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Let me share my absolute favorite holiday recipe that fills my home with the coziest memories. This Eggnog Bread Pudding started in my grandmother's kitchen and has become our family's most treasured Christmas morning tradition. The way the rich eggnog custard transforms simple bread into something magical just makes the holidays feel extra special.
Why It's Pure Holiday Magic
The best part about this recipe is how simple it is to make but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. In just 15 minutes of prep time you've got something truly special coming together. I love making this when friends stop by during the holidays their faces light up the moment that sweet spicy aroma fills the air.
What You'll Need
- Bread: Day-old brioche is my secret weapon here it soaks up all that goodness perfectly.
- Eggnog: Get the good stuff it really makes a difference.
- Eggs: These make our custard rich and velvety.
- Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg bring those warm holiday vibes.
- Vanilla: Just a splash makes everything better.
- Eggnog Sauce: This takes it from delicious to absolutely incredible.
Creating The Custard
First let's mix up our custard base. I blend sugar with those cozy spices then whisk in our eggs and eggnog until everything's smooth and silky. This mixture is what transforms ordinary bread into something extraordinary. The smell alone takes me right back to my grandmother's kitchen.
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Getting It Together
Once your custard's ready spread your bread cubes in a buttered baking dish. Pour that gorgeous custard all over making sure every piece gets some love. I like to gently press everything down so the bread can soak up all that richness.
The Waiting Game
Now comes the hard part waiting. Cover everything up and let it rest for 30 minutes. This gives the bread time to drink in all that custard goodness. Then into a 350°F oven it goes. I uncover it for the last 10 minutes to get that perfect golden top.
Time To Serve
When it comes out all puffed and golden dust it with powdered sugar and drizzle with warm eggnog sauce. Sometimes I add a dollop of whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. During the holidays I love using eggnog ice cream it's absolutely dreamy.
Mix It Up
Sometimes I toss in dried cranberries or pecans for extra texture. During Christmas I'll use peppermint eggnog for something special. My kids love when I add chocolate chips they melt into little pockets of happiness throughout.
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My Best Tips
Always use slightly stale bread it soaks up the custard so much better. Let everything rest after baking too it helps the custard set perfectly. These little tricks make such a difference in the final result.
Make Life Easier
Want to get ahead? Put everything together the night before cover it well and pop it in the fridge. In the morning just let it come to room temperature while your oven heats up. Perfect for busy holiday mornings.
Keeping It Fresh
Leftovers keep beautifully in the fridge for a few days. Just warm them up gently in the oven or microwave. You can even freeze portions for later they reheat wonderfully. Though in my house leftovers rarely last that long.
Why We Love This So Much
There's something about this bread pudding that just feels like the holidays. Maybe it's the warm spices or how it brings everyone to the table with happy smiles. Whatever it is it's become our favorite way to make holiday mornings extra special.
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Common Questions About Cooking
- → What's the best bread to use?
Stale challah or brioche bread works best. The bread should be at least a day old, or you can dry fresh bread in the oven for 10-14 minutes.
- → Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate. Let it come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.
- → How do I know when it's done?
The pudding should be golden brown and puffed, and a knife inserted in the center should come out clean. This usually takes 45-55 minutes.
- → Can I use store-bought eggnog?
Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly. Just make sure it's at room temperature before mixing with other ingredients.
- → How should I serve this?
Let it stand for 20-30 minutes after baking, then serve with rum sauce, vanilla sauce, ice cream, or whipped cream. A dusting of powdered sugar adds a nice touch.