Eggnog Bread Pudding

Eggnog Bread Pudding

There’s something magical about the aroma of eggnog wafting through the house, especially during the cooler months when the world outside is wrapped in a blanket of snow. It always brings me back to those cozy family gatherings filled with laughter, stories, and a dessert that was a warm hug in a dish. Eggnog bread pudding has become a timeless favorite in our home. The creamy custard soaking into fluffy bread is just the right balance of festive and comforting, making every bite feel like a cherished memory.

Why This Eggnog Bread Pudding Means So Much

Eggnog bread pudding is more than just a dessert in our family; it is a celebration of tradition, joy, and togetherness. The first time I made it, I could hardly wait for it to come out of the oven. The way the warm vanilla and spices danced together was enough to stir nostalgia in my heart. Each spoonful reminded me of family dinners during the holidays when laughter filled the air, and we gathered around the table, sharing stories and our favorite recipes. This dish has a special place at our brunches, and every holiday season, it finds its way to my kitchen once again.

The Simple Process Behind It

“Every time I stir this pot, it smells just like Sunday at home.”

Making this eggnog bread pudding is like composing a symphony of flavors and textures. I love the sound of the eggs cracking and the gentle bubbling of the custard as it comes together. The way the bread softens as the creamy mixture soaks into it is a comforting reminder that the simplest ingredients can create something truly special. When I whisk the eggnog with the spices, I can already envision the smiling faces waiting at the table, eager for their first taste of this delightful dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create your own eggnog bread pudding, gather the following 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
  • whipped cream

Each of these ingredients plays a crucial role in crafting the rich, comforting flavor of this dish. The day-old bread adds a delightful texture that soaks up the custard perfectly, while the spices bring warmth and festivity. As you prepare, remember to enjoy the process. A little extra vanilla gives it that cozy aroma you will love.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prepare the Bread and Custard

Start by gathering your cubed bread, and place it in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until everything is well combined. Pour the custard over the bread cubes, ensuring that each piece is nicely coated. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the flavors and soften. Stir occasionally, and take a moment to breathe in the delicious aromas rising from the bowl.

2. Assemble the Bread Pudding

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with the melted butter. Once your bread is well-soaked, gently fold it into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Ensure there are no dry spots, as every bite should be infused with that sweet, creamy custard. As you do this, get ready for the smells of cinnamon and nutmeg to envelop your kitchen, creating a warmth that invites everyone inside.

3. Bake the Bread Pudding

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45 to 55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. You want to wait for the edges to turn golden and the custard to set just right. As it bakes, take a moment to enjoy the delightful scent that fills your space—it’s the kind of aroma that makes the heart feel full.

4. Cool and Serve

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for about 10 to 15 minutes. This waiting period allows the pudding to settle and makes it easier to cut into squares. When you’re ready to serve, dish out generous portions onto plates, adding a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of caramel sauce if you like. Breathe in the sweetness as you bring the warm servings to the table, where voices mingle and laughter creates an atmosphere of love.

Serving Eggnog Bread Pudding With Family Warmth

This dish is best enjoyed surrounded by loved ones. Imagine the scene: a cozy dining room filled with festive decorations, the warmth of the fireplace crackling in the background, and the laughter of children playing nearby. Setting a dish of eggnog bread pudding in the center of the table creates a sense of togetherness. As each person serves themselves a piece, it becomes a shared experience filled with connection.

Serving it warm, perhaps with a side of fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, adds to the comfort of the moment. We often find ourselves savoring stories from the week, recounting fond memories, or simply enjoying the silence together with a sweetness that lingers in every bite.

Storing Eggnog Bread Pudding for Tomorrow

If you have leftovers or want to make this dish ahead of time, storing it is easy. Let the pudding cool completely after baking, then cover it with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for about three to four days. The next day, when you reheat it, you will find that the flavors have melded even further, deepening the comfort and joy it brings. Simply warm individual portions in the microwave or in a preheated oven until heated through.

Amelia’s Kitchen Notes

• Choosing the Bread: Brioche or challah works wonderfully because they are rich and absorbent, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand. Even a good sourdough can give it an interesting twist that might surprise you.
• Extra Eggnog Flavor: If you love eggnog, consider adding a splash more to the custard or adjusting the spices to your liking with a bit of ginger or allspice.
• Cleanup Tip: To make your cleanup easier, soak any mixing bowls or baking pans in warm, soapy water right after use. This way, any residue will loosen up quickly and make washing them simpler.
• Add-Ins: Consider folding in chocolate chips, dried fruit, or nuts for additional texture and flavor.
• Serving Ideas: Try serving the bread pudding with a cup of spiced tea or a rich hot chocolate to create the perfect winter night.

Family Variations on Eggnog Bread Pudding

One of the joys of home cooking is making a recipe your own. In our family, we love to mix things up with eggnog bread pudding. Sometimes, we add some chopped pecans for crunch, or even cranberries for that touch of tartness that balances out the sweetness. During Christmas, a swirl of cranberry compote often finds its way into the custard. Each variation brings its own charm to the dish, creating new traditions every year.

Sometimes, we also transform this dish into a breakfast treat by adding a bit more eggnog and serving it alongside crispy bacon or sausage. It feels like a fun twist on brunch that everyone loves. It reminds us that while traditions are revered, innovation and creativity bring new life to what we’ve known and loved.

FAQs About Eggnog Bread Pudding

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, and honestly, it might taste even better the next day once the flavors have settled and come together. Just store it in the fridge and reheat to enjoy!

What type of bread is best?
While brioche and challah are our favorites, any sturdy bread will do. Just make sure it’s a bit stale so it can hold up to the custard without falling apart.

Can I freeze leftovers?
You can freeze leftovers! Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or place them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat.

How do I know when it’s done baking?
You can tell it’s done when the top is golden and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean. If the bread is still jiggly, it needs more time in the oven.

What if I don’t have eggnog?
No worries! You can substitute with a mix of milk or cream with a splash of vanilla, nutmeg, and cinnamon. It won’t be exactly the same, but it will still be delicious.

A Final Thought

I hope this eggnog bread pudding brings a little warmth and inspiration to your kitchen, the same way it does in mine. There’s magic in the act of gathering around the table, sharing moments, and enjoying delicious food together. When you make this, know that you’re creating not just a dish but cherished memories. Here’s to many joyful times in your kitchen, filled with love, laughter, and lots of eggnog bread pudding.