As the season of festivities approaches, there’s an undeniable excitement in the air—think of the sweet scent wafting through your kitchen as you bake a batch of Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping. This easy holiday recipe brings the warm, cozy flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon right to your table, making it a delightful centerpiece for your celebrations. With its tender, moist crumb contrasted by a crunchy topping, this bread is perfect for sharing over morning coffee or as an enchanting afternoon snack. Plus, it’s a breeze to prepare and can even be made a day ahead, allowing you to savor each moment of this magical season. Curious how to make this irresistible treat? Let’s dive into the details!
Why is Vanilla Eggnog Bread Irresistible?
Ease of Preparation: This recipe is as simple as it gets! Even novice bakers can whip up the batter in no time.
Cozy Holiday Flavors: Nutmeg and cinnamon give it that warm, inviting taste, perfect for cold evenings.
Versatile Options: Use dairy-free eggnog or substitute the butter for coconut oil—there’s a variation for everyone.
Perfect for Sharing: These mini loaves are an ideal gift or addition to any holiday gathering, bringing smiles to all.
Make Ahead Convenience: Prepare in advance and enjoy stress-free entertaining. You can even serve it warm with a pat of butter or as a tasty pairing with your favorite hot beverage. Check out Vanilla Cinnamon Buttermilk Pancakes to add to your holiday brunch menu!
Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Ingredients
Make this cozy holiday treat with easy-to-find ingredients:
For the Bread
• Salted Butter (1/2 cup, room temperature) – Adds richness and moisture; feel free to swap for unsalted but adjusting added salt accordingly.
• Instant Vanilla Pudding (1 box, 3.4 oz) – Enhances moisture and texture; optional for a fluffier loaf, no direct substitute available.
• Prepared Eggnog (1 3/4 cups) – Provides holiday flavor and moisture; can use store-bought dairy or non-dairy alternatives or homemade if you prefer.
• Eggs (2, room temperature) – Binds the ingredients together; important to use room temperature for even mixing.
• Granulated Sugar (1 cup) – Sweetens the bread; substitute with brown sugar for a deeper flavor.
• All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups) – The main structure of the bread; can substitute with gluten-free flour with necessary adjustments.
• Baking Powder (2 tsp) – Provides lift; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
• Salt (1/4 tsp) – Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
• Nutmeg (1/4 tsp, freshly ground preferred) – Adds warmth and spice; ground nutmeg is suitable as a substitute.
• Rum Extract (1/2 tsp) – Adds depth of flavor; omit for an alcohol-free version.
For Crumb Topping
• Cold Salted Butter (1/4 cup, cubed) – Creates a lovely texture in topping; can replace with coconut oil for a delightful dairy-free option.
• Sugar (1/2 cup) – Sweetens the topping beautifully.
• All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup) – Gives structure to the crumb topping.
• Cinnamon (1/2 tsp) – Adds a lovely flavor; feel free to increase for more spice if desired.
This Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping is sure to make your holidays a bit sweeter!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature salted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the instant vanilla pudding, followed by the prepared eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, and rum extract. Beat this mixture until smooth and well combined, which will take about 2-3 minutes, creating a delightful base for your Vanilla Eggnog Bread.
Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and freshly ground nutmeg until evenly mixed. This step helps to ensure the leavening agents are well distributed. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined, which is crucial for maintaining a tender crumb in your bread as you prepare it for the next step.
Step 3: Prepare Pans
While the batter rests, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour four mini loaf pans or a single large loaf pan to prevent sticking. This step ensures that your delicious Vanilla Eggnog Bread will release easily after baking, showcasing that beautiful crumb topping you’ll create next.
Step 4: Divide & Top
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans, smoothing the tops with a spatula. For the crumb topping, mix cold cubed butter, sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon in a bowl using your fingers or a pastry cutter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle this crunchy topping generously over the batter in each pan, creating a beautiful contrast once baked.
Step 5: Bake
Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 35-40 minutes for mini loaves or up to 70 minutes for a large loaf. The Vanilla Eggnog Bread is done when a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. Keep an eye on the loaf to prevent overbaking, as it should turn a golden brown.
Step 6: Cool Down
Once baked, allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes. This is important for setting the texture of your Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping. After cooling, carefully transfer the loaves to a wire rack to cool completely. This final step will ensure the loaves maintain their perfect shape and texture as they cool down.
Expert Tips for Vanilla Eggnog Bread
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Avoid Overmixing: Gently fold in the dry ingredients to maintain a tender crumb in your Vanilla Eggnog Bread. Overmixing can lead to a tough texture.
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Room Temperature Ingredients: Always use room temperature butter, eggs, and prepared eggnog. This ensures smoother blending and better rising in the oven.
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Perfect Crumb Topping: Use cold, cubed butter for the crumb topping. Too soft butter can result in a soggy topping instead of the desired crunch.
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Check for Doneness Early: Start checking your bread around the 35-minute mark. Ovens can vary, and you want to avoid overbaking for optimal moistness.
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Creative Variations: Feel free to experiment with flavored extracts or spices like ginger to personalize your Vanilla Eggnog Bread to perfection!
Make Ahead Options
This Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping is ideal for meal prep, ensuring you can enjoy stress-free baking during the busy holiday season! You can prepare the batter up to 24 hours ahead by mixing the wet and dry ingredients separately, then combine them just before baking. If you’d like, you can also create the crumb topping up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container to maintain its quality. When ready to bake, simply pour the batter into your loaf pans, sprinkle the topping on, and pop them in the oven. This way, your delicious bread will have the perfect combination of textures, allowing you to savor the flavors of the season with minimal effort!
