The air is filled with the sweet aroma of spiced eggnog and warm bread as I pull a golden-brown dish from the oven. This Decadent Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe transforms simple ingredients into a holiday feast for the senses, making it an instant classic for festive gatherings. With its buttery challah or brioche base, this dish offers a delightful hug of warmth that just begs to be shared. One of the best perks? You can make it ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy precious moments with loved ones rather than being stuck in the kitchen. Plus, the luscious rum-butter syrup drizzled over each slice adds just the right touch of indulgence to elevate your dessert game. So, are you ready to create your new holiday tradition?
Why is this Eggnog Bread Pudding Special?
Richness: This Eggnog Bread Pudding is a game-changer for your holiday desserts, offering a creamy, custard-like texture that melts in your mouth.
Make-Ahead Magic: Perfect for busy bakers, it can be prepared the night before, letting you savor time with your guests instead of being trapped in the kitchen.
Versatile Ingredients: Use challah or brioche for an impressive twist—if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try substituting with stale French bread?
Indulgent Topping: Drizzle a warm rum-butter syrup made with maple syrup over each slice for that extra layer of delight, making this a must-try dessert.
Crowd-Pleasing Comfort Food: Serve it for brunch or as a festive finale at dinner, and watch it disappear in no time—it’s ideal for family gatherings!
Classic Twist: Take inspiration from other comfort treats like Covered Banana Pudding or Hawaiian Banana Bread for more delicious flavors that everyone will adore!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients
For the Pudding
• Challah/Brioche Bread – This rich base adds a buttery flavor; stale French bread can be used if needed.
• Golden Raisins – These sweet morsels enhance texture; you can skip them if you prefer.
• Eggnog – Infuses the pudding with festive flavor; using homemade eggnog will elevate your dish.
• Milk – Balances the custard’s richness perfectly.
• Eggs – Essential for creating that beautiful custard structure.
• Sugar – Sweetens each bite to perfection.
• Rum (optional) – Adds complexity and flavor; feel free to leave it out for a non-alcoholic treat.
• Vanilla Extract – Deepens the flavor profile beautifully.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Salt – The warm spices will make your kitchen smell like the holidays!
For the Topping
• Turbinado Sugar – Sprinkles a delightful crunch on top.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg – Perfectly complement the festive theme.
For the Rum-Butter Syrup
• Maple Syrup – Adds a unique sweetness to your sauce.
• Butter – Enhances richness for the syrup.
• Rum (optional) – Again, this is for that wonderful punch of flavor!
This Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe is designed to be memorable and indulgent, making your holidays even sweeter!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Bread
Begin by cubing your challah or brioche bread into 1-inch pieces and set them aside in a large mixing bowl. This rich foundation is essential for the Eggnog Bread Pudding, as it will absorb the custard mixture beautifully. If your bread is fresh, let it sit out for a bit to dry—day-old bread is even better!
Step 2: Make Custard
In a separate large bowl, whisk together 2 cups of eggnog, 1 cup of milk, 4 beaten eggs, 3/4 cup sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and a pinch each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. Aim for a smooth consistency with no lumps as you mix. This creamy custard base will infuse every bite of your Eggnog Bread Pudding with festive flavor.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Gently fold the cubed bread into the custard mixture, along with 1/2 cup of golden raisins if desired. Ensure all the bread pieces are well-coated, absorbing the rich custard evenly. For the best results, allow this mixture to soak for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight in the refrigerator, to deepen flavor and texture.
Step 4: Preheat Oven
While your bread pudding mixture is soaking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Your oven should be fully heated before you place the pudding inside, allowing for even baking. Prepare a greased 9×13 inch baking dish to ensure your Eggnog Bread Pudding comes out effortlessly without sticking.
Step 5: Bake
Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with a sprinkle of turbinado sugar along with a dash of cinnamon and nutmeg for added flavor and a delightful crunch. Place in the oven and bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and a knife inserted in the middle comes out clean.
Step 6: Make Syrup
While the pudding bakes, prepare the luscious rum-butter syrup by melting 1/2 cup of butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in 1 cup of maple syrup and 1-2 tablespoons of rum, if using. Mix well until combined and heated through, then set aside to keep warm. This syrup will beautifully drizzle over your finished Eggnog Bread Pudding.
Step 7: Serve
Once baked, let the Eggnog Bread Pudding cool slightly before slicing into squares. Drizzle each serving with the warm rum-butter syrup to add a decadently sweet finish. This delightful dessert is perfect for sharing with family and friends, making your holiday gatherings even warmer and more festive.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe components are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy holiday mornings! You can cube the challah or brioche bread and prepare the custard mixture (using eggnog, milk, eggs, sugar, and spices) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply combine the two and let it soak overnight in the refrigerator to ensure every bite is richly flavored. To maintain quality, be sure to cover the mixture tightly to prevent drying out. When ready to bake, preheat your oven and pour it into a greased dish, then bake for about 45-50 minutes. This simple strategy allows you to enjoy your festivities without fussing in the kitchen!
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Bread Pudding
Room Temperature: Allow the pudding to cool completely at room temperature before storing. It can sit out for up to 2 hours before needing refrigeration.
Fridge: Store leftover eggnog bread pudding in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of the bread pudding in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge when ready to enjoy.
Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed pudding in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through, drizzling with a little extra rum-butter syrup for added indulgence.
What to Serve with Decadent Eggnog Bread Pudding
Indulge in the warm comforts of a holiday meal that perfectly complements this rich, spiced dessert.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that beautifully balances the pudding’s richness. It’s the perfect finishing touch!
