Cranberry Eggnog Bread

This Cranberry Eggnog Bread is a delightful holiday treat, perfect for festive gatherings or cozy family breakfasts. With its rich flavor and moist texture, this bread brings the spirit of the season right into your kitchen. The combination of fresh cranberries and creamy eggnog creates a unique taste that is sure to impress. Plus, the white chocolate glaze adds an irresistible touch. Make it for Christmas parties, brunch, or simply to enjoy at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare – This recipe requires minimal effort and uses common kitchen ingredients.
• Festive Flavor – The combination of cranberries, eggnog, and orange zest creates a seasonal delight.
• Versatile – Enjoy it as a dessert, breakfast treat, or gift for friends and family.
• Gorgeous Presentation – The white chocolate drizzle makes this bread visually stunning.
• Moist and Tender – The use of eggnog keeps the bread soft and delicious.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start baking your Cranberry Eggnog Bread, gather your tools and equipment for an efficient cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Whisk
• Loaf pan
• Rubber spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls – Essential for combining wet and dry ingredients without mixing them in the wrong order.
• Loaf pan – Ensures even baking; a must-have for creating the perfect shape for your bread.
• Rubber spatula – Helps fold in ingredients gently, preserving the airiness of your batter.

Ingredients

This white chocolate glazed cranberry Christmas eggnog bread is a must-make holiday recipe!

For the Bread

• 1/3 cup olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 cup brown sugar (plus more for topping)
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1 1/4 teaspoons baking soda
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup fresh cranberries
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons orange zest

For the Glaze

• 1/2 cup white chocolate chips (melted)

How to Make Cranberry Eggnog Bread

Step 1: Cream Together Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, cream together the oil, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, orange zest, and eggnog until well combined.

Step 2: Mix Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the salt, baking soda, and flour until evenly mixed.

Step 3: Combine Mixtures

Add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients. Beat well until everything is thoroughly combined.

Step 4: Fold in Cranberries

Gently fold in the fresh cranberries using a rubber spatula to avoid breaking them.

Step 5: Prepare Pan

Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray. Pour in the batter evenly.

Step 6: Add Toppings

Sprinkle additional brown sugar on top of the batter. Garnish with a few more fresh cranberries for decoration.

Step 7: Bake

Bake the Cranberry Eggnog Bread at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 55-60 minutes. A toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean when done.

Step 8: Cool Down

Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 5-10 minutes. Then transfer it onto a cooling rack to cool completely for another 15-20 minutes.

Step 9: Prepare Glaze

Melt the white chocolate chips in the microwave using 20-second intervals. Stir until smooth but be careful not to burn it. Alternatively, use a double boiler method.

Step 10: Drizzle Glaze

Drizzle the melted white chocolate over the cooled cranberry bread. Place it in the refrigerator until the glaze hardens.

Step 11: Storage

Store any leftovers in the fridge. Enjoy within three days for optimal freshness!

How to Serve Cranberry Eggnog Bread

Cranberry Eggnog Bread is a delightful addition to any holiday table. Its rich flavors and festive colors make it a perfect treat for gatherings or a cozy evening at home.

With a Hot Beverage

• Coffee or Tea: Pair your slice with a warm cup of coffee or tea for a comforting experience.
• Spiced Hot Chocolate: The sweetness of the bread complements the rich, chocolatey taste of hot cocoa perfectly.

As a Dessert

• With Whipped Cream: Add a dollop of whipped cream on top for an extra creamy treat.
• Fresh Fruit Garnish: Serve with slices of fresh orange or pears for a refreshing contrast.

For Breakfast

• Toast it Lightly: A quick toast enhances its flavors and gives it a delightful crunch.
• Spread with Butter: A thin layer of butter adds richness to each bite, making it an indulgent breakfast option.

How to Perfect Cranberry Eggnog Bread

Perfecting your Cranberry Eggnog Bread can elevate this recipe from great to extraordinary. Follow these tips to ensure your bread turns out delicious every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cranberries and high-quality eggnog will enhance the flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overmix: Mix just until combined to keep the bread light and fluffy; overmixing can lead to dense bread.
• Check Doneness Early: Start checking for doneness a few minutes before the suggested baking time to avoid overbaking.
• Cool Properly: Allowing the bread to cool in the pan for just 5-10 minutes helps maintain moisture without becoming soggy.

Best Side Dishes for Cranberry Eggnog Bread

Cranberry Eggnog Bread pairs well with various side dishes that complement its festive flavors. Consider these options for a complete meal experience.

1. Creamy Mashed Potatoes: Smooth and buttery mashed potatoes provide a rich contrast to the sweet bread.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized veggies add earthy notes that balance the sweetness of the bread.
3. Green Salad: A fresh green salad with citrus dressing adds brightness and cuts through the richness.
4. Stuffed Acorn Squash: The sweet and savory filling enhances the holiday feel while providing hearty nutrition.
5. Cheese Platter: A selection of cheeses pairs wonderfully, creating a delightful snack alongside the bread.
6. Granola Yogurt Parfait: Layered yogurt with granola offers crunch and creaminess, making it great for brunch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Cranberry Eggnog Bread, avoiding common pitfalls can ensure a delightful outcome.

• Boldly skip the chilling time – Rushing the cooling process can lead to sogginess. Always allow the bread to cool before slicing.
• Boldly neglect ingredient temperature – Using cold eggs or eggnog can affect the batter’s consistency. Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for better blending.
• Boldly ignore measuring techniques – Improper measurements can ruin the balance of flavors. Use proper measuring cups and spoons for accuracy.
• Boldly overmix the batter – Overmixing can lead to a dense texture. Mix until just combined for a light, fluffy bread.
• Boldly forget about garnishing – Skipping the brown sugar topping and fresh cranberries means missing out on extra flavor and presentation. Always add these for a festive touch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cranberry Eggnog Bread in an airtight container to maintain freshness.
• It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Cranberry Eggnog Bread

• Wrap the bread tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil before freezing.
• It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating Cranberry Eggnog Bread

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread on a baking sheet and warm for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave – Heat individual slices on a microwave-safe plate for about 10-15 seconds until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Use a skillet over low heat, adding a slice of bread and covering it with a lid. Heat for a few minutes until warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some questions about

What makes Cranberry Eggnog Bread special?

Cranberry Eggnog Bread is unique due to its festive flavors, combining tart cranberries with rich eggnog, creating a perfect holiday treat.

Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen cranberries if fresh ones are not available. Just toss them in flour before adding to prevent them from sinking.

How do I customize my Cranberry Eggnog Bread?

You can add nuts like walnuts or pecans for crunch or spices like nutmeg and cinnamon for extra warmth.

Is Cranberry Eggnog Bread suitable for holiday gatherings?

Absolutely! This sweet treat not only tastes delicious but also adds a festive touch to any holiday spread.

Final Thoughts

Cranberry Eggnog Bread is an excellent addition to your holiday baking lineup. Its sweet-tart flavor profile makes it versatile enough for breakfast or dessert. Feel free to customize it with your favorite nuts or spices!