Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding

Every holiday season, I face the same dilemma. My refrigerator sits packed with festive leftovers, and a half-carton of eggnog always lingers in the back. As a budget-conscious cook, I refuse to let good food go to waste.

One chilly December afternoon, I decided to transform those leftovers into something spectacular. I grabbed a loaf of day-old bread, that lonely eggnog, and a few pantry staples. The result was a warm, comforting, and incredibly delicious Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

My kids devoured it before it even finished cooling! This recipe quickly became a family tradition because it tastes expensive but costs pennies to make. You do not need fancy skills or a massive grocery budget to master this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

It solves the problem of “what to do with the rest of the nog” while providing a restaurant-quality dessert. In my house, we call this the ultimate winter hack. This Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding fills the kitchen with the scent of nutmeg and vanilla, making everyone run to the table. If you want a stress-free dessert that utilizes what you already have, this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding is your new best friend.

Why You’ll Love This Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding

You will absolutely adore this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding for several reasons. First, it hits that perfect sweet spot between a custard and a cake. The texture is soft, pillowy, and rich without feeling overly heavy.

Second, this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding saves you money. Instead of buying special ingredients, you use stale bread that you might otherwise toss. Any practical home cook knows that stale bread absorbs liquid much better than fresh bread.

Therefore, your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding will have the perfect consistency every single time. Furthermore, the eggnog provides all the heavy lifting. It already contains sugar, cream, and spices.

This means you spend less time measuring and more time enjoying your family. Busy parents appreciate how quickly this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding comes together. You can prep it in ten minutes and let the oven do the rest.

Additionally, this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding works perfectly for brunch or dessert. It bridges the gap between a morning treat and a decadent after-dinner delight. Finally, you can easily scale this recipe. Whether you feed a small family or a large holiday crowd, this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding adapts to your needs perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make the best Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding, you only need a handful of basic ingredients. I bet you already have most of these in your pantry right now! Using what you have keeps your grocery bill low and your stress levels even lower.

For this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding, the bread serves as the foundation. I prefer using a sturdy loaf, but even standard sandwich bread works if you toast it slightly first. The star ingredient, of course, is the eggnog.

Use your favorite brand or even a dairy-free alternative if necessary. Here is exactly what you need for your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

Substitutions & Variations

I believe every recipe should fit your specific needs and budget. If you don’t have exactly what I listed, don’t worry! You can still make a fantastic Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

For instance, if you lack French bread, try using leftover glazed donuts or even cinnamon raisin bread. Cinnamon raisin bread adds an extra layer of flavor to the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding without extra cost. If you prefer a dairy-free version, use an almond or oat-based eggnog.

These alternatives still result in a creamy and delicious Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding. Do you want to add some crunch? Toss in a handful of pecans or walnuts.

If you like fruit, dried cranberries or raisins provide a nice tart contrast to the sweet custard in your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding. Some people even like to add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard. This gives the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding an “adult” twist that feels very sophisticated for a holiday party.

For those watching their sugar intake, replace the granulated sugar with a sugar substitute or maple syrup. No matter what changes you make, the core of the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding remains simple and satisfying. Experiment with what is in your cupboard and make this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding your own unique creation.

If you’re looking for more versatile recipes that cater to your needs, check out these amazing No-Bake Energy Balls With Oats and Peanut Butter for Easy Snacks and Weekly Meal Prep. These energy balls are a great snack option that can also be part of your weekly meal prep.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to ensure your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding turns out perfectly every time. I have broken it down so even the busiest cook can manage it easily. Preparation is the key to success with any Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding recipe.

1. Preheat and Prep: Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×9 inch baking dish or a 2-quart casserole dish with butter or non-stick spray. This prevents the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding from sticking to the sides.
2. Cube the Bread: Cut your stale bread into 1-inch cubes. If your bread feels too fresh, spread the cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 5-7 minutes. Dry bread is essential for a great Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding because it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
3. Mix the Custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until the mixture looks pale. Pour in the eggnog, melted butter, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk vigorously until the ingredients combine thoroughly. This custard forms the heart of your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.
4. Combine: Place the bread cubes into the prepared baking dish. Pour the eggnog mixture evenly over the bread. Use a spoon or your clean hands to gently press the bread down. You want every piece of bread to soak up the liquid for your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.
5. Let it Rest: Allow the mixture to sit for at least 15-20 minutes. This resting period ensures the bread fully hydrates. In fact, you can even prep your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding the night before and let it sit in the fridge!
6. Bake: Place the dish in the center of the oven. Bake the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding for 40 to 50 minutes. The top should look golden brown, and the center should feel set but still slightly jiggly.
7. Cool and Serve: Remove the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding from the oven. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the custard to firm up properly.

Pro Tips for Success

Over the years, I have learned a few tricks to make this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding even better. First, always use stale bread. If you use fresh, soft bread, your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding might turn into a soggy mess.

I often buy the “oops” bread from the bakery clearance rack specifically for this purpose. It saves money and provides the perfect texture. Second, do not overbake the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

It continues to cook slightly as it cools. If you leave it in too long, the eggs might scramble, and the texture will become rubbery. Third, use high-quality eggnog if your budget allows.

Since the eggnog provides most of the flavor, a premium brand makes a noticeable difference in your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding. However, even the store-brand nog works beautifully with the added nutmeg and vanilla. Fourth, try a water bath if you want an ultra-silky texture.

