Eggnog Bread Pudding

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 8
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

Eggnog Bread Pudding is a delightful twist on the traditional holiday drink, transforming it into a cozy dessert that’s perfect for gatherings. This recipe combines the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog with the comforting texture of bread pudding, topped with a luscious bourbon caramel sauce.

Ingredients for Eggnog Bread Pudding

Brioche bread serves as the base of this pudding, providing a tender, buttery texture that absorbs the flavors beautifully. Eggnog adds that signature holiday spice and creaminess, making each bite rich and indulgent. Eggs help bind the pudding together, while granulated sugar enhances the natural sweetness. Vanilla extract brings a warm, aromatic note that complements the spices. Speaking of spices, cinnamon and nutmeg are essential for that classic holiday flavor profile. Raisins add little pockets of sweetness, and unsalted butter ensures a golden, crisp top. The heavy cream and brown sugar come together with bourbon to create a decadent caramel sauce that takes this dessert to the next level.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use day-old brioche for best results — it absorbs the eggnog mixture more effectively.
  • If your bread is fresh, try toasting the cubes lightly before combining them with the wet ingredients.
  • Feel free to adjust the bourbon in the sauce to taste, or omit it entirely if preferred.

Serving Suggestions

Eggnog Bread Pudding pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. For a truly decadent experience, serve it warm and let the ice cream melt slightly into the pudding. A sprinkle of powdered sugar on top can add a touch of elegance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this recipe without alcohol?
Yes, simply omit the bourbon from the caramel sauce. It will still be deliciously rich and flavorful.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Challah or a sturdy white bread would work well if brioche isn’t available.

Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, take a moment to grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter. This prevents sticking and adds a nice flavor to the edges.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Make sure everything is well combined and smooth. Gradually add the eggnog, whisking continuously to ensure a uniform mixture.

Now, gently fold in the brioche cubes and raisins, making sure each piece gets a good soak in the eggnog mixture. This is where all the flavor gets absorbed into the bread, so take your time.

Transfer the soaked bread mixture into your prepared baking dish. Drizzle the melted butter over the top, ensuring you cover as much surface as possible. This step is key for achieving a golden brown top.

Place the baking dish in your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top is golden and the center is set but still a bit soft.

While the pudding is baking, prepare the bourbon caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine the heavy cream, brown sugar, and bourbon. Stir this mixture until the sugar has fully dissolved and the sauce is smooth. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.

Once the bread pudding is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Pour the warm bourbon caramel sauce over the top right before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Transforms classic holiday eggnog into a comforting dessert.
  • Easy to prepare with simple, festive ingredients.
  • Bourbon caramel sauce adds a rich, indulgent finish.
  • Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

8 cups brioche bread, cubed
3 cups eggnog
4 eggs
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
1/4 cup raisins
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup bourbon

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Add the eggnog to the egg mixture, whisking continuously.
4. Gently fold in the brioche cubes and raisins, ensuring all pieces are coated with the eggnog mixture.
5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and drizzle with melted butter.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. While the pudding is baking, prepare the bourbon caramel sauce. In a saucepan over medium heat, combine heavy cream, brown sugar, and bourbon. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
8. Allow the sauce to simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.
9. Once the bread pudding is done, pour the warm bourbon caramel sauce over the top before serving.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!