There’s something magical about the way a kitchen fills with warmth when the flavors of the holidays come together. As the aroma of delicious Eggnog Bread Pudding wafts through the air, it’s like a warm hug that wraps you up in sweet nostalgia. Gather ‘round the table, dear friend, for this recipe is sure to create cherished memories with every lovely bite.
Why make this recipe
Eggnog Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert; it’s a beautiful reminder of all those cozy family gatherings. It brings a touch of holiday spirit right into your home, transforming simple ingredients into a delightful dish that feels like a celebration with each spoonful. Perfect for chilly nights or festive gatherings, this dish will surely become a beloved family tradition.
How to make Eggnog Bread Pudding
Ingredients:
- 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, or whipped cream
Directions:
Prepare the Bread and Custard:
Begin by preheating that oven of yours to a warm 350°F (175°C). In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk it all together until you have a smooth custard that sings of the season. Now, gently fold in the cubed bread, making sure each piece is soaked in that sweet, spiced goodness. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes so the bread can soak up every bit of that creamy custard.
Assemble the Bread Pudding:
Grab a lovely baking dish—something that feels special, maybe even passed down through your family. Lightly grease it with some of that melted butter, and then pour in your custard-soaked bread mixture. Use a spatula to press it down gently, ensuring it all fits snugly together like a family at the dinner table.
Bake the Bread Pudding:
Place the dish in the preheated oven, letting it bake for 40-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. Oh, the smell that will fill your home during this time! You might even hear fond murmurs from hungry loved ones nearby, eagerly waiting.
Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, give it a moment to cool while you delight in the aroma. You can sprinkle it with a dusting of powdered sugar, drizzle on some caramel sauce, or serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream, depending on your heart’s desire!
How to serve Eggnog Bread Pudding
Serve this warm, crispy topped delight in lovely bowls, perhaps with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a swish of whipped cream on top. It goes wonderfully with a steaming cup of coffee or a cozy mug of hot chocolate. It’s perfect for sharing stories around the table, creating that essential family bond over sweet flavors and laughter.
How to store Eggnog Bread Pudding
If you find yourself with leftovers (which is a real rarity with this dish!), simply cover it with plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for a quick treat!
Tips to make Eggnog Bread Pudding
- Do let the bread sit long enough in the custard to absorb the flavors—it makes all the difference!
- Experiment with your favorite holiday spices; a touch of cloves can add a special twist!
- For extra richness, swap out some eggnog for cream in the custard mixture.
Variations
Feeling adventurous? You can add some dried fruits like cranberries or raisins for a delightful chew in every bite. Or perhaps swirl in some chocolate chips to create a more decadent dessert that will charm the younger munchkins at the table.
FAQs
Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?
While you can use fresh bread, day-old bread helps the pudding absorb the custard better, making it lovelier! However, if fresh is what you’ve got, just let it sit out for a while to dry out a bit.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the pudding the night before and store it in the fridge, then simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake it.
What should I do if my pudding is too soggy?
A soggy pudding usually means too much custard or not enough time to bake. Ensure you stick to the recipe measurements, and if it’s not set after baking, pop it back in the oven for a bit longer.
As we gather around our tables, sharing love and laughter through food, Eggnog Bread Pudding is certain to bring a sense of comfort and joy. So gather your loved ones, pour a cup of warmth, and delight in this heartwarming dish that reminds us just how special it is to celebrate together.
Eggnog Bread Pudding
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk together until smooth.
- Fold in the cubed bread, ensuring each piece is soaked in the custard. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes.
- Lightly grease a baking dish with melted butter and pour in the custard-soaked bread mixture. Press down gently.
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set.
- Allow it to cool slightly, then optionally sprinkle with powdered sugar, drizzle with caramel sauce, or serve with whipped cream.