Name: Irresistibly Moist Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 70 min
Ingredients: 1/2 cup Salted Butter (room temperature); 1 box Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix ((3.4 oz)); 1/4 tsp Salt; 1 tsp Vanilla Extract (use pure extract for best flavor); 1 3/4 cups Prepared Eggnog (well-chilled); 1/2 tsp Rum Extract (optional); 1 cup Sugar; 2 count Eggs (room temperature); 1/4 tsp Nutmeg (freshly ground preferred); 2 1/4 cups All-Purpose Flour; 2 tsp Baking Powder; 1/4 cup Cold, Cubed Salted Butter; 1/2 tsp Cinnamon; 1/2 cup All-Purpose Flour; 1/2 cup Sugar

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of warm spices swirling around me created an instant holiday mood. Nothing says festive quite like my Easy Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping, a delightful twist on traditional eggnog that elevates any breakfast or snack. This sweet bread delivers that creamy richness we adore, paired with hints of nutmeg and cinnamon that perfectly capture the season. What I love most is how effortlessly it comes together—ideal for holiday gatherings or cozy afternoons with family. Plus, it’s a make-ahead marvel, ensuring you have a delicious treat at your fingertips without last-minute stress. Are you ready to fill your kitchen with festive cheer?

Why is This Eggnog Bread a Must-Bake?

Festive Delight: The combination of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon brings the holiday spirit right into your kitchen.

Effortless Preparation: With simple steps and common ingredients, you’ll have this delightful bread ready in no time!

Make Ahead: Prepare it in advance for a stress-free holiday season, ensuring you have a delicious treat on hand whenever cravings strike.

Versatile Pairings: Enjoy it warm with butter or cream cheese, or serve alongside other favorites like Vanilla Waffle Cookies for a delightful brunch spread.

Perfect for Gifting: Impress friends and family with a homemade gift that speaks of love and warmth. This Vanilla Eggnog Bread is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!

Vanilla Eggnog Bread Ingredients

For the Bread

Salted Butter (1/2 cup, room temperature) – Provides moisture and richness; ensure it’s softened for easy creaming.
Instant Vanilla Pudding Mix (1 (3.4 oz) box) – Adds moisture and flavor; can be replaced with another flavor if desired.
Salt (1/4 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor; essential for balancing sweetness.
Vanilla Extract (1 tsp) – Adds aromatic sweetness; use pure extract for the best flavor.
Prepared Eggnog (1 3/4 cups) – Main flavor component; can be store-bought or homemade, and ensure it’s well-chilled.
Rum Extract (1/2 tsp) – Enhances richness and depth; optional, but adds a nice flavor.
Sugar (1 cup) – Essential for sweetness and structure.
Eggs (2, room temperature) – Provides leavening and richness; important to use at room temperature for proper mixing.
Nutmeg (1/4 tsp, freshly ground preferred) – Offers a distinct holiday flavor; can use ground nutmeg if fresh is unavailable.
All-Purpose Flour (2 1/4 cups) – Forms the structure of the bread; can substitute with gluten-free flour as needed.
Baking Powder (2 tsp) – Leavening agent that ensures the bread rises properly.

For the Crumb Topping

Cold, Cubed Salted Butter (1/4 cup) – Ensures a crumbly texture; do not over-melt.
Cinnamon (1/2 tsp) – Adds warmth and spice flavor.
All-Purpose Flour (1/2 cup) & Sugar (1/2 cup) – Form the base of the crumb topping, creating a sweet, crunchy layer.

Now that we have everything prepped, let’s get baking and fill your kitchen with the warmth of my Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping

Step 1: Prepare Wet Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, cream together 1/2 cup of softened salted butter, 1 cup of sugar, and 1 box of instant vanilla pudding mix until smooth and fluffy. Add in 1 3/4 cups of well-chilled eggnog, 2 room temperature eggs, 1 tsp of vanilla extract, and 1/2 tsp of rum extract. Mix thoroughly until fully combined and creamy, creating a rich base for your Vanilla Eggnog Bread.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients
In a separate medium bowl, whisk together 2 1/4 cups of all-purpose flour, 2 tsp of baking powder, 1/4 tsp of salt, and 1/4 tsp of freshly grated nutmeg. This step is crucial for ensuring that your dry ingredients are evenly distributed, which will help the bread rise beautifully in the oven. Set aside while you complete the next step.

Step 3: Mix Together
Gradually fold the dry ingredient mixture into the wet mixture, stirring gently until just combined. Be careful not to overmix; a few lumps are perfectly fine. The batter for your Vanilla Eggnog Bread should be thick yet pourable, with a light, creamy texture. This will ensure a moist and tender loaf after baking.

Step 4: Prepare Pans
While preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C), grease and flour four mini loaf pans to prevent the bread from sticking. Make sure to shake off any excess flour. Proper preparation of the pans helps achieve that golden, slightly crusty exterior while ensuring that your Vanilla Eggnog Bread comes out perfectly shaped and intact.

Step 5: Divide Batter
Evenly distribute the prepared batter into the greased mini loaf pans, filling each one about three-quarters full. Use a spatula to smooth the tops for an even bake, ensuring each loaf will rise beautifully and evenly. This step creates the perfect base for your crumb topping, which will add that extra delightful crunch.

Step 6: Make Crumb Topping
In another small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of cold, cubed salted butter, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/2 cup of sugar, and 1/2 tsp of cinnamon. Using your fingers or a pastry cutter, mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Aim for a sandy texture that will sprinkle easily over the batter. This crumb topping adds a deliciously sweet crunch to your Vanilla Eggnog Bread.

