Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping

Name: Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 3/4 cup eggnog; 1/2 cup vegetable oil; 2 large eggs; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup cold butter, cubed; 1 cup rolled oats

Eggnog bread with crumb topping is a delicious and festive twist on traditional bread recipes. Perfect for the holidays, this beloved treat combines the rich flavors of eggnog with warm spices, making it a delightful addition to any gathering or breakfast table. With its seasonal charm and flavorful crust, this mouthwatering bread is sure to please everyone in your family.

Why Make This Recipe

There’s something special about the holiday season that brings family and friends together, and what better way to celebrate than with homemade goodies? This eggnog bread is not only a treat for the taste buds but also evokes nostalgia and warm memories associated with family gatherings. The light, moist texture and the buttery, crumbly topping elevate this simple bread into a gourmet experience.

Additionally, making eggnog bread from scratch allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring freshness and flavor while also accommodating any dietary preferences. It’s a wonderful way to use leftover eggnog, and the optional nuts add a delightful crunch. Whether enjoyed on Christmas morning or as an afternoon snack, this bread brings warmth and joy to the season.

How to Make Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping

Creating your own eggnog bread with crumb topping is simple and straightforward. Follow these easy steps to whip up a loaf that will make your home smell like the holidays.

Ingredients

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
3/4 cup eggnog
1/2 cup vegetable oil
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup cold butter, cubed
1 cup rolled oats

Directions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a loaf pan.
In a large bowl, combine the flour, granulated sugar, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mix well to ensure all dry ingredients are evenly distributed.
In another bowl, whisk together the eggnog, vegetable oil, eggs, and vanilla until fully combined.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine.
If you wish to add some nuttiness, fold in the chopped pecans or walnuts now.
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and set aside.
For the crumb topping, mix together the brown sugar, oats, and cubed butter in a small bowl until crumbly. Use your fingers or a fork to incorporate the butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
Sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter in the loaf pan evenly.
Bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
Let the bread cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Slice and serve once cooled.

Pro Tips for Success with Eggnog Bread

Use Fresh Ingredients: Ensure your baking powder is fresh to help the bread rise appropriately.
Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined to avoid tough bread.
Let Cool Completely: Allow the bread to cool fully before slicing for the best texture.
Add a Glaze: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and vanilla for a sweet finish.
Experiment with Add-ins: Feel free to swap the nuts for chocolate chips or dried fruit for a different flavor profile.

Flavor Variations for Eggnog Bread

Spiced Eggnog variant: Add a pinch of cloves or ginger for an additional spiced flavor that truly embodies the holiday spirit.
Chocolate Chip Eggnog Bread: Fold in semi-sweet chocolate chips to add richness and sweetness.
Cranberry-Walnut Twist: Use dried cranberries instead of nuts for a tart and sweet surprise in each bite.
Maple Eggnog Bread: Replace half of the sugar with maple syrup for a unique and delicious twist.
Pumpkin Eggnog Bread: Mix in 1/2 cup of pureed pumpkin for a seasonal flavor addition that pairs beautifully with eggnog.

Serving Suggestions for Eggnog Bread

Eggnog bread is versatile and can be enjoyed in various settings. Here are some delightful ways to serve it:

Toast with Butter: Spread a thin layer of salted butter on a warm slice for a savory touch.
Breakfast Treat: Serve slices alongside scrambled eggs and bacon for a festive breakfast spread.
Dessert Option: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or ice cream for a sweet dessert.
Pair with Coffee or Tea: A slice of eggnog bread with your favorite warm beverage makes for a cozy afternoon treat.
Gift-Baking: Wrap slices in festive packaging for a delightful homemade gift.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Eggnog Bread

To ensure your eggnog bread stays fresh and delicious:

Room Temperature: Store the loaf wrapped in plastic wrap or aluminum foil at room temperature for 2-3 days.
Refrigerator: If you live in a warm climate or want to extend its shelf life, store it in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil. It can last for up to three months in the freezer. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

| Nutrient | Amount |
|—————|————–|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 40g |
| Fat | 10g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 150mg |

FAQ About Eggnog Bread

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?

Yes, using store-bought eggnog is perfectly acceptable and makes the process faster. Just choose a high-quality eggnog for the best flavor.

What can I substitute for eggs in eggnog bread?

If you need an egg substitute, consider using flax eggs or applesauce. For each egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water and let it sit for a few minutes until it thickens.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour mix designed for baking. Ensure that your other ingredients, like baking powder, are also gluten-free.

How do I know when my eggnog bread is done baking?

The bread is done when a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs. If there is wet batter on the toothpick, allow it to bake for a few more minutes and check again.

How long does this bread last?

Eggnog bread can last at room temperature for about 2-3 days, while refrigerated, it can last up to a week. If frozen, it retains its freshness for about three months.

Final Thoughts

Eggnog bread with crumb topping is a delightful recipe that brings the flavors and feelings of the holiday season into your kitchen. It’s not just a treat; it’s a way to create memories with family and friends. Whether enjoyed fresh out of the oven or toasted the next day, this bread is sure to become a cherished favorite. So gather your ingredients and start baking—your kitchen, and your loved ones, will thank you!