CHRISTMAS EGGNOG BREAD

Looking to add a festive touch to your holiday baking routine? Look no further than this Christmas Eggnog Bread recipe. Elevate your seasonal treats with the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog in a delightful bread form that will surely impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Christmas Eggnog Bread

– Festive Flavor: Infuses the traditional taste of eggnog into a delicious bread.
– Perfect for Holidays: Ideal for Christmas gatherings and seasonal celebrations.
– Aromatic Ingredients: The blend of pecans, candied fruit, and eggnog creates a delightful aroma.
– Simple and Satisfying: Easy-to-follow recipe with ingredients available in most pantries.

Ingredients

– All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups): Ensure to sift before measuring for accurate results.
– Baking Powder (2 teaspoons): Provides the necessary lift for the bread.
– Salt (1 teaspoon): Balances the sweetness of the eggnog and sugar.
– Sugar (3/4 cup): Adds sweetness to the bread.
– Pecans (1/2 cup): Chopped for a crunchy texture.
– Mixed Candied Fruit (1 cup): Enhances the fruity flavor profile.
– Eggs (2): Beaten to bind the ingredients together.
– Eggnog (1 cup): Provides the characteristic eggnog flavor.
– Melted Butter (1/4 cup): Adds richness to the bread.

How to Make Christmas Eggnog Bread

– Step 1: Preparing the Dry Ingredients: Sift together flour, baking powder, salt, and sugar. Stir in pecans and fruit.

– Step 2: Mixing the Wet Ingredients: Combine beaten eggs, eggnog, and melted butter.

– Step 3: Combining Ingredients: Add the egg mixture to the dry ingredients, mixing just until moistened.

– Step 4: Baking: Pour the batter into a greased and floured loaf pan. Bake at 350°F for about 1 1/4 hours.

– Step 5: Glazing (Optional): If desired, glaze the bread and garnish it with cherries.

Storage Options

Properly store your Christmas Eggnog Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat slices in a toaster or microwave for a warm treat.

Variations and Substitutions

– Spice it Up: Add a dash of nutmeg or cinnamon for a spiced version.
– Nut-Free Option: Replace pecans with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
– Dried Fruit Swap: Substitute mixed candied fruit with dried cranberries or raisins.
– Healthier Twist: Use whole wheat flour for a nuttier flavor and added nutrition.

What to Serve With Christmas Eggnog Bread

– Hot Cocoa: Pair the bread with a cozy mug of hot cocoa for a comforting treat.
– Whipped Cream: Serve a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence.
– Fruit Compote: Accompany the bread with a side of fruit compote for a fresh contrast.
– Eggnog Latte: Enjoy a festive beverage alongside the bread for a complete holiday experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

– Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe ? : Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this recipe.

– Can I omit the candied fruit ? : Feel free to omit the candied fruit or replace it with dried fruit of your choice.

– How can I make this bread more moist ? : Increase the amount of eggnog slightly for a moister texture.

– Can I add a glaze to the bread ?: Yes, a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and eggnog can enhance the bread’s sweetness.

Indulge in the warm, fragrant aroma of freshly baked Christmas Eggnog Bread that exudes the nostalgic flavors of the holiday season. With each slice, savor the delicate sweetness of eggnog intertwined with the nutty crunch of pecans and the burst of flavor from the candied fruit. This bread is sure to become a cherished addition to your festive baking traditions.