Name: Irresistible Eggnog Bread Pudding for Holiday Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 55 min
Total time: 100 min
Ingredients: 8 cups Stale Challah or Brioche Bread (Cut into 1-inch pieces); 4 cups Eggnog (At room temperature); 6 large Eggs (At room temperature); 0.5 cup White Granulated Sugar (Balances the spices); 2 tablespoons Vanilla Extract (Enriches the flavor); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon (A staple spice); 0.5 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (Classic holiday flavor); 0.5 teaspoon Salt (Enhances sweetness)

The unmistakable aroma of nutmeg and cinnamon wafts through my kitchen, instantly transporting me to memories of cozy holiday gatherings. This isn’t just any dessert; it’s my go-to Eggnog Bread Pudding, a harmonious blend of warm spices and rich custard that delights every palate. Perfect for those chilly Thanksgiving mornings or festive Christmas brunches, this dish is not only a crowd-pleaser but also a breeze to whip up—in just 15 minutes, you can have it ready to bake. Using simple ingredients that are often on hand, this vegetarian-friendly treat offers both a comforting indulgence for the holidays and a delicious way to elevate leftover bread. Isn’t it time we made room for this delightful dessert on our holiday tables?

Why is Eggnog Bread Pudding a Must-Try?

Rich, Holiday Flavors: This dessert captures the essence of the season with every bite, blending nutmeg, cinnamon, and eggnog into a warm, inviting treat.
Quick Prep Time: Spend more time with loved ones! With just 15 minutes of prep, you’ll have a delightful dish ready to bake.
Crowd-Pleasing and Comforting: Serve this enchanting pudding at your holiday brunches and watch guests rave about the flavors!
Versatile Variations: Feel free to customize by swapping in your favorite breads or adding sweet extras like chocolate chips for an elevated twist. Perfect alongside an indulgent Spiced Apple Bread as a festive spread!
Make-Ahead Friendly: Prep it the night before to take the stress out of busy mornings—you can bake it fresh and hot to serve whenever you’re ready.

Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Bread Base

Stale Challah or Brioche Bread – Cut into 1-inch pieces; this provides the perfect structure and absorbs the custard beautifully, ensuring a deliciously soft texture.

For the Custard

Eggnog – At room temperature; acts as the key liquid, infusing rich flavor and moisture—feel free to use homemade or non-dairy versions!
Eggs – Large, at room temperature; they bind the pudding and add a wonderful richness.
White Granulated Sugar – 1/2 cup (100g); balances the spices while adding delightful sweetness.
Vanilla Extract – 2 tablespoons; enriches the flavor profile with warm undertones.
Ground Cinnamon – 1/2 teaspoon; a staple spice that brings warmth and nostalgia to your eggnog bread pudding.
Ground Nutmeg – 1/2 teaspoon; amplifies the classic holiday flavor that makes this dessert unforgettable.
Salt – 1/2 teaspoon; enhances and balances the sweetness of the custard.

Note: Each ingredient plays a vital role in creating this delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding that’s just perfect for your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (180°C). While the oven heats, take a 13×9 inch baking dish and grease it generously with butter or cooking spray. This ensures that your Eggnog Bread Pudding will come out beautifully and not stick to the sides, creating a perfect dessert experience.

Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the white granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Whisk these together until well blended. Next, crack in the six large eggs, one at a time, and continue whisking. Gradually pour in the room temperature eggnog, stirring until you achieve a smooth custard mixture that emphasizes those delightful holiday flavors.

Step 3: Assemble the Pudding
Take your prepared baking dish and scatter the 1-inch pieces of stale challah or brioche bread evenly across the bottom. Gently pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are all covered. Use a spatula or your hands to lightly toss the bread, making sure each piece is coated in the rich custard, enhancing the texture of the eggnog bread pudding.

Step 4: Allow to Rest
Once the eggnog bread pudding is assembled, press the bread down lightly to help it absorb the custard. Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes. This resting period allows the bread to fully soak up the custard, resulting in a soft, custardy texture when baked.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection
After the resting period, uncover the dish and place it in the preheated oven. Bake your Eggnog Bread Pudding for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are set. You can check for doneness by inserting a clean knife into the center; it should come out clean when the pudding is perfectly baked.

Step 6: Cool and Serve
Once baked, remove the eggnog bread pudding from the oven, and allow it to cool for 20-30 minutes. This resting time allows the dessert to set and makes it easier to slice. Before serving, dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness and garnish with your choice of eggnog sauce, vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream for an indulgent holiday treat!

What to Serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding?

There’s nothing quite like gathering around the table with loved ones, enjoying a feast filled with flavors that evoke warmth and joy.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool creaminess offers a delightful contrast to the warm, spiced pudding, enhancing its rich flavors with every spoonful.
Spiced Apple Sauce: A hint of cinnamon and nutmeg in the apple sauce complements the bread pudding’s spices, adding a sweet, fruity element.
Coffee or Hot Cocoa: Cozy beverages elevate the experience, allowing the drink’s warmth to match perfectly with the sweetness of the dessert.
Classic Whipped Cream: Light and airy, adding a dollop lets the pudding’s flavors shine while providing a luxurious mouthfeel.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: The sweet, earthy flavor of maple syrup adds depth and pairs beautifully with the holiday spices. It’s a delightful surprise!
Cranberry Salad: The tartness balances the sweetness of the pudding, adding a refreshing contrast and a pop of color to your plate.
Nutmeg-Spiced Hot Toddy: For the adults, this warming cocktail builds upon the dessert’s spices, creating a cozy, festive pairing.
Gingerbread Cookies: Enjoying a fruity or spicy cookie alongside your eggnog bread pudding adds texture and a holiday crunch that everyone will love.

Make Ahead Options

These delicious Eggnog Bread Pudding are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time, especially during the hectic holiday season! You can assemble the custard and bread mixture up to 24 hours in advance by following the instructions until the resting period. Simply cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, take it out of the fridge and let it rest for 30 minutes to ensure even cooking. Bake as directed and enjoy this delightful dessert fresh from the oven, just as comforting and flavorful as if made that same day!

Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Stale Bread is Best: Using stale bread enhances texture, allowing it to absorb the custard better. If fresh, dry it in the oven for 10-14 minutes first.
Prep Ahead: Prepare the eggnog bread pudding the night before. Just cover it in the fridge, and it will be ready to bake the next morning, saving you precious time.
Custard Consistency Check: Ensure your custard mixture is well-blended—there should be no visible egg or sugar granules, which helps create a smooth Eggnog Bread Pudding.
Doneness Test: A clean knife inserted in the center indicates the pudding is ready. If it comes out clean, you’re good to go. Otherwise, bake a little longer.
Garnish Creatively: Consider topping your eggnog bread pudding with homemade eggnog sauce, vanilla sauce, or fresh fruit to elevate the festive presentation!

How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days, ensuring they remain fresh and flavorful for your next indulgence.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the eggnog bread pudding for up to 3 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quick fix!

Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations

Let your creativity shine with these delightful twists on classic eggnog bread pudding, making it uniquely yours!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut or almond milk eggnog for a creamy, non-dairy alternative that retains all the festive flavors.
Gluten-Free: Substitute with gluten-free bread options like almond flour bread or gluten-free challah for a delicious, inclusive dessert.
Extra Spices: Boost the warmth by adding cloves or allspice to the custard mixture—more aromatic goodness awaits!
Nutty Addition: Toss in some chopped pecans or walnuts to add a delightful crunch to the soft custard.
Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried cranberries or fresh blueberries for a tart contrast that enhances the sweetness of the pudding.
Chocolate Lover’s Delight: Mix in semi-sweet or dark chocolate chips for a rich, indulgent take that chocolate aficionados will adore.
Panettone Base: Swap out traditional bread for panettone, adding a delightful Italian flair with hints of citrus and raisin.
Serve with Flair: Elevate this dish alongside a decadent drizzle of homemade eggnog sauce or scoop of velvety ice cream, or even a slice of Spiced Apple Bread for a festive spread!

Feel free to mix and match these variations to suit your taste and create a personalized holiday treat everyone will love!

Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best bread for my Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Using stale challah or brioche bread is ideal as it has a soft texture that absorbs the custard wonderfully. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out by cutting it into cubes and baking them in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for about 10-14 minutes until slightly crispy but not browned.

How should I store leftovers of my Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing to retain moisture. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil, ensuring no air pockets for best preservation.

Can I freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding?
Absolutely! To successfully freeze your Eggnog Bread Pudding, allow it to cool completely after baking. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. This will help protect it from freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, gradually thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if my Eggnog Bread Pudding doesn’t set properly?
If your pudding isn’t setting, it may need a bit more time in the oven. Check doneness by inserting a clean knife in the center; it should come out clean when fully baked. If it’s still too wet, place it back in the oven for another 5-10 minutes, but keep an eye on it to prevent over-baking.

Can I make Eggnog Bread Pudding ahead of time?
Yes! To save time, prepare the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. The next day, you can bake it straight from the fridge. This allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a richer flavor and smoother texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for Eggnog Bread Pudding?
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but if you have dietary restrictions, such as lactose intolerance, feel free to substitute eggnog with a non-dairy version. Additionally, always ensure that the bread used is free from allergens if you’re serving guests with specific dietary needs.