Step 7: Bake and Cool
Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter in each loaf pan. Place the pans in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, they are ready. Once baked, cool in the pans for 10 minutes before transferring to wire racks to cool completely.

What to Serve with Easy Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping

As you prepare to enjoy this delightful holiday bread, consider pairing it with comforting sides that complete your festive spread.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Their buttery richness contrasts beautifully with the sweet bread, creating a delightful balance for your holiday gathering.
Cinnamon-Spiced Apples: Warm, spiced apples add a fruity sweetness that complements the bread’s eggnog flavors, enhancing the seasonal vibe.
Eggnog French Toast Bake: For a delightful brunch, serve this eggnog-infused dish alongside your bread for a festive touch that guests will love.
Hot Chocolate: A rich cup of homemade hot chocolate brings a nostalgic warmth to the table, making it a perfect match for the sweet bread.
Fresh Fruit Salad: Bright, juicy fruits like strawberries and mandarin oranges provide a refreshing contrast, while adding a splash of color to your holiday feast.
Maple-Glazed Bacon: The salty sweetness of this bacon harmonizes beautifully with the bread, bringing a savory note that rounds out the meal.
Vanilla Bean Ice Cream: For dessert, a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream drizzled with caramel sauce can elevate your eggnog bread into an irresistible treat.
Herbal Tea: A soothing cup of herbal tea, like chamomile or peppermint, offers a calming finish to your meal, encouraging relaxation after a hearty holiday feast.

Make Ahead Options

These Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the batter and place it into the mini loaf pans up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the prepared pans with plastic wrap and refrigerate to keep them fresh. For the crumb topping, mix the ingredients, store them in an airtight container, and refrigerate for the same timeframe. When you’re ready to bake, sprinkle the crumb topping over the batter, then pop them into the oven. This allows you to enjoy the delightful aroma of freshly baked bread without the last-minute rush, making your holiday season even more enjoyable!

Storage Tips for Vanilla Eggnog Bread

Room Temperature: Store your Vanilla Eggnog Bread in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap for up to 3 days. This keeps it fresh and moist.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the bread, where it will stay good for up to a week. Just be sure to wrap it well to prevent drying.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the bread by wrapping it in plastic wrap and then aluminum foil. It can last up to 3 months, making it a great make-ahead delight!

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to bring back its fresh, warm flavor.

Helpful Tricks for Vanilla Eggnog Bread

Perfect Temperature: Ensure your butter, eggs, and eggnog are at room temperature. This helps create a smooth, well-incorporated batter for your Vanilla Eggnog Bread.

Gentle Mixing: Avoid overmixing after adding the dry ingredients; it can lead to a dense loaf. Mix until just combined for that light, fluffy texture.

Crumb Topping Consistency: Your crumb topping should have a sandy, pea-sized texture. If the butter is too soft, it may absorb into the mixture instead of forming the desired crunchy layer.

Even Baking: Distribute the batter evenly in the mini loaf pans and smooth the tops. This step promotes even baking, enhancing the overall presentation and texture of your bread.

Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to check for doneness at the 35-minute mark to avoid overbaking, which can dry out your Vanilla Eggnog Bread and diminish its rich flavors.

Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Variations

Feel free to explore these delightful variations to make this bread truly yours, infusing every bite with your personal touch!

Non-Dairy Option: Substitute almond or oat milk eggnog for a delicious dairy-free version without losing any of the festive flavor.
Add Sweet Surprises: Mix in a handful of chocolate chips or bright dried cranberries for a fruity, sweet twist that contrasts beautifully with the spiced bread.
Nutty Addition: Stir in chopped walnuts or pecans into the batter for added texture and a nutty flavor that harmonizes with the holiday spices.
Citrus Zing: Grate a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter for a fresh, zesty kick that complements the eggnog beautifully.
Spiced Up: Incorporate a pinch of cloves or allspice for added warmth and depth, enhancing the ghostly aroma of classic holiday spices.
Extra Crunch: Top the crumb with sliced almonds or chopped pecans for an even crunchier topping that adds a delightful contrast to the soft bread beneath.
Seasoned Sweetness: experiment by replacing regular sugar with brown sugar for a deeper, caramel-like sweetness that pairs perfectly with the eggnog flavor.
Syrupy Drizzle: Once cooled, drizzle a simple glaze made of powdered sugar and eggnog over the finished loaves for an extra layer of sweetness and a lovely finish.

These variations bring a new personality to your Vanilla Eggnog Bread, ensuring every bite is as cozy and charming as the last! And while you’re at it, why not try serving it alongside some warm Honey Butter Cornbread or pairing it with a steaming cup of coffee for that perfect holiday breakfast?

Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe FAQs

What type of eggnog should I use?
You can use store-bought or homemade eggnog for this recipe. Just ensure it’s well-chilled before mixing. I often go for a rich, creamy option, and if you prefer, almond or oat milk eggnog works as a non-dairy choice!

How should I store the Vanilla Eggnog Bread?
Wrap your Vanilla Eggnog Bread tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it, where it will keep for up to a week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Remember to wrap it well to maintain moisture.

Can I freeze this bread?
Absolutely! To freeze your Vanilla Eggnog Bread, wrap it in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight, and for a warm treat, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.

What can I do if my bread is too dense?
If your Vanilla Eggnog Bread turns out dense, it might be due to overmixing the batter after adding the flour. To avoid this, mix until just combined and remember, a few lumps are perfectly fine! Also, using room temperature ingredients helps create a lighter texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! Be mindful of your dietary needs. You can easily make this recipe gluten-free by substituting the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free alternative. Also, if you’re avoiding dairy, use non-dairy eggnog, and skip the rum extract for a safer option for kids or those avoiding alcohol.