Imagine a warm, moist bread that captures the essence of holiday cheer in every single bite! This Holiday Eggnog Quick Bread is not just a recipe—it's a magical culinary experience that transforms the classic holiday drink into a delectable baked delight. With its rich, creamy eggnog flavor and a hint of nutmeg, this bread will transport you straight to a cozy winter wonderland, making your kitchen smell like a festive paradise.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 60 mins
Total Time: 75 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 1 Loaf
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup eggnog
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x5 inch loaf pan with butter or cooking spray, ensuring complete coverage of the interior surfaces.
- In a medium mixing bowl, sift together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and ground nutmeg. Whisk the dry ingredients until well combined and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar using an electric mixer. Beat on medium speed for 2-3 minutes until the mixture becomes light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time to the butter-sugar mixture, beating well after each addition. Ensure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next.
- Gradually pour in the eggnog and mix on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter.
- Slowly fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet ingredients using a rubber spatula. Stir gently until no dry flour streaks remain, being careful not to overmix.
- Transfer the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula to create an even surface.
- Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 55-60 minutes. To test doneness, insert a toothpick into the center of the bread - it should come out clean with just a few moist crumbs.
- Remove the bread from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then, carefully turn out the loaf onto a wire cooling rack and allow it to cool completely before slicing.
- Optional: Dust the cooled bread with powdered sugar or drizzle with a simple eggnog glaze before serving.
Tips
- Room Temperature Matters: Ensure your butter, eggs, and eggnog are at room temperature for smoother mixing and better texture.
- Don't Overmix: Mix the batter just until ingredients are combined to keep the bread tender and light.
- Check Freshness: Use fresh baking powder and baking soda to ensure proper rising.
- Oven Accuracy: Use an oven thermometer to confirm the correct baking temperature.
- Cooling is Crucial: Let the bread cool completely before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Storage Tip: Wrap the cooled bread in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve slightly warmed with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra festive flair!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 75mg
