Name: Creamy Eggnog Bread Pudding for a Cozy Holiday Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 8 slices Stale Challah or Brioche Bread (Cut into bite-sized cubes); 4 cups Eggnog (Use homemade or non-dairy for a twist); 3 Large Eggs (At room temperature); 3/4 cup Granulated Sugar (May substitute with brown sugar); 1 tablespoon Vanilla Extract (Use pure vanilla for better flavor); 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (Pumpkin spice can be used); 1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Freshly grated for better flavor); 1/4 teaspoon Salt (A tiny pinch enhances sweetness)

As the holiday season approaches, the scent of nutmeg and cinnamon fills the air, inviting warmth and comfort into our homes. This is the time when we gather with loved ones around the table, sharing cozy desserts that bring us joy. Enter my Eggnog Bread Pudding— a delightful blend of rich eggnog and soft bread that transforms simple ingredients into a stunning holiday treat. Perfectly suited for brunch or dessert, this vegetarian dish is incredibly easy to whip up in just 15 minutes. Imagine serving a scrumptious, crowd-pleasing dessert that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also warms your heart! With its luscious custard texture and festive flavors, this Eggnog Bread Pudding promises to become a cherished addition to your holiday repertoire. Are you ready to make this seasonal gem that everyone will rave about? Let’s dive in!

Why choose Eggnog Bread Pudding?

Decadence at its finest: This Eggnog Bread Pudding infuses rich flavors of nutmeg and vanilla, making every bite a holiday celebration.
Effortless preparation: With just 15 minutes of active time, you’ll have this scrumptious dessert ready to impress.
Crowd-pleaser potential: Perfect for brunch or holiday gatherings, it’s a dish that everyone will love.
Versatile options: Feel free to add your favorite ingredients like chocolate chips or dried fruit for a personal touch.
Warm and cozy: The delightful custard-soaked bread provides a comforting experience that evokes memories of holiday traditions. Don’t forget to pair it with a drizzle of your favorite sauce for an extra touch, much like in our Apple Bread Moist recipe!

Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Pudding

Stale Challah or Brioche Bread – Provides sturdy structure and absorbs custard; using stale bread ensures optimal texture.
Eggnog – Serves as the essential custard base, bringing rich flavor and moisture; try homemade or non-dairy versions for a unique twist.
Large Eggs – Vital for binding the mixture and enriching the custard; be sure to use eggs at room temperature for better mixing.
Granulated Sugar – Adds sweetness to balance the flavors; consider brown sugar for deeper caramel notes.
Vanilla Extract – Infuses aromatic flavor; opt for pure vanilla over imitation for enhanced richness.
Ground Cinnamon – Contributes warmth and depth; you can substitute pumpkin spice for a festive twist.
Ground Nutmeg – A holiday flavor staple; freshly grated nutmeg offers an intense punch.
Salt – Enhances sweetness and balances overall flavor; a tiny pinch can make a big difference.

This Eggnog Bread Pudding is a delightful treat that effortlessly combines simplicity with festive flair!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven heats, take a 9×13 inch baking dish and generously grease it with butter or non-stick spray to prevent the Eggnog Bread Pudding from sticking. This small step ensures a smooth release after baking, making for a delightful presentation.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until evenly combined. Next, crack in the large eggs, beating them into the mixture before slowly pouring in the eggnog. Continue whisking until the custard base is smooth and well-blended, creating a rich foundation for your pudding.

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Cut your stale challah or brioche bread into bite-sized cubes, placing them in the greased baking dish. Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring every piece is saturated. Gently toss the bread with your hands to maximize absorption, making sure it soaks up that delicious eggnog flavor for the perfect Eggnog Bread Pudding.

Step 4: Allow to Soak
After assembling, press down the bread lightly with the back of a spatula to create an even layer. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a clean kitchen towel and let it rest for about 30 minutes. This soaking time allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a moist and flavorful pudding.

Step 5: Bake the Pudding
Remove the cover from the baking dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. Keep an eye on the Eggnog Bread Pudding towards the end of baking; it should have a fluffy yet set consistency.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and allow the Eggnog Bread Pudding to cool for about 20-30 minutes. This resting period helps it slice cleanly. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar if desired, and consider pairing it with eggnog sauce or whipped cream for an extra touch of festive indulgence.

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog Bread Pudding preparations are a dream come true for busy home cooks! You can assemble the entire dish up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the bread to soak in the custard overnight for maximum flavor. Simply follow the instructions up to baking, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. To maintain the delightful texture, it’s important to ensure the bread cubes are well-saturated to avoid dryness. When it’s time to impress your guests, just pop the pudding in a preheated oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Voila! You’ll have a stunning holiday dessert ready with minimal effort.

Eggnog Bread Pudding Customizations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and make this Eggnog Bread Pudding your own—it’s all about the joy of cooking!

