Eggnog Bread Pudding – Delicious Holiday Treat

Eggnog Bread Pudding is a delicious and festive way to enjoy the classic flavors of the holiday season in the form of a comforting breakfast casserole. This dish combines the rich, creamy goodness of eggnog with the soft, fluffy texture of bread pudding, creating a treat that’s perfect for Christmas morning. With a hint of rum, cinnamon, and nutmeg, it’s the ultimate holiday indulgence. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in advance, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and friends while the oven works its magic.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe

This Eggnog Bread Pudding is more than just a dessert—it’s a holiday breakfast masterpiece. The combination of sweet, spiced bread pudding and a rich rum-butter syrup makes for a decadent morning treat. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy Christmas breakfast or a festive brunch, offering both flavor and convenience. The best part? It can be made ahead, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the holidays.

Ingredients for Eggnog Bread Pudding

To make this delightful Eggnog Bread Pudding, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• Challah or Brioche Bread: This eggy, rich bread acts like a sponge, soaking up the eggnog mixture to create a soft, fluffy texture.
• Golden Raisins: These raisins add a touch of sweetness and a little chewiness to the pudding.
• Eggnog: The star ingredient, giving the pudding its creamy, spiced flavor.
• Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and balances the richness of the eggnog.
• Large Eggs: Essential for the custard-like consistency of the bread pudding.
• Granulated Sugar: Adds sweetness to balance the spices and eggnog.
• Dark Rum: Enhances the holiday flavors and adds a rich depth.
• Vanilla Extract: A classic flavor that pairs wonderfully with eggnog and spices.
• Cinnamon, Nutmeg, and Kosher Salt: These spices give the pudding its signature warmth and holiday aroma.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions

• Brioche: If you can’t find challah bread, brioche is an excellent substitute. It’s slightly sweeter and adds a buttery richness to the pudding.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Skip the dark rum if you prefer a non-alcoholic dish. The bread pudding will still be delicious with the same creamy custard base.
• Dried Cranberries: For a twist, swap the raisins with dried cranberries for a pop of tartness.
• Vegan Milk: If you’re looking for a dairy-free version, coconut or almond milk works well as a substitute for whole milk.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Eggnog Bread Pudding

1. Prepare the Bread and Raisins: Grease a 13-by-9-inch baking dish with butter. Toss together the bread cubes and raisins in the dish, spreading them into an even layer. Set aside.
2. Make the Eggnog Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggnog, milk, eggs, sugar, dark rum, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours or overnight.
3. Preheat the Oven: When you’re ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F. Remove the bread pudding from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while the oven heats up.
4. Add the Spiced Topping: In a small bowl, stir together the turbinado sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Uncover the bread pudding and sprinkle the spiced topping evenly over the top.
5. Bake the Bread Pudding: Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour and 5 minutes to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the pudding is golden brown and set. Tent with foil after 30 minutes if it starts to brown too quickly.
6. Make the Rum-Butter Syrup: While the bread pudding is baking, combine maple syrup, butter, and salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the butter melts. Remove from the heat and stir in the dark rum. Serve this warm syrup with the bread pudding.

Tips & Tricks for the Perfect Eggnog Bread Pudding

• Make It Ahead: Eggnog Bread Pudding is perfect for making ahead. Allow the bread to soak in the eggnog mixture overnight, which lets the flavors meld and results in a perfectly custardy texture.
• Check Doneness: Ensure the pudding is fully cooked by inserting a knife into the center—it should come out clean when the pudding is done.
• Texture Adjustments: If you prefer a softer pudding, reduce the baking time slightly, or for a firmer texture, bake it a little longer.
• Storage: Leftover bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or larger portions in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Pairing Ideas and Variations for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Eggnog Bread Pudding pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings:

• Fresh Berries: Serve with a handful of fresh berries like raspberries or strawberries for a burst of color and sweetness.
• Whipped Cream: Top with a dollop of whipped cream or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra indulgent treat.
• Spicy Version: Add more cinnamon or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the spiced topping for a bit of heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to make a delicious gluten-free version of this classic dish.
• Make-Ahead Tips: If you want to prep this dish in advance, assemble everything the night before and refrigerate. Just bake it in the morning for a fresh, warm breakfast.

Conclusion: A Must-Try Holiday Breakfast

Eggnog Bread Pudding is a festive treat that brings the flavors of the holiday season straight to your breakfast table. With its creamy custard base, spiced bread, and rich rum-butter syrup, it’s a dish that will delight everyone who tries it. Whether you make it ahead of time or bake it fresh, this comforting recipe will elevate your holiday mornings, making them extra special. The balance of sweetness, warmth, and indulgence makes this bread pudding a true crowd-pleaser. So why not try it this holiday season and enjoy a delicious start to your day?

FAQs About Eggnog Bread Pudding

More Relevant Recipes

• Eggnog Bread – Festive, Moist Holiday Treat: This eggnog-infused bread is the perfect companion to your Eggnog Bread Pudding. It’s a soft, rich loaf that can be served for breakfast or as a holiday treat, with the same seasonal flavors that will complement your morning spread.
• Boozy Eggnog Bundt Cake – A Holiday Dessert: For those who enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of eggnog, this boozy bundt cake offers a decadent dessert option. With the same rich eggnog flavor and a hint of rum, it’s a perfect holiday dessert to serve after a festive meal.
• Eggnog Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust: A creamy eggnog cheesecake on a spiced gingersnap crust makes for an indulgent dessert that fits perfectly with the holiday spirit. If you love the eggnog flavors in your bread pudding, this cheesecake will be a hit at your holiday gatherings.

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