Eggnog Bread
Eggnog Bread offers a festive twist on traditional quick bread, blending rich eggnog flavor with hints of nutmeg, crunchy pecans, and sweet dried apricots. Its moist texture and warm spices make it a delightful treat perfect for holiday mornings or cozy gatherings with friends and family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine all dry ingredients: flour, sugar, baking powder, salt, and nutmeg.
- Add beaten eggs, eggnog, and vegetable oil to the dry ingredients and stir quickly until combined.
- Stir in the chopped pecans and dried apricots.
- Divide the batter evenly into two greased 8 x 4 x 2-inch bread pans.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 55 to 60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted near the center comes out clean.
- Cool in the pans for 15 minutes before removing the breads to a cooling rack.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a splash of rum to the batter. If you prefer a nut-free version, you can substitute the pecans with sunflower seeds. To enhance the spice, try incorporating cinnamon or ginger. Make sure to measure the flour correctly by spooning it into the measuring cup, as too much can lead to a dry loaf.
Serving Suggestions
This eggnog bread is delightful served warm with a pat of butter or a drizzle of maple syrup. It pairs beautifully with a cup of coffee or tea, making it a perfect breakfast treat or afternoon snack. For a festive touch, serve it alongside Carefree Cranberry Gelatin during holiday gatherings for a colorful dessert table.
Storage & Reheating
Store the eggnog bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw at room temperature or pop slices in the microwave for a few seconds until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Eggnog Bread contains roughly 470 calories, with 6g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 644mg per serving (28% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use homemade eggnog instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Homemade eggnog can add a delightful personal touch to your bread. Just ensure it's well-blended and not too thick, as this can affect the batter's consistency.
What can I substitute for the dried apricots?
If you don't have dried apricots, feel free to use other dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or cherries. Each will impart a unique flavor and texture to the bread while still keeping it moist and delicious.
Can I make this bread gluten-free?
Yes, you can use a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend as a substitute for the regular all-purpose flour. Ensure that the blend includes xanthan gum or add it separately to maintain the bread's structure and texture.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).