Spiced Hot Chocolate: Delight in a cup of velvety hot chocolate infused with cinnamon and nutmeg for a cozy drink that mirrors the festive flavors of your dessert.
Cranberry Sauce: A tart, homemade cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness, bringing a refreshing contrast that brightens the entire meal.
Maple-Glazed Carrots: Sweet maple-glazed carrots add a deliciously sweet and savory pairing, bringing a bit of crunch to the table alongside your creamy pudding.
Gingerbread Cookies: Offering a delightful crunch and warm spices, these cookies are a nostalgic nod to the season that pairs seamlessly with the flavors of eggnog.
Nutmeg Infused Coffee: For a caffeine kick, a cup of nutmeg-infused coffee enhances the cozy ambiance of any holiday gathering while echoing the pudding’s warm spices.
Toasted Pecans: These add a delightful crunch and nuttiness, elevating the texture of your dessert while complementing its flavors perfectly.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: Top your pudding with a scoop of creamy vanilla bean ice cream for an extra indulgent treat that melts beautifully over the warm bread pudding.
Expert Tips for Eggnog Bread Pudding
Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread is key for your Eggnog Bread Pudding; fresh bread may dissolve in the custard, losing the desired texture.
Soak Time Matters: Allow the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes or overnight for optimal flavor absorption and a richer custard.
Adjust for Thickness: If your custard mixture looks too thick, add a splash more milk to ensure everything blends smoothly; this will enhance the final result.
Check for Doneness: Always test the pudding with a clean knife; if it comes out dirty, it needs more time in the oven.
Experiment with Toppings: Don’t shy away from adding chocolate chips or alternative spices; customizing your Eggnog Bread Pudding can create a delightful twist!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists to customize your eggnog bread pudding to suit your taste and mood!
Chocolate Twist: Add dark chocolate chips instead of golden raisins for a rich, indulgent flavor that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Blend the melted chocolate into the custard for an even chocolatey experience.
Nutty Flavor: Toss in a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and warmth. The nuts will bring a delightful texture contrast and a toasty aroma, enhancing the overall experience.
Fruit Medley: Mix in cranberries or chopped apples to the pudding for a fruit-forward twist. The tartness of cranberries or the sweetness of apples will create a perfectly balanced dessert, elevating it to holiday perfection.
Spiced Version: Experiment with different spices such as cardamom or ginger to make this dish even more aromatic. The exotic flavors will give your eggnog bread pudding a unique touch that will have everyone guessing your secret ingredient.
Flavorful Bread: Swap out challah or brioche for panettone or stollen to introduce a whole new dimension of flavor. The dried fruit and spices in these specialty breads will add character to your pudding.
Dairy-Free Delight: Use almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk and eggnog for a dairy-free option that doesn’t compromise on flavor. This twist allows everyone to enjoy the festive spirit.
Heated Up: For those who love a kick, add a splash of bourbon or spiced rum directly into the pudding mixture. This will elevate the flavor profile and create an adult version of this classic dessert.
Gourmet Topping: Drizzle your eggnog bread pudding with a warm salted caramel sauce instead of rum-butter syrup for a decadently sweet twist. The combination of creaminess from the pudding and the saltiness of caramel creates a harmonious balance that’s hard to resist.
With these variations, your eggnog bread pudding becomes a canvas for creativity, inviting you to share more precious memories and delightful flavors at your festive gatherings! If you’re looking for more inspiration, be sure to check out my delicious Zucchini Heaven Bread or warm up with my decadent Banana Pudding Tiramisu for even more holiday cheer!
Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs
What type of bread works best for eggnog bread pudding?
For the best results, I recommend using challah or brioche as they create a rich and buttery base. However, stale French bread is an excellent substitute if you’re in a pinch—just make sure it’s not too fresh, as it may dissolve into the custard.
How should I store leftover eggnog bread pudding?
Once you’ve enjoyed your delicious creation, allow the pudding to cool completely at room temperature (no more than 2 hours). Then, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to indulge again, simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Can I freeze eggnog bread pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze, slice the bread pudding into portions and store them in a tightly sealed container or freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to zap some warmth into those cozy flavors.
What should I do if my custard mixture seems too thick?
If your custard mixture appears thicker than you’d like, that’s no problem! Simply add a splash more milk to the mixture, whisk it together, and ensure it reaches a smooth consistency before pouring over the bread. This little adjustment will help balance the richness, enhancing your eggnog bread pudding.
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Definitely! If you are making this eggnog bread pudding for guests, consider any potential allergies they may have. While the recipe includes eggs, milk, and optional rum, you can also easily make it non-alcoholic by omitting the rum. For a dairy-free version, try substituting non-dairy milk and egg replacements to ensure everyone can enjoy this festive delight.
How long can I safely keep the eggnog bread pudding in the fridge?
You can safely store your eggnog bread pudding in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container to retain its flavors and freshness. Before serving, reheat individual servings to enjoy that cozy warmth again!
Cozy Up with This Irresistible Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by cubing your challah or brioche bread into 1-inch pieces and set them aside in a large mixing bowl.
- In a separate large bowl, whisk together eggnog, milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch each of cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
- Gently fold the cubed bread into the custard mixture, along with golden raisins if desired. Let this mixture soak for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- Pour the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top with turbinado sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Bake for approximately 45-50 minutes, until the top is golden and a knife comes out clean.
- While baking, prepare the rum-butter syrup by melting butter in a saucepan, stirring in maple syrup and rum until combined.
- Once baked, let cool slightly before slicing, and drizzle each serving with warm rum-butter syrup.