Recipe: Festive Eggnog Bread (for Bread Machine) ๐๐
Description: This Festive Eggnog Bread is a delightful treat perfect for winter evenings or Christmas gatherings. With hints of nutmeg and the richness of eggnog, it’s sure to become a seasonal favorite. I love to serve it with sweetened cream cheese, adding an extra touch of indulgence to each slice. Please note that the cooking time provided is approximate and represents the typical duration of a bread machine’s full cycle.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3 hours
Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes
Yield: 1 loaf
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 1 1/4 cups | All-purpose flour |
| 3/4 cup | Sugar |
| 2 tsp | Salt |
| 3/4 cup | Eggnog |
| 1/2 cup | Unsalted butter, softened |
| 1/4 tsp | Ground nutmeg |
| 1 | Egg |
| 2 tsp | Active dry yeast |
| 1/2 cup | Dried cherries (optional) |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 1971
- Fat: 44.1g
- Saturated Fat: 24.1g
- Cholesterol: 356mg
- Sodium: 2086.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 334.3g
- Fiber: 11.4g
- Sugar: 37.6g
- Protein: 54.1g
Instructions:
- Place all ingredients except cherries in the bread machine pan in the order listed.
- Select the normal white 1 1/2 lb cycle on your bread machine.
- If your bread machine has an audible signal for adding ingredients like fruit or nuts, add the dried cherries at that time. Otherwise, consult your bread machine’s manual for guidance on when to incorporate additional ingredients during the cycle.
Tips for Serving: This Festive Eggnog Bread pairs wonderfully with a variety of toppings. Spread slices with sweetened cream cheese for a decadent treat, or enjoy it toasted with a pat of butter for a simple yet satisfying snack. For an extra festive touch, dust slices with powdered sugar or drizzle with a glaze made from eggnog and confectioners’ sugar. Serve alongside a steaming mug of hot cocoa or mulled cider for the ultimate winter indulgence.
Storage: To keep your Festive Eggnog Bread fresh, store it in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 1 month. Simply thaw slices at room temperature or reheat them in the toaster or microwave before serving.
Variations: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add a handful of chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for added crunch and flavor. For a boozy twist, substitute a portion of the eggnog with rum or bourbon for a deliciously spirited loaf. You can also experiment with different dried fruits, such as cranberries or raisins, to create your own unique flavor combinations.
Conclusion: Whether you’re looking for a festive treat to enjoy during the holidays or simply craving a cozy slice of homemade bread, this Festive Eggnog Bread is sure to delight your taste buds. With its warm spices and rich eggnog flavor, it’s the perfect addition to any winter menu. Plus, with the convenience of a bread machine, you can whip up a loaf with minimal effort and maximum deliciousness. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of freshly baked bread fill your kitchen with holiday cheer!
