Eggnog Bread Recipe – Best Moist Holiday Loaf Ever (2025)

Q: What kind of eggnog works best in baking?

Use full-fat eggnog for the best flavor and texture. Low-fat versions tend to produce a drier loaf. Homemade eggnog is also a great option if you want to control the sweetness and spice levels. Check out our Homemade Eggnog Recipe if you want to make your own from scratch.

Q: Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free loaves may take slightly longer to bake through.

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Looking for a cozy and festive way to use up leftover eggnog? This Eggnog Bread recipe is the perfect solution. It’s rich, moist, warmly spiced, and finished with a sweet eggnog glaze that screams holiday comfort. Whether you serve it for breakfast, dessert, or wrap it as a gift, this quick bread will become a seasonal favorite in your home.

If you love holiday flavors, don’t miss our Cranberry Pecan Pumpkin Bread recipe for another crowd-pleasing loaf!

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Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Bread

A festive twist on classic quick bread

Eggnog bread takes your usual quick bread and dials up the flavor with real eggnog, warm spices, and a splash of rum (or extract). It’s like your favorite holiday drink transformed into a soft, golden loaf that’s perfect for gifting or snacking with coffee.

Moist texture with warming holiday spices

This loaf isn’t dry or bland. Thanks to the full-fat eggnog and oil-butter combo, each slice is tender and rich. Plus, the cinnamon and nutmeg lend that unmistakable holiday warmth with every bite.

The perfect way to use up leftover eggnog

Got extra eggnog in the fridge after a party or dinner? This recipe is a genius way to repurpose it into something delicious. Even if you’re not a huge fan of sipping eggnog, you’ll love it baked into this bread.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Key ingredients that make it special

To make a full-size loaf of eggnog bread, you’ll need basic pantry staples with a few holiday upgrades:

Ingredient	Purpose
All-purpose flour	The base of the quick bread
Baking powder	Helps the loaf rise
Cinnamon & nutmeg	Essential for holiday flavor
Sugar	Adds sweetness
Eggs	Binds everything together
Eggnog (full-fat)	Moisture + festive flavor
Vegetable oil	Keeps the bread tender
Butter (melted)	Adds richness
Vanilla extract	Enhances the overall flavor
Rum or extract	Optional, but adds depth

Optional add-ins for variations

Feel free to stir in:

½ cup chopped pecans
¼ cup dried cranberries
½ tsp almond extract for a twist

Looking for inspiration? Try our Apple Bread Pudding for another creative holiday dessert idea.

Choosing between rum and extract

Don’t want to use alcohol? No problem. You can swap 1 tablespoon of rum for 1–2 teaspoons of rum extract. It’ll give you the same warm, deep flavor without the booze. Both options work beautifully.

How to Make Eggnog Bread from Scratch

Step-by-step instructions

Prep your pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment or grease well.
Mix dry ingredients: In a bowl, whisk flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Whisk wet ingredients: In a large bowl, combine eggs, sugar, oil, melted butter, eggnog, vanilla, and rum (or extract).
Combine: Stir dry ingredients into wet until just combined—don’t overmix!
Bake: Pour the batter into the prepared pan and bake for 50–65 minutes, until a toothpick comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs.
Cool: Let it sit in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a rack to cool completely.

Pro baking tips for best results

Use room temperature ingredients for a smoother batter.
Go easy on the stirring—overmixing leads to dense bread.
Always check baking soda and powder for freshness. If it doesn’t fizz in hot water, it’s time to replace.

Check out our tips for other festive bakes like Gingerbread Pancakes—perfect for holiday mornings!

How to tell when it’s perfectly baked

The top should be golden and slightly cracked. Insert a toothpick into the center—if it comes out clean or with moist crumbs, it’s done. If it’s wet, keep baking in 5-minute increments.

Spiced Eggnog Glaze (Optional but Delicious)

Glaze ingredients and proportions

The glaze is simple and highlights the eggnog even more. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup powdered sugar
¼ tsp ground cinnamon
⅛ tsp ground nutmeg
½ tsp rum or extract
2–4 tbsp eggnog

How to adjust thickness

Start with 2 tablespoons of eggnog, then add more as needed to thin it out. You want it just thick enough to drizzle but thin enough to spread evenly.

