Name: Eggnog Bread Pudding
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups stale bread, cubed; 4 large eggs; 2 cups eggnog; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tsp ground nutmeg; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 cup unsalted butter; 1/2 cup brown sugar

Jump to Recipe·Print Recipe

Get ready to dive into a dessert that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly evening. Eggnog Bread Pudding is a comforting classic that brings together the rich creaminess of eggnog with the warm spices you adore during the holidays. Each spoonful delivers a custardy, spiced experience that’s both nostalgic and oh so satisfying—a perfect way to celebrate special moments or simply treat yourself to something wonderful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Putting together this Eggnog Bread Pudding is a breeze because the ingredients are straightforward but incredibly important for nailing that delicious texture and flavor. Each plays a unique role, from custard richness to that perfect warming spice blend.

4 cups stale bread, cubed: Using stale bread helps absorb the custard perfectly without turning mushy.
4 large eggs: These bind everything together into that creamy pudding base.
2 cups eggnog: The star ingredient that adds festive creaminess and nostalgic flavor.
1/2 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the pudding evenly for that balanced taste.
1 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds that classic holiday spice with a warm, nutty aroma.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: A gentle spice that deepens the cozy flavor profile.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Brightens and rounds out the custard’s flavor.
1/2 cup unsalted butter: Provides richness and helps the brown sugar sauce melt perfectly.
1/2 cup brown sugar: Creates a luscious topping with a hint of caramel delight.

How to Make Eggnog Bread Pudding

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Dish

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a baking dish generously with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking and ensure the pudding browns evenly on the edges.

Step 2: Prep the Bread

Gather your cubed stale bread in a large bowl. Stale bread is key here because it soaks up the custard beautifully without turning into mush, giving you that just-right texture in the final pudding.

Step 3: Whisk the Custard Mix

In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, granulated sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until everything is smooth and well combined. This mixture is where the magic of Eggnog Bread Pudding truly begins, infusing each bite with rich flavor and creamy texture.

Step 4: Combine Bread and Custard

Pour the eggnog custard over the bread cubes and fold gently to coat every piece. Let it soak for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb as much of the custard as possible, which will ensure your pudding is delightfully moist inside.

Step 5: Bake to Golden Perfection

Spread the soaked bread mixture evenly in your prepared dish. Pop it into the oven and bake for around 45 to 50 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. The smell wafting through your kitchen will be enough to make you impatient for the first bite!

Step 6: Make the Brown Sugar Butter Sauce

While the pudding is baking, melt unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in brown sugar until it dissolves and combines into a shiny, smooth sauce that you’ll drizzle over the warm bread pudding right before serving. This sauce is pure indulgence and takes the dish to the next level.

How to Serve Eggnog Bread Pudding

Garnishes

To elevate your Eggnog Bread Pudding, consider sprinkling a pinch of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon on top. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream adds a cool contrast that pairs beautifully with the warm custard and rich sauce.

Side Dishes

This dessert shines on its own but can also be paired with fresh seasonal fruits like spiced pears or cranberry compote for a refreshing balance. A simple cup of spiced tea or coffee complements the rich flavors wonderfully.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve individual portions in small ramekins or mason jars, layered with extra custard sauce on the side for guests to drizzle as they like. Adding a sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts on top can also add a lovely crunch and nutty note.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftover Eggnog Bread Pudding, cover it tightly and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen as it chills, making it even more delicious when reheated gently.

Freezing

To freeze, wrap portions or the entire dish tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the pudding’s texture and flavor.

Reheating

Warm your Eggnog Bread Pudding in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. Avoid using a microwave if possible, as it can make the custard rubbery. Drizzle with more warm butter sauce before serving for an extra touch of comfort.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread?

Fresh bread can work, but it might soak up too much liquid and become soggy. If you only have fresh bread, try to dry it out a bit by toasting the cubes lightly before using them for the best results.

Is it necessary to use eggnog, or can I substitute it?

Eggnog is essential for that signature flavor in Eggnog Bread Pudding, but if you’re out, a creamy milk and heavy cream blend with a pinch of nutmeg and vanilla can work as a substitute in a pinch.

Can this recipe be made vegan or dairy-free?

With some tweaks like using plant-based milk eggnog alternatives, egg replacers, and vegan butter, you could create a vegan version. Keep in mind the texture and flavor will be slightly different but still delightful.

Can I add other mix-ins to the pudding?

Absolutely! Chopped nuts, dried fruits, or even chocolate chips make fantastic additions. Just fold them in when mixing the bread and custard for an extra burst of texture and flavor.

How do I know when the bread pudding is done baking?

The top should be golden brown and the custard set but still slightly wobbly in the center. A knife or toothpick inserted should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs but no liquid custard.

Final Thoughts

Eggnog Bread Pudding is one of those special desserts that feels like a gift to yourself and your loved ones. It’s easy to make, bursting with seasonal warmth, and endlessly comforting. I can’t wait for you to bring this creamy, spiced delight into your kitchen—the first bite is like a sweet celebration in every spoonful!