture but is still moist inside. Step 6: Serve and Enjoy Allow the baked Eggnog Bread Pudding to cool at room temperature for about 20-30 minutes before serving. Dust the top with powdered sugar for an elegant finish, and consider serving it warm with a drizzle of eggnog sauce, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scoop of ice cream. This festive treat is perfect for holiday mornings or gatherings, making every bite truly special! Eggnog Bread Pudding Customization Ideas Feel free to let your creativity shine by tweaking this Eggnog Bread Pudding recipe to suit your taste buds and occasion! Dairy-Free: Substitute the eggnog with almond or coconut milk for a deliciously creamy vegan option. Fruit-Infused: Mix in dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a delightful burst of flavor and texture in every bite. The chewy sweetness adds a nice contrast to the creamy custard. Chocolate Lover: Toss in chocolate chips or chunks for a decadent twist. They’ll melt slightly in the oven, creating gooey pockets of chocolate bliss throughout. Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts for a delightful crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the spices beautifully. Spiced Up: Amp up the heat by sprinkling in some cayenne pepper or chili powder for an unexpected but exhilarating kick that dances on your palate. Rum-Soaked: For an adult version, add a splash of dark rum to the custard mixture. It pairs perfectly with the flavors of eggnog and spices, elevating the festive experience. Savory Twist: Incorporate savory ingredients like crumbled bacon or a sprinkle of blue cheese for an intriguing balance of sweet and salty that’s sure to surprise your guests. Oven-Free: If you’re pressed for time, try making a quick bread pudding on the stovetop in a skillet, creating a warm and comforting dessert that can be ready in minutes. For more indulgent ideas, don’t miss my delightful Gingerbread Pancakes Flapjacks or the deliciously easy Garlic Bread Pizza that will add festive flair to your meal plan! Make Ahead Options These Eggnog Bread Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks! You can assemble the pudding up to 24 hours in advance by following the full recipe instructions, up to the point of baking. Simply prepare the custard and mix it with the bread cubes, then cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate it overnight. This allows the bread to soak up all those delicious flavors while ensuring it stays moist and custardy. When you’re ready to bake, just remove it from the fridge, uncover, and place it in the preheated oven. You’ll have a delightful holiday treat with minimal morning effort, allowing you to spend more time with loved ones! What to Serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding As you gather around the table to enjoy this festive delight, consider these delicious accompaniments to elevate your holiday experience. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery, smooth texture pairs beautifully with the richness of the bread pudding. Spiced Apple Cider: Offering a warm, inviting sip, this drink enhances the cozy flavors of the spices in the pudding. Cranberry Sauce: A tart contrast to the sweetness of the pudding, this sauce adds brightness to your holiday plate. Fresh Fruit Salad: Light and refreshing, a mix of seasonal fruits can cleanse the palate and add a pop of color to your meal. Maple Glazed Ham: This savory centerpiece complements the dessert’s sweetness, creating a delightful balance of flavors. Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: Perfect for topping your bread pudding, these rich additions add extra creaminess and indulgence. With these serving ideas, your Eggnog Bread Pudding will shine as the beloved star of your holiday spread! Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding Stale Bread Benefits: Using stale bread is crucial for absorbing the custard. If you don’t have stale bread, toast fresh cubes beforehand for optimal results. Egg Temperature Matters: Ensure your eggs are at room temperature before mixing. This helps create a smoother custard mixture for your Eggnog Bread Pudding. Don’t Rush the Soaking: Allowing the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes is vital. This step guarantees a moist and custardy texture, so resist the urge to skip it! Check for Doneness: For perfectly baked bread pudding, insert a knife into the center; it should come out clean when done. Aim for a golden brown top for added appeal. Make Ahead Option: Assemble your Eggnog Bread Pudding the night before, refrigerate, and simply bake in the morning for a hassle-free holiday breakfast. Storage Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps your Eggnog Bread Pudding fresh and ready to enjoy anytime. Freezer: For longer storage, place the pudding in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Ensure it’s tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. Reheating: Before serving, thaw frozen pudding overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until warm. Make-Ahead: If you’re planning for a festive gathering, consider assembling the pudding a day in advance and refrigerating it. Bake fresh before serving! Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs How do I select the right bread for Eggnog Bread Pudding? Absolutely! When choosing bread, opt for stale challah or brioche for the best texture. Fresh bread will work in a pinch if you toast it at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-14 minutes until the cubes are dry. Look for a bread that is golden and crusty, as this will absorb the custard well without falling apart. What’s the best way to store leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding? Very! To keep your Eggnog Bread Pudding fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat when you’re ready to enjoy it again, either in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes or in the microwave for a quicker option. Can I freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding, and if so, how? Absolutely! You can freeze your Eggnog Bread Pudding for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat it in the oven or microwave. What should I do if my Eggnog Bread Pudding seems too dry? If your pudding seems dry, it may be due to insufficient soaking time or using overly dry bread. Next time, ensure that the bread is adequately soaked in the custard for at least 30 minutes. If you find yourself in a bind, you can drizzle a little eggnog or milk over the top before serving to moisten it up. Is Eggnog Bread Pudding suitable for people with allergies? When it comes to allergies, it’s important to be cautious. This recipe contains eggs and dairy, so it’s not suitable for vegans or those with dairy or egg allergies. You can substitute with plant-based egg alternatives and dairy-free milk, but I recommend doing a little testing to ensure your custard will set properly. How long can Eggnog Bread Pudding be made ahead of time? Very! You can assemble Eggnog Bread Pudding up to a day ahead of time. After preparing, cover it tightly and place it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it. Just pop it into the preheated oven straight from the fridge when you’re ready for that warm, hearty dessert! Irresistible Eggnog Bread Pudding for Cozy Holiday Mornings Eggnog Bread Pudding is a festive dessert that combines creamy eggnog and warm spices in a delightful, comforting dish perfect for holiday mornings. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 55 minutes minsSoaking Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 1 hour hr 40 minutes mins Servings: 8 slicesCourse: DessertCuisine: AmericanCalories: 320 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Pudding8 slices Stale Challah or Brioche Bread If fresh, toast the cubes at 350°F for 10-14 minutes until dry.4 cups Eggnog Choose your favorite store-bought or homemade version for the best results.4 large Large Eggs Use room temperature eggs for easier mixing.1 cup White Granulated Sugar Can be replaced with brown sugar for a richer taste.2 teaspoons Vanilla Extract Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the most authentic aroma.1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon Feel free to adjust according to your taste preferences.0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg Fresh nutmeg offers an even bolder taste.0.5 teaspoon Salt A pinch is necessary to balance sweetness and elevate the other flavors.For Serving0.25 cup Powdered Sugar Optional topping to dust on top.1 cup Eggnog Sauce or Whipped Cream Perfect for drizzling or dolloping on your warm pudding. Equipment 13x9 inch baking dishMixing bowlWhiskSpatula Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread PuddingPreheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 13x9 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.In a large mixing bowl, whisk together sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Add in large eggs and mix thoroughly, then gradually pour in the eggnog.Fill the prepared baking dish with cubes of stale challah or brioche bread. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes and gently toss to absorb the custard.Press the bread down gently and cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes.Remove the cover and bake for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.Allow the baked pudding to cool for 20-30 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar and serving warm with eggnog sauce, whipped cream, or ice cream. Nutrition Serving: 1sliceCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 8gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 6gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 230mgPotassium: 200mgFiber: 1gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 500IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 1mg NotesUsing stale bread helps absorb the custard. For best results, allow the bread to soak for 30 minutes. Can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