Drizzle or soak? Tips for perfect finish

For a subtle glaze, drizzle it on once the loaf is fully cooled. Want a richer finish? Let it soak in slightly by glazing while it’s still a bit warm.

Don’t miss our Cinnamon Sugar Pumpkin Muffins if you love warm, spiced toppings!

Serving and Storage Ideas

Best ways to serve Eggnog Bread

This eggnog bread is incredibly versatile. Serve it warm for breakfast with a cup of coffee, slice it as a midday snack, or plate it with ice cream as a cozy holiday dessert. Want to impress guests? Toast a slice and spread with cinnamon butter or a dollop of whipped cream.

Don’t miss our Brown Sugar Cinnamon Butter for a quick homemade topping that pairs perfectly with this loaf.

How to store for freshness

To keep your eggnog bread moist and flavorful:

Wrap it in plastic wrap or foil once fully cooled.
Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
For longer shelf life, refrigerate it for up to a week—just warm slices slightly before serving to restore that fresh-baked texture.

Can you freeze it? Yes—here’s how

Absolutely! Eggnog bread freezes well:

Skip the glaze (add it after thawing).
Wrap the cooled loaf tightly in plastic wrap.
Place in a freezer-safe zip bag or airtight container.
Label and freeze for up to 3 months.
Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bring to room temp and glaze if desired.

Discover great ideas like our Frozen Eggnog Pie if you’re a fan of make-ahead holiday treats.

Flavor Variations You Should Try

Make it with pecans or cranberries

Chopped toasted pecans add a delightful crunch and earthy flavor, while dried cranberries offer a tart pop that balances the sweetness of the bread and glaze.

Add ½ cup of either (or both!) to the batter before baking for a flavorful twist.

Try it as mini loaves or muffins

Need a giftable treat? Divide the batter into three mini loaf pans or 12 muffin cups. Bake for 30–35 minutes for mini loaves or 18–22 minutes for muffins. Perfect for gifting to friends, neighbors, or coworkers!

Looking for a bite-sized dessert? Try our Caramel Apple Fritter Bread for another spin on sweet holiday bread.

Skip the glaze or swap it for frosting

If you prefer something richer, a cream cheese frosting makes a decadent topping. Or skip the glaze altogether—the bread is sweet and moist enough to stand on its own.

FAQ About Eggnog Bread

Can you make eggnog bread without rum?

Yes! Simply swap out the rum for 1–2 teaspoons of rum extract, or skip it altogether. The eggnog and spices provide plenty of flavor on their own.

What kind of eggnog works best in baking?

Use full-fat eggnog for the best flavor and texture. Low-fat versions tend to produce a drier loaf. Homemade eggnog is also a great option if you want to control the sweetness and spice levels.
Check out our Homemade Eggnog Recipe if you want to make your own from scratch.

How long does eggnog bread last?

At room temperature, it stays fresh for 2 days. Refrigerated, it lasts up to 7 days. For long-term storage, freeze it (un-glazed) for up to 3 months.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes! Replace the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend that includes xanthan gum for structure. Keep an eye on the baking time, as gluten-free loaves may take slightly longer to bake through.

Conclusion

This easy Eggnog Bread recipe brings all the nostalgic flavors of the holiday season into one irresistible loaf. With its ultra-moist crumb, warm spices, and sweet eggnog glaze, it’s a versatile treat perfect for breakfast, dessert, or gifting. Plus, with options to add nuts, cranberries, or go gluten-free, there’s a version for everyone to enjoy.

Whether you’re making it ahead, freezing a few loaves, or baking it fresh for guests, this holiday quick bread is a must-bake. So grab that leftover eggnog and whip up a loaf — your kitchen will smell like Christmas in no time.

Looking for inspiration? Try our Magic Brownie Cookies next for another festive dessert idea!

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