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Introduction
Indulge in the festive spirit with our delectable Christmas Eggnog Bread! This delightful recipe is a perfect blend of rich flavors, combining the traditional essence of eggnog with the warmth of holiday spices. Whether you’re hosting a holiday brunch or looking for a thoughtful homemade gift, this recipe promises to be a showstopper.
History of Christmas Eggnog Bread
The roots of this delightful treat trace back to early holiday traditions, where eggnog was a cherished beverage enjoyed during festive gatherings. The idea of incorporating this creamy concoction into a bread recipe adds a unique twist, marrying the comforting taste of eggnog with the texture of a moist, tender loaf. This fusion embodies the spirit of the season, creating a treat that pays homage to the past while embracing modern culinary creativity.
Ingredients
For the Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 3/4 cup eggnog
- 1/4 cup whole milk
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons eggnog
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of ground nutmeg
Instructions
1. Preparing the Batter
In a large mixing bowl, combine the all-purpose flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, ground nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. In a separate bowl, whisk together the softened unsalted butter, eggnog, whole milk, eggs, and vanilla extract until well combined. Gradually add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, stirring gently until a smooth batter forms.
2. Filling the Pan
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a standard-sized loaf pan with butter or cooking spray. Pour the prepared batter into the pan, ensuring an even distribution.
3. Baking to Perfection
Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. The golden-brown hue and enticing aroma will signal that your Christmas Eggnog Bread is ready to delight your taste buds.
4. Creating the Glaze
While the bread is cooling, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, vanilla extract, and a pinch of ground nutmeg in a bowl. Drizzle this velvety glaze over the cooled bread, adding an extra layer of sweetness and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Slice the Christmas Eggnog Bread into thick, inviting slices, and serve it alongside a steaming cup of coffee or tea. The bread’s moist texture and the luscious glaze make it an irresistible treat for holiday gatherings, cozy mornings, or thoughtful gift-giving.
Additional Tips
- For an extra festive touch, sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top of the glaze.
- Experiment with flavored eggnogs like cinnamon or vanilla for a personalized twist.
- Store any leftover bread in an airtight container to maintain its freshness.
Conclusion
Our Christmas Eggnog Bread recipe is a celebration of holiday flavors, combining tradition with innovation. This delightful treat is not only a feast for the taste buds but also a visual delight, making it the perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. Elevate your festive season with this irresistible recipe that captures the essence of joy and togetherness.