Eggnog Quick Bread Recipe

If you’re searching for a delightful twist on a classic holiday favorite, this Eggnog Quick Bread Recipe is pure magic in loaf form. It blends the rich, creamy essence of traditional eggnog with comforting warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, creating a soft, moist bread that feels like a cozy hug with every bite. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your holiday brunch, surprise guests with something unique, or just enjoy a sweet treat alongside your morning coffee, this recipe is a must-try that promises smiles and satisfied taste buds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients might sound simple, but each one in this recipe plays a crucial role in building the perfect texture, flavor, and appearance of your Eggnog Quick Bread Recipe. From fragrant spices to creamy butter and real eggnog, every component brings its own special touch.

• 2 ¼ cups flour: The backbone of the bread, providing structure and tenderness.
• 2 teaspoons baking powder: Essential for that perfect rise and fluffy crumb.
• 3 teaspoons ground nutmeg: Adds warm, earthy spice integral to eggnog’s signature flavor.
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon: Enhances the sweetness with a familiar, cozy spice note.
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances the sweetness and enhances all flavors.
• ½ cup unsalted butter (softened): Brings richness and moisture to your bread.
• 1 cup Southern Comfort Eggnog: Infuses the loaf with authentic eggnog flavor and a subtle boozy warmth.
• ¾ cup sugar: Sweetens the bread just right, complementing the spices perfectly.
• 2 large eggs: Provide structure and help bind the ingredients together.
• 4 oz cream cheese (softened): For the luscious, creamy frosting topping.
• ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened): Adds silky smoothness to the frosting.
• ¼ cup Southern Comfort Eggnog (plus more if needed): Keeps the frosting light and layered with that distinct eggnog taste.
• 2 ½ – 3 cups powdered sugar: Sweetens and thickens the frosting to the perfect consistency.
• 1 teaspoon bourbon: A boozy flourish in the frosting adds depth and festivity.

How to Make Eggnog Quick Bread Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Grease a 9×5 glass loaf pan well with baking spray to ensure your bread releases easily after baking. This simple prep step sets the foundation for a perfectly cooked loaf.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, nutmeg, cinnamon, and kosher salt. This combines your leavening and warming spices evenly, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 3: Cream Butter, Eggnog, and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter, Southern Comfort eggnog, and sugar until everything is smooth and well blended. This step introduces moisture and sweetness, laying the groundwork for that rich taste.

Step 4: Add the Eggs One by One

Beat in the eggs one at a time, mixing each thoroughly before adding the next. This method helps the eggs incorporate fully, giving your quick bread a tender texture without any gaps.

Step 5: Gradually Combine Dry Mix

Slowly add the dry ingredient mixture to the wet ingredients, beating gently until just combined. Avoid over-mixing to keep your bread wonderfully light and soft.

Step 6: Fill the Loaf Pan

Transfer the batter into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. This ensures even baking and a beautiful golden crust.

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Place the loaf pan in the oven and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center – it should come out clean. This step is critical to achieve the perfect moist but fully cooked texture.

Step 8: Cool Before Removing

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before turning it out onto a wire cooling rack. Let it cool completely before frosting to avoid melting the creamy topping.

Step 9: Prepare the Cream Cheese Frosting

Beat the softened cream cheese and ¼ cup butter until light and fluffy. Gradually add powdered sugar and Southern Comfort eggnog, mixing until smooth and spreadable. Stir in the bourbon for that festive kick. If the frosting is too thick, add a little extra eggnog to reach the desired consistency.

How to Serve Eggnog Quick Bread Recipe

Garnishes

Sprinkle a dusting of extra nutmeg or cinnamon on top of the frosting for a charmingly rustic look. For a festive touch, scatter crushed toasted pecans or drizzle a bit of caramel sauce. These simple additions elevate presentation and add delightful crunch or sweetness.

Side Dishes

This bread pairs beautifully with a cozy cup of hot coffee, chai tea, or even a glass of spiced cider. You could also offer alongside fresh fruit like sliced pears or crisp apples to balance the richness and add brightness to your spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider slicing the bread thinly and toasting it for breakfast treats, then spreading with some butter or cream cheese. Or, arrange slices on a festive platter for a holiday brunch buffet. Wrapping individual slices in parchment makes lovely gifts or party favors.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Eggnog Quick Bread tight in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. The bread remains soft and flavorful, making it easy to enjoy over a few days without drying out.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the unfrosted loaf or individual slices in freezer-safe bags or containers. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature before frosting and serving to enjoy freshly baked taste anytime.

Reheating

Warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave to bring back that just-baked softness. A quick heat-up makes the cream cheese frosting feel extra creamy and melts the spices’ aroma right back into the bread.

FAQs

Can I use regular eggnog instead of Southern Comfort Eggnog?

Absolutely! While Southern Comfort eggnog adds a nice boozy hint, regular eggnog works perfectly and keeps the bread rich and flavorful.

Is this quick bread really “quick” to make?

Yes! The name comes from using baking powder instead of yeast, so no rising time is needed—baking starts right away after mixing, making it ideal for busy days.

What can I substitute if I don’t have cream cheese for the frosting?

You can try using mascarpone or a thick Greek yogurt-based frosting for a tangy but creamy alternative, though the texture and taste will vary slightly from classic cream cheese frosting.

How long will this bread stay fresh after baking?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it stays soft and delicious for up to three days at room temperature and about a week if refrigerated.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

While this recipe is naturally rich with eggs, butter, and cream cheese, you could experiment with vegan alternatives like flax eggs and plant-based substitutes, but expect a different texture and flavor profile.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited as I am to try the Eggnog Quick Bread Recipe! It’s the kind of cozy, flavorful treat that instantly feels like a celebration. Whether as a holiday centerpiece or a special indulgence on a chilly morning, this bread will become a beloved tradition. So roll up your sleeves, get mixing, and enjoy every wonderful slice of this festive delight!

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