Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe

There is something incredibly comforting about a loaf of sweet, spiced bread that reminds you of cozy holiday mornings, and that’s exactly what the Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe delivers. This delightful recipe combines the rich, creamy flavor of eggnog with warm vanilla and a hint of nutmeg, all topped off with a buttery, cinnamon-scented crumb topping that adds the perfect crispy contrast. Whether you’re serving it as a festive breakfast or a special snack with a cup of coffee, this bread is bound to become a cherished favorite that brings warmth and happiness to any table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple yet carefully selected ingredients that come together beautifully to create a moist, flavorful bread bursting with seasonal charm. Each component adds its own magic—creamy butter for richness, eggnog for that signature festive taste, and just the right spices to make every bite memorable.

• 1/2 cup salted butter (softened): Provides a creamy base that keeps the bread tender and rich.
• 1 box (3.4 oz) instant vanilla pudding mix (dry): Adds smooth vanilla flavor and moistness for a soft crumb.
• 1/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors—sea salt works beautifully here.
• 1 tsp vanilla extract: Pure vanilla extract adds depth and warmth.
• 1 3/4 cups prepared eggnog: Creates the signature flavor and moist texture; non-dairy eggnogs work wonderfully too.
• 1/2 tsp rum extract: Adds a subtle boozy note—optional for keeping the recipe kid-friendly.
• 1 cup sugar: Sweetens the loaf nicely; try coconut sugar for a rich, caramel hint.
• 2 eggs (room temperature): Bind the ingredients and add structure to the bread.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Freshly ground nutmeg brings that classic holiday spice aroma.
• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: King Arthur flour is ideal for consistent texture.
• 2 tsp baking powder: Helps the bread rise perfectly light and fluffy.
• 1/4 cup salted butter (cold, cubed, for topping): Creates the delicious crumbly topping texture.
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon: Infuses the crumb topping with warm spice.
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour (for topping): Gives structure to the crumb topping.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg (for topping): Adds a subtle spice to the crunch.
• 1/2 cup sugar (for topping): Sweetens the crumb for a perfectly balanced finish.

How to Make Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe

Step 1: Cream the Butter, Sugar, and Pudding Mix

Start by creaming the softened butter, sugar, and dry vanilla pudding mix in a large bowl. This step is essential because it incorporates air, making the base light and fluffy, setting the tone for a tender crumb in your bread. Aim for about 3 to 4 minutes of mixing until the texture turns pale and airy.

Step 2: Incorporate the Wet Ingredients

Next, beat in the prepared eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, and optional rum extract. Combining these ingredients at this point ensures the batter is smooth and homogenous, and incorporating the eggnog gives the bread its wonderful creamy depth that really sings with flavor once baked.

Step 3: Combine the Dry Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the flour, baking powder, salt, and freshly grated nutmeg together. This even distribution of leavening agents and spices ensures that every slice has the perfect lift and warm spice throughout.

Step 4: Gently Mix Wet and Dry Ingredients

Slowly fold the dry ingredient blend into the wet batter, mixing just until combined. Overmixing can make the bread tough, so stir gently to keep the bread tender and light for that melt-in-your-mouth texture you’ll love.

Step 5: Prepare and Fill Your Loaf Pans

Grease and flour four mini loaf pans to keep the bread from sticking and then evenly distribute the batter among them. Smooth the tops to prepare for that beautiful crumb topping and even baking.

Step 6: Make the Crumb Topping

In a small bowl, use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix the cold cubed butter, flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until crumbly. This butter-rich topping will bake up crisp and golden, adding a delightful texture contrast.

Step 7: Add the Crumb Topping to the Batter

Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over each pan’s batter. Don’t be shy here—the more, the merrier when it comes to that crunchy, buttery topping that makes this bread extra special.

Step 8: Bake the Loaves

Bake the loaves in a preheated oven at 350°F for 35 to 40 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted into the center to test doneness; it should come out clean. The crumb topping should be golden and crackly, which signals a perfect bake.

Step 9: Cool Before Serving

Allow the loaves to cool in their pans for about 10 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack. Cooling completely helps the bread hold its shape and lets the crumb topping set, so every slice stays intact and ready to delight.

How to Serve Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe

Garnishes

This bread shines beautifully on its own, but adding a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of simple vanilla glaze transforms it into a showstopper. Freshly grated nutmeg sprinkled on top just before serving also elevates the aroma and flavor appeal wonderfully.

Side Dishes

Pair your slices with a steaming cup of coffee, a chai latte, or even a creamy hot chocolate for an indulgent treat. Cream cheese or mascarpone spreads work beautifully alongside it, giving you that added luxurious mouthfeel that makes mornings extra special.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive brunch, arrange the mini loaves on a platter surrounded by seasonal fruits, nuts, and a small pot of honey or spiced jam. You can even cut the bread into cubes and serve it as part of a dessert board or dipped into custard for a unique twist on bread pudding.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover slices tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. Keeping the bread sealed ensures it stays moist and fresh, ready for when you want a quick delicious bite.

Freezing

This bread freezes beautifully! Wrap individual loaves or slices in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months and still taste freshly baked when thawed properly.

Reheating

To bring your Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe back to life, warm slices gently in a toaster oven or microwave for 15 to 20 seconds. This helps revive the moist texture and brings out the aroma without drying it out.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog?

While you can substitute regular milk in a pinch, you’ll miss out on that signature eggnog flavor. To replicate it, adding extra vanilla and a pinch of nutmeg can help mimic the festive taste.

Is rum extract necessary in this recipe?

Rum extract adds a lovely depth and complexity, but it’s totally optional. Skipping it won’t harm the recipe, especially if you’re serving children or prefer to keep things alcohol-free.

What’s the best way to prevent the crumb topping from browning too quickly?

If you notice the topping getting too dark before the bread is done, tent the loaves loosely with foil halfway through baking to protect the topping while allowing the bread to finish baking.

Can I make this recipe in one large loaf pan?

Yes! You can use a standard 9×5-inch loaf pan, but expect the baking time to increase by 10-15 minutes. Keep a close eye and use a toothpick to test doneness.

How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?

Use plant-based butter alternatives and nondairy eggnog, and replace eggs with flax eggs or commercial egg replacers. The texture may vary slightly, but the flavor will still delight.

Final Thoughts

Once you try this Vanilla Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping Recipe, it’s hard to go back to ordinary quick breads. Its irresistible combination of creamy eggnog, rich vanilla, and spicy-sweet crumb topping is the perfect way to celebrate the season or anytime you crave a little comforting sweetness. Give it a go, share it with friends, and watch it disappear in no time—you’re going to love it!

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