Eggnog Bread Pudding

Eggnog Bread Pudding is a festive twist on a classic dessert, featuring rich brioche or challah soaked in a spiced eggnog custard and baked until golden. Topped with a creamy eggnog sauce and optional garnishes like powdered sugar or pomegranate seeds, this dessert is perfect for the holiday season.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect for the Holidays – A festive dessert that captures the warm flavors of eggnog.
• Easy to Make – Simple steps and minimal ingredients make this a stress-free dessert.
• Rich & Creamy Texture – Soft, custardy bread pudding with a luscious sauce.
• Versatile – Can be served warm or cold and customized with different toppings.
• Great for Leftover Bread – An excellent way to use up day-old brioche or challah.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Bread Pudding:

• 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (cubed, about 6 cups)
• 2 cups eggnog
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• ¼ tsp nutmeg
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter (melted)

For the Eggnog Sauce:

• 1 cup eggnog
• ¼ cup heavy cream
• ¼ cup granulated sugar
• 1 tbsp cornstarch (mixed with 2 tbsp water)
• ½ tsp vanilla extract
• Pinch of nutmeg

Optional Garnish:

• Powdered sugar
• Pomegranate seeds
• Whipped cream

Directions

1. Preheat Oven – Set oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
2. Prepare Bread Mixture – Place the cubed bread in the greased baking dish.
3. Make Custard – In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
4. Soak the Bread – Pour the custard over the bread cubes, pressing down slightly so they absorb the liquid. Let sit for 15 minutes.
5. Bake – Drizzle melted butter over the top and bake for 35-40 minutes until golden brown and set.
6. Make the Eggnog Sauce – In a saucepan over medium heat, combine eggnog, heavy cream, and sugar. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until thickened, stirring continuously. Remove from heat and add vanilla and nutmeg.
7. Serve & Enjoy – Drizzle the warm eggnog sauce over the bread pudding and garnish with powdered sugar and pomegranate seeds if desired.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Variations

• Bourbon Twist – Add a splash of bourbon to the custard or sauce for a deeper flavor.
• Chocolate Chips – Sprinkle chocolate chips between the bread cubes for a sweet surprise.
• Nutty Crunch – Add chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Caramel Drizzle – Replace the eggnog sauce with a rich caramel drizzle.
• Raisin Addition – Mix in raisins or dried cranberries for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooled bread pudding tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm individual portions in the microwave for 20-30 seconds or reheat in a 300°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

FAQs

Can I make Eggnog Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the bread pudding a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

Can I use regular bread instead of brioche or challah?

Yes, but brioche and challah provide the best texture. If using regular bread, opt for a sturdy type like French bread.

How do I prevent the bread pudding from becoming soggy?

Use slightly stale bread, and do not oversaturate it with custard. Letting it sit for 15 minutes before baking helps absorption.

Can I use store-bought eggnog?

Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly, but homemade eggnog will enhance the flavor.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done?

It should be golden brown on top and set in the center. A knife inserted should come out clean or with slight moisture but no raw custard.

Can I skip the eggnog sauce?

Yes, but it adds an extra layer of flavor. You can substitute it with caramel, bourbon sauce, or vanilla glaze.

What can I serve with Eggnog Bread Pudding?

Whipped cream, vanilla ice cream, or fresh berries make great accompaniments.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes, substitute eggnog with a dairy-free alternative and use coconut cream instead of heavy cream.

What other spices can I add?

Try adding cloves, cardamom, or allspice for extra warmth.

Is this dessert served warm or cold?

It is best served warm, but it can also be enjoyed chilled.

Conclusion

Eggnog Bread Pudding is the perfect holiday dessert, combining the rich, spiced flavors of eggnog with a soft, custardy texture. Whether served warm with eggnog sauce or chilled with a dusting of powdered sugar, this dessert is a festive crowd-pleaser that is easy to prepare and absolutely delicious.