Place your baking dish inside a larger pan filled with an inch of hot water. This technique protects the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding from the direct heat of the oven. Finally, always taste your eggnog before adding sugar.

Some brands are incredibly sweet, and you might want to reduce the added sugar in your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding to compensate. These small adjustments ensure a perfect result every time you make Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

To enhance your breakfast experience, don’t miss out on the delicious The Perfect Breakfast Casserole: Blueberry Pancake Bake for Easy Mornings. This recipe offers a delightful and easy breakfast solution that pairs beautifully with your holiday dessert choices.

Storage & Reheating Tips

If you have any Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding left over, count yourself lucky! It actually tastes incredible the next day. To store it, wait until the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding cools completely to room temperature.

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can also transfer individual portions to airtight containers. Store the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

I do not recommend freezing bread pudding, as the texture of the custard can change significantly upon thawing. When you are ready for a second helping, reheating is simple. For a single serving, place a slice of Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding on a microwave-safe plate.

Heat it in 30-second intervals until warm. If you want to maintain the slightly crispy top, reheat the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Covering it with foil during oven reheating prevents it from drying out.

A quick tip from my kitchen: pour a tiny bit of fresh eggnog over the cold Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding before reheating to restore its moisture. This makes the leftovers taste just as fresh as the first day you served the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

What to Serve With This Recipe

While this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding is delicious on its own, a few simple additions can take it to the next level. I love serving it with a dollop of homemade whipped cream. It adds a light, airy contrast to the dense Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

If you want something even more decadent, drizzle some warm caramel sauce or maple syrup over the top. My husband prefers a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream melting into the warm layers of the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding. For a festive touch, sprinkle some pomegranate seeds or fresh raspberries around the plate.

The tartness of the fruit cuts through the richness of the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding perfectly. If you serve this for breakfast, pair it with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. The salty and sweet combination is absolutely addictive!

A hot cup of coffee or a spiced chai tea also complements the flavors of the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding beautifully. No matter how you serve it, this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding will be the star of the show. It is versatile enough to fit into any meal plan without costing you a fortune in extra sides.

For a complete meal that complements this dessert, try making Greek Chicken Bowls: Easy Clean Eating Meal Prep. These bowls provide a fresh and healthy option that balances out the sweetness of your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding.

FAQs

Can I make Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding the night before. Simply cover it and keep it in the fridge.

In the morning, let it sit on the counter for 20 minutes to take the chill off before baking. This makes holiday mornings much less stressful.

What type of bread is best for Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding?

The best bread is any “sturdy” bread like Brioche, Challah, or French bread. These types of bread hold their shape well. However, you can use any bread you have on hand for an Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding. Just make sure it is dry or toasted first.

Is there alcohol in Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding?

Most store-bought eggnog does not contain alcohol. However, if you use a “spiked” eggnog, most of the alcohol will cook off in the oven. The Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding will retain the flavor but won’t be intoxicating. Always check your eggnog label if you are serving children.

How do I know when the Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding is done?

The Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding is done when the edges are golden and have pulled away slightly from the dish. The center should be set but still have a slight “wobble” when you gently shake the pan. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean, but moist.

Can I use low-fat eggnog for this recipe?

You can certainly use low-fat eggnog in your Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding. However, the final result will be less creamy and slightly less rich. If you use low-fat nog, consider adding an extra egg yolk to help with the custard’s consistency.

Eggnog bread pudding is a delicious twist on traditional bread pudding that utilizes eggnog as a custard base. This dessert is particularly popular during the holiday season, making it a festive option that many enjoy, enhancing gatherings with its rich flavors and comforting texture, as detailed in this comprehensive article.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

This information is an estimate based on standard ingredients for Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding. Actual values may vary depending on the brand of eggnog and type of bread you choose. I always remind my readers that while this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding is a treat, it’s all about balance!

In conclusion, this Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding represents everything I love about home cooking. It is practical, affordable, and incredibly delicious. By using simple ingredients and smart kitchen hacks, you can create a dessert that feels like a million bucks.

Your family will love the warm, spiced flavors, and you will love how easy it is to clean up. Don’t let that holiday eggnog go to waste this year. Turn it into a beautiful Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding and enjoy every single bite. Happy cooking from my kitchen to yours!

Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding

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• Author: Sadie
• Total Time: 50-60 mins
• Yield: 8 servings
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Easy Eggnog Bread Pudding is a warm, comforting dessert made with stale bread and eggnog, perfect for utilizing holiday leftovers while providing a rich flavor reminiscent of custard and cake.

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Ingredients

6-8 cups Stale Bread Cubes (Challah, Brioche, or French bread)
2.5 cups Eggnog (Full-fat)
3 Large Eggs
1/3 cup Granulated Sugar
4 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (Melted and slightly cooled)
1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract
1/2 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg
1/8 teaspoon Pinch of Salt

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×9 inch baking dish
2. Cut your stale bread into 1-inch cubes. Optionally, toast them if they are too fresh
3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and sugar until pale. Add eggnog, melted butter, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk until combined
4. Place the bread cubes into the baking dish and pour the eggnog mixture over them. Gently press the bread down to soak
5. Let it sit for at least 15-20 minutes to hydrate the bread
6. Bake for 40-50 minutes until golden brown, with a slightly jiggly center
7. Cool for 10 minutes before serving

Notes

Always use stale bread for the best texture.

Optionally, prep the pudding the night before and refrigerate.

• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 40-50 mins
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American