What to Serve with Easy Holiday Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping
Looking to elevate your Vanilla Eggnog Bread experience? Let’s create a delightful spread that’s sure to make your festive gatherings even more special!
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Silky and buttery, they pair beautifully with the sweet spices of the eggnog bread, providing a comforting contrast.
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Spiced Apple Cider: Its warm, fruity notes complement the cozy flavors of the eggnog bread, creating a harmonious balance that feels like a warm hug.
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Fresh Fruit Salad: A light, refreshing mix of seasonal fruits adds a burst of color and brightness, cutting through the richness of the bread.
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Gingerbread Cookies: Embrace the holiday spirit with these spicily sweet treats, adding a festive touch that matches the flavors in your eggnog bread.
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Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream on a slice of warm bread creates a luscious dessert experience.
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Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai echo the bread’s flavors, making for a cozy drink to enjoy alongside its warm, tender crumb.
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Cranberry Sauce: A tangy touch that contrasts perfectly with the sweetness of the bread, adding a vibrant pop of flavor.
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Chocolate Hazelnut Spread: A rich, decadent spread that turns a slice of eggnog bread into an indulgent treat, perfect for brunch or a leisurely afternoon.
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Eggnog Latte: For the truly devoted eggnog fan, a festive latte adds a touch of cheer to your bread, enhancing the holiday mood with each sip.
Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity by customizing this delightful bread to suit your tastes!
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Dairy-Free: Use coconut oil in place of butter and substitute eggnog with a non-dairy version. The resulting bread will still be deliciously moist!
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Gluten-Free: Swap out all-purpose flour for a gluten-free blend, making sure to follow package instructions for best results. Enjoy the holiday flavors without gluten!
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Sweetener Swap: Replace granulated sugar with coconut sugar or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness. These alternatives add unique flavors while keeping it wholesome.
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Extra Spices: Enhance the flavor by adding 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger or allspice. This twist brings an extra festive warmth to your bread.
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Flavorful Extracts: Try a splash of almond or hazelnut extract instead of rum extract. Each will lend a delightful and nutty flavor to your loaf.
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Fruit Add-Ins: Consider folding in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries or chopped walnuts for added texture and bursts of flavor in every bite.
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Mini Loaves Variety: Make smaller loaves for gifting! Consider using different flavors or add-ins for each mini loaf for a fun assortment. Check out my Apple Crumb Cake for another holiday treat!
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Cream Cheese Frosting: For a more decadent twist, top your loaf with a cream cheese frosting after it cools. The creamy, tangy frosting will beautifully complement the sweetness of the bread!
How to Store and Freeze Vanilla Eggnog Bread
Room Temperature: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain moisture.
Fridge: Refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to a week, keeping it fresh and flavorful for longer enjoyment.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze sliced bread wrapped in plastic and then in aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge or at room temperature before serving.
Reheating: To enjoy it warm, reheat individual slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-10 minutes.
Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe FAQs
How do I select the right eggnog for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing eggnog, look for a creamy consistency and a festive flavor profile. For the best results, I recommend using full-fat varieties for richness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, dairy-free eggnog made from almond or oat milk works beautifully, just make sure it’s unsweetened so it doesn’t alter the overall sweetness of your bread.
What’s the best way to store Vanilla Eggnog Bread after baking?
Very simple! Wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. At room temperature, it stays fresh for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to a week—just make sure it’s well-wrapped to avoid drying out!
Can I freeze Vanilla Eggnog Bread, and if so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze! To do this, slice the bread first, then wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight or at room temperature for a few hours. You can even warm it in the oven for that just-baked feel!
What should I do if my bread didn’t rise properly?
Don’t worry; it happens to the best of us! If your bread doesn’t rise as expected, check a couple of things: First, ensure that your baking powder is fresh since this is the leavening agent. Also, be cautious not to overmix the batter after adding the flour, as this can inhibit the rise. Next time, give your batter a gentle fold until just combined.
Is this recipe suitable for guests with dietary restrictions?
Absolutely! You can easily make adjustments for various dietary needs. To make it dairy-free, swap the butter for coconut oil and use dairy-free eggnog. Additionally, you can use gluten-free all-purpose flour for those with gluten sensitivities. Just remember, each substitution might slightly alter the texture, but the deliciousness will remain!
Can I use other extracts or spices for variety?
Yes, the more the merrier! Experimenting with different flavored extracts, such as almond or hazelnut, can add a unique twist to the flavor. You can also substitute nutmeg with ground cinnamon or even allspice for a different seasonal flair, making this Vanilla Eggnog Bread your own holiday signature!
Cozy Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the room-temperature salted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Gradually mix in the instant vanilla pudding, followed by the prepared eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, and rum extract. Beat this mixture until smooth and well combined, about 2-3 minutes.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, and freshly ground nutmeg until evenly mixed. Gradually add to the wet ingredients, mixing gently until just combined.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour the mini loaf pans or a single large loaf pan to prevent sticking.
- Pour the batter evenly into the prepared pans. For the crumb topping, mix cold, cubed butter, sugar, all-purpose flour, and cinnamon until it resembles coarse crumbs. Sprinkle over the batter.
- Bake for 35-40 minutes for mini loaves or up to 70 minutes for a large loaf. The bread is done when a toothpick comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs.
- Allow the bread to cool in the pans for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
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