As the holiday season rolls around, we find ourselves yearning for the cozy aromas and comforting flavors that define this festive time. Our Eggnog Fruit Bread is a delightful creation that seamlessly blends the rich, creamy essence of eggnog with the sweetness of dried fruits. Picture slices of moist, tender bread adorned with jewel-like dried fruits, each bite offering a harmonious balance of holiday cheer. Join us on a culinary journey as we unravel the secrets behind this festive treat, explore variations, and address your FAQs. Let’s embark on the joyous adventure of baking and savoring Eggnog Fruit Bread.
Ingredients
For the Eggnog Fruit Bread:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup mixed dried fruits (raisins, cranberries, and chopped dates)
- 1/2 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans), optional
For the Eggnog Glaze:
- 1 cup powdered sugar
- 2-3 tablespoons eggnog
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Ground nutmeg for sprinkling
Instructions
Crafting the Eggnog Fruit Bread:
- Preheat and Prepare:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
- Mix Dry Ingredients:
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Combine Wet Ingredients:
- In another bowl, whisk together eggