If you have ever wished for a dessert that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day, then the Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe is your new best friend. This classic comfort dish transforms simple cinnamon raisin bread and creamy, spiced eggnog into a luscious baked treat that is perfectly warm, rich, and nostalgic. It’s easy, makes your kitchen smell heavenly, and is ideal for sharing with family and friends during the holidays or any time you want a little festive indulgence.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe lies in its wonderfully straightforward ingredients. Each one plays an important role: the cinnamon raisin bread offers sweet and spicy notes with chewy raisins, while full-fat eggnog brings its creamy richness and distinctive flavor. Eggs bind everything together, creating a custard that gets luxuriously soft once baked.
- Cinnamon raisin bread, 6 cups cubed (about 6 to 9 slices): Choose a thick, sturdy bread for the best texture and flavor absorption.
- Full-fat eggnog, 2 cups (500ml): This is the star ingredient that makes your pudding delectably smooth and fragrant.
- Large eggs, 4: They help set the custard and add richness and structure to your bread pudding.
- Butter, for greasing: Prevents sticking and adds a subtle buttery aroma to your baking dish.
How to Make Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by cubing your cinnamon raisin bread and placing it evenly into a buttered 8-inch square ceramic or glass baking dish. Buttering the dish not only prevents sticking but also adds a lovely aroma that complements the baked pudding.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the full-fat eggnog and the eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard base is key for soaking into the bread and creating that signature creamy texture.
Step 3: Combine Bread and Custard
Pour the eggnog and egg mixture over the cubed bread. Gently stir or press the bread down just enough to ensure every piece is fully coated with the custard. This step helps every bite soak up all the luscious flavors.
Step 4: Chill Before Baking
Cover your dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, but preferably up to 1 day. This resting time allows the bread to soak thoroughly, so the finished pudding is perfectly moist and custardy inside without being soggy.
Step 5: Preheat and Bake
When you’re ready to bake, remove the dish from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This high temperature ensures a lovely golden puff on top while gently cooking the custard inside.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Bake for 35 to 45 minutes until the pudding is golden and puffed up. A good test for doneness is inserting a thin knife into the center; it should come out clean. After baking, let the pudding rest for about 15 minutes to set before serving warm and comforting.
How to Serve Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe
Garnishes
The beautiful simplicity of this bread pudding allows for some creative garnishing. Dust it lightly with powdered sugar or cinnamon to highlight the sweet-spiced notes. For an extra indulgent touch, drizzle warm caramel sauce or a bourbon-spiked whipped cream on top to add luscious depth and festive flair.
Side Dishes
While the Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe is delicious on its own, pairing it with fresh fruit like spiced poached pears or a small scoop of vanilla ice cream can balance the richness perfectly. These sides add different textures and brightness, making your dessert experience even more delightful.
Creative Ways to Present
To wow guests, serve individual portions in charming ramekins or mason jars, topped with a sprig of fresh mint or a cinnamon stick for garnish. For a holiday centerpiece, bake the pudding in a decorative dish and let everyone spoon out their portions, encouraging a warm and communal dining vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The pudding will keep its creamy texture and all those delicious seasonal flavors, ready for a quick snack or dessert anytime.
Freezing
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place in freezer containers for up to 2 months. When you want to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place portions on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave individual servings for 30 to 60 seconds—just enough to bring back the custardy warmth without drying it out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While cinnamon raisin bread adds extra sweetness and spice, sturdy breads like brioche or challah also work wonderfully because they absorb the custard well without falling apart.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the full-fat eggnog for a dairy-free alternative such as almond or coconut milk-based eggnog, and use a vegan bread. Keep in mind this will slightly change the flavor but still produce a delicious pudding.
Can I add extra spices to enhance the flavor?
Definitely! Adding a sprinkle of nutmeg, cinnamon, or even a dash of ground ginger to the custard can elevate the festive spice profile. Just be careful not to overpower the delicate eggnog flavor.
How long can I soak the bread before baking?
The recipe suggests at least 1 hour or up to 1 day. Longer soaking times help the bread absorb the custard more deeply, enhancing texture and flavor, but going beyond 24 hours may cause the bread to become too mushy.
Can I make Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe ahead for a party?
Yes, it’s perfect for making ahead. Prepare and soak the pudding the day before your event, then bake it fresh right before serving. This way, you minimize day-of prep and still serve it warm and delicious.
Final Thoughts
If there is one dessert to cozy up with on chilly evenings or to bring extra joy to your holiday gatherings, it’s this Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe. Simple, comforting, and packed with festive flavors, it will quickly become a treasured favorite. I hope you make it soon and enjoy every warm bite!
Print
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes (including minimum 1 hour soak time)
- Yield: 6 to 6 servings
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Eggnog Bread Pudding is a cozy and festive dessert perfect for the holiday season. Made with cinnamon raisin bread soaked in a rich mixture of full-fat eggnog and eggs, this classic baked pudding is golden, puffed, and deliciously comforting. The custardy texture paired with warm spices makes it an irresistible treat to serve warm after a cozy dinner or during a holiday brunch.
Ingredients
Bread
- 6 cups (250g) cinnamon raisin bread, cubed (about 6 to 9 slices)
Custard
- 2 cups (500ml) full-fat eggnog
- 4 large eggs
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Place the cubed cinnamon raisin bread in a buttered 8-inch square ceramic or glass baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the full-fat eggnog and the eggs until the mixture is fully combined and smooth.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the eggnog and egg mixture over the bread cubes in the baking dish. Gently stir to ensure all the bread pieces are evenly coated with the custard.
- Refrigerate to Soak: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour, and up to 1 day, allowing the bread to soak up the custard fully.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, remove the pudding from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake the Pudding: Bake the bread pudding for about 35 to 45 minutes, or until it is golden brown, puffed up, and a thin knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Rest and Serve: Let the bread pudding stand for 15 minutes after baking. Serve warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use cinnamon raisin bread for the classic holiday flavor; other sweet breads can be substituted if desired.
- Full-fat eggnog gives the pudding a rich, creamy texture; lower fat versions can be used but will affect richness.
- Soaking the bread overnight improves custard absorption and enhances flavor.
- Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce or a dusting of powdered sugar for extra indulgence.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently before serving.