Dairy-Free: Substitute eggnog with a non-dairy version, such as almond or coconut milk, for a lighter twist.
Add Some Fruit: Incorporate dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped apples for a natural sweetness that complements the custard beautifully.
Nutty Crunch: Add in chopped pecans or walnuts for an extra layer of texture and a delightful crunch. The combination of creaminess from the pudding and the nutty bits is simply divine!
Chocolate Lovers: Swirl in some chocolate chips to create delightful pockets of melted chocolate throughout the pudding, making it a decadent treat. Consider pairing with our Cinnamon Swirl Banana Bread for more sweet options!
Spicy Variation: Introduce a slight kick by adding a sprinkle of cayenne pepper or using gingerbread spice instead of the traditional cinnamon. It’s a surprising yet delightful change!
Boozy Addition: For the adults, mix in a splash of rum or bourbon to the custard for a festive adult twist that adds warmth to every bite.
Pumpkin Delight: During fall, add pumpkin puree and spices for a seasonal twist. Imagine all the cozy flavors of pumpkin pie wrapped in your comforting bread pudding!
Serving Style: Top with a caramel sauce or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to elevate your dessert experience. Consider drizzling with our scrumptious Apple Bread Moist sauce for added flavor!

With these additions, your Eggnog Bread Pudding can transform into a unique masterpiece that reflects your personal taste. Enjoy the process and happy baking!

What to Serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding?

As you prepare to indulge in the comforting flavors of this holiday delight, consider these perfect pairings to elevate your meal.

Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture to the rich pudding, enhancing every bite.
Eggnog Sauce: Drizzled over the bread pudding, this creamy sauce will echo the flavors and bring a festive touch to your dessert.
Cranberry Compote: The tartness of a homemade cranberry compote perfectly contrasts the sweetness of the pudding, cutting through the richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of vanilla ice cream melts beautifully when placed on warm pudding, creating a luxurious dessert experience.
Spiced Chai Tea: The warmth of spiced chai tea complements the holiday spices in the pudding, inviting you to savor every sip alongside your dish.
Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh berries like raspberries or blueberries adds brightness and a refreshing taste, balancing the decadent flavors.
Toasted Nuts: Consider scattering some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch; they add a satisfying texture contrast and extra flavor.
Coffee or Espresso: A robust cup of coffee or espresso pairs wonderfully with eggnog bread pudding, amplifying those warm, cozy feelings during chilly evenings.
Pumpkin Pie: Nothing sets the stage for a festive meal quite like a slice of pumpkin pie, giving your holiday gathering a classic dessert menu.

With these delightful accompaniments, your Eggnog Bread Pudding will shine not only as a comforting treat but as the centerpiece of a joyful holiday meal!

Storage Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. This keeps the Eggnog Bread Pudding fresh and flavorful for your next indulgent treat.

Freezer: If you want to save some for later, freeze it in a tightly sealed container or wrap in plastic wrap for up to 3 months.

Thawing: When ready to enjoy again, thaw your Eggnog Bread Pudding overnight in the fridge. This gentle method preserves the dish’s creamy texture.

Reheating: Warm leftovers in the oven or microwave. For best results, cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave to maintain moisture and prevent dryness.

Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Stale Matters: Using stale bread is key for optimal absorption of the custard. Fresh bread will yield a soggier texture, so consider lightly toasting it first.
Overnight Soaking: For enhanced flavor and texture, prepare the pudding the night before and let it soak in the refrigerator. This step deepens the richness of your Eggnog Bread Pudding.
Mix Wisely: Ensure all ingredients, especially eggs, are at room temperature before mixing. This allows for a smoother and richer custard without clumps.
Even Baking: Rotate the baking dish halfway through cooking to ensure uniform baking, especially if your oven has hot spots.
Storage Tips: Allow any leftovers to completely cool before storing in an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, or you can freeze it for up to 3 months.
Reheating Best Practices: To maintain the pudding’s creamy texture, reheat leftovers gently in the oven or microwave, covering with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out.

Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What type of bread should I use for the best Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for stale challah or brioche bread. Stale bread absorbs the custard better and gives the pudding a tender, custardy texture. If you only have fresh bread, you can slice it and lightly toast it in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes to dry it out slightly before using it.

How should I store leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Very good question! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. This will keep it fresh and delicious for your next serving. Just make sure it’s cool before sealing it to prevent excess moisture buildup.

Can I freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding, and how should I do it?
Yes, indeed! You can freeze your Eggnog Bread Pudding for up to 3 months. To freeze, ensure it has cooled completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or place it in a freezer-safe container. To enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating in the oven to reintroduce some moisture.

What can I do if my Eggnog Bread Pudding turns out soggy?
I understand how frustrating that can be! If your pudding turns out soggy, it might be due to too much custard or not allowing it to rest long enough. To troubleshoot for next time, ensure you’re using stale bread and allowing the pudding to soak for at least 30 minutes. You can also consider reducing the eggnog slightly if you like a firmer texture.

Are there any dietary considerations with this recipe?
Absolutely! This Eggnog Bread Pudding is vegetarian-friendly, but if you have allergies or dietary restrictions, such as nut allergies, ensure that your bread and eggnog are nut-free. For a dairy-free version, you can use non-dairy eggnog alternatives, which are widely available now. Always check labels to find the best options for your dietary needs.

Can I enhance the flavor of my Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Very much so! To enhance the flavor, consider adding mix-ins like chocolate chips, dried fruit, or even nuts for added texture. For an adults-only twist, you might also incorporate a splash of bourbon or rum into the custard mixture. Whatever you choose, feel free to get creative—it’s all about making it your own!