Eggnog Bread Pudding: The Ultimate Festive Dessert
Turn day-old loaf into a lusciously spiced holiday treat that delights any gathering.
When the holiday season arrives, few desserts capture the warmth and nostalgia quite like eggnog bread pudding. Creamy custard, classic spices, and tender bread come together for a comforting treat that’s perfect for Christmas, New Year’s, or any festive occasion. This guide takes you step-by-step through crafting the perfect pudding and offers expert tips, variations, and answers to the most common questions about this beloved dessert.
Why You’ll Love Eggnog Bread Pudding
- Combines the rich, spiced flavors of traditional eggnog with the indulgence of classic bread pudding.
- Uses day-old bread, making it economical and helping to reduce food waste.
- Perfect for gatherings—feeds a crowd and can be prepared in advance.
- Versatile: adapt with your choice of add-ins, sauces, and breads.
What is Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Eggnog bread pudding is a baked custard dessert made from cubes of bread soaked in a mixture of eggnog, eggs, sugar, warm spices, and other flavorings. Baked until golden and set, the result is a creamy, soft, and deeply flavorful pudding that’s both nostalgic and novel—a delicious twist on a classic holiday drink.
Core Features
- Base: Cubed bread (such as challah, brioche, or French bread)
- Custard: A blend of eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and spices
- Optional: Rum or bourbon for festive flavor, dried fruits like raisins or cranberries
- Finish: Often served with a warm sauce—such as whiskey, rum, or vanilla sauce
Ingredients for the Best Eggnog Bread Pudding
| Ingredient | Role in Recipe | Tips/Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Day-old bread (challah, brioche, French bread) | Provides structure and soaks up custard | Use slightly stale bread for best texture |
| Eggnog | Main flavor; gives creamy richness | Substitute with milk & add spices if needed |
| Eggs | Sets the custard; adds richness | Large eggs work best |
| Sugar (granulated, brown) | Sweetens the pudding | Brown sugar for deeper flavor |
| Warm spices (cinnamon, nutmeg) | Add holiday aroma and taste | Grate nutmeg fresh for extra warmth |
| Vanilla extract | Enhances flavor complexity | Can substitute almond extract |
| Rum or bourbon | Optional, adds festive kick | Use for adults only |
| Raisins (optional) | Provide texture and extra sweetness | Add cranberries or omit |
| Butter (for greasing pan) | Prevents sticking; adds flavor | Can use nonstick spray |
Step-by-Step Directions to Prepare Eggnog Bread Pudding
Prep Time: 20 minutes | Bake Time: 45-55 minutes | Chill Time: 2-8 hours
- Prepare the Pan: Grease a 13-by-9-inch baking dish generously with butter.
- Add Bread & Fruit: Toss bread cubes and raisins (if using) together and spread evenly in the pan.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggnog, milk (optional), eggs, sugar, rum, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and nutmeg until well blended.
- Combine: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing the bread gently so all pieces are moistened.
- Chill: Cover the pan with wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to overnight. This soaking step ensures creamy, cohesive pudding.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 350°F. Uncover the pan and bake in the center rack for 45-55 minutes, until golden and set. The center should not jiggle when shaken lightly.
- Cool Slightly: Let pudding cool for 15–30 minutes before slicing for best texture.
Serving Suggestions and Add-Ons
- Top with Warm Whiskey or Rum Sauce: For extra decadence, drizzle each serving with homemade whiskey or rum sauce
- Dust with powdered sugar: For a touch of elegance and sweetness
- Add whipped cream: Freshly whipped cream pairs perfectly with the creamy custard
- Fresh berries or compote: Add festive color and tang
How to Make Warm Whiskey or Rum Sauce
This simple sauce elevates the pudding to restaurant quality:
- Combine brown sugar, cream, and butter in a saucepan and bring to a gentle boil.
- Whisk in whiskey or rum and vanilla after removing from heat.
- Let cool slightly before drizzling over warm pudding.
What others are reading
Tips & Tricks for Perfect Bread Pudding
- Use slightly stale bread: Fresh bread gets mushy; day-old holds shape and absorbs custard without losing texture.
- Soak thoroughly: Ensure every bread cube is moist—press down gently with a spatula if needed.
- Don’t rush chilling: At least 2 hours soaking in the fridge yields best results; overnight is ideal for busy schedules.
- Test for doneness: Insert a knife in the center; it should come out clean, and the middle should not wobble.
- Add-ins: Try chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even bits of chocolate for variety.
Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations
- Non-alcoholic: Leave out the rum or whiskey for a family-friendly pudding.
- No eggnog available? Mix whole milk or cream with extra vanilla and nutmeg. Add a splash of almond extract for depth.
- Fruit swaps: Trade raisins for dried cranberries, apricots, or chopped dates.
- Nutty crunch: Stir in toasted pecans, walnuts, or sliced almonds for texture.
- Individual servings: Divide the mixture between ramekins and bake for custom desserts.
Eggnog Bread Pudding FAQs
Q: Can I make eggnog bread pudding ahead?
A: Yes. The bread-soaking period (up to overnight) makes it an ideal prep-ahead dessert. Bake just before serving, or reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
Q: What kind of bread is best?
A: Rich, sturdy varieties like challah, brioche, or French bread are preferred because they absorb the custard without disintegrating. Avoid soft sandwich breads.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers?
A: Eggnog bread pudding freezes well for up to 2 months. Cool completely, wrap tightly, and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: How do I know when it’s done baking?
A: The top should be golden brown, edges pulled away from the pan, and the center set (no liquid jiggle or raw egg).
Q: Is fresh nutmeg necessary?
A: Freshly grated nutmeg adds more aroma, but pre-ground is fine for convenience.
Nutrition and Dietary Tips
- Eggnog bread pudding is rich and indulgent—smaller servings are satisfying.
- Lighten up by using low-fat eggnog or milk, and reducing sugar slightly.
- Make it dairy-free by using plant-based eggnog and a non-dairy buttery spread.
- Gluten-free bread can be substituted for those with gluten sensitivities.
Festive Presentation Ideas
- Serve on a platter dusted with powdered sugar and fresh cranberries.
- Garnish with sprigs of mint or orange zest for color contrast.
- Present individual puddings in ramekins for an elegant finish.
Expert Tips for Hosting and Holiday Baking
- Holiday flavor: Add a splash of orange liqueur or almond extract for a twist.
- Bake in advance: This pudding can be baked a day ahead and gently reheated before serving—cover with foil to prevent drying out.
- Pairings: Serve with mulled cider, spiced coffee, or a festive cocktail for complete holiday cheer.
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe Table
| Step | Action | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Grease pan, prep bread and optional raisins | Ensure even layer; use sturdy bread |
| 2 | Whisk custard ingredients together | Blend until smooth and well-combined |
| 3 | Pour custard over bread, press gently | Soak at least 2 hours, up to overnight |
| 4 | Bake at 350°F for 45–55 minutes | Top should be golden, edges set |
| 5 | Cool slightly, serve with sauce or toppings | Slice cleanly for best presentation |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I substitute milk for eggnog?
A: Yes, but increase vanilla and nutmeg to mimic eggnog’s flavor profile. Use whole milk or half-and-half for the richest texture.
Q: How many people does this recipe serve?
A: A 13-by-9-inch dish serves 10–12 depending on portion size. Individual ramekins yield slightly fewer, but are ideal for smaller gatherings.
Q: Why do I need to refrigerate before baking?
A: Soaking gives the bread time to absorb custard, ensuring a creamy interior and cohesive texture instead of dry spots.
Q: Can I microwave leftovers?
A: Yes, microwave individual servings for 30–60 seconds, but avoid overheating which can dry out the pudding.
Q: Is this dessert kid-friendly?
A: Absolutely. Skip or reduce the alcohol and add-ins as desired for a child-safe treat.
Conclusion: Bring Holiday Cheer to Your Table
Eggnog bread pudding is a festive fusion of creamy tradition and comforting nostalgia. Whether as the centerpiece of a holiday feast, a sweet brunch treat, or a soul-warming winter dessert, this showstopper delivers seasonal magic in every bite. Customize it to your taste, follow expert tips, and enjoy the heartwarming joy of sharing homemade holiday treats with family and friends.
References
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KbHHpN5b7r8
- https://thecrumbykitchen.com/eggnog-bread-pudding-warm-whiskey-sauce/
- https://www.chiselandfork.com/eggnog-bread-pudding/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a41468179/eggnog-bread-pudding-recipe/
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/meals-menus/g41576400/eggnog-recipes/
- https://www.eatyourbooks.com/library/recipes/3360859/eggnog-bread-pudding
- https://www.thepioneerwoman.com/food-cooking/recipes/a9415/bread-pudding-recipe/
Similar Articles
Read full bio of Sneha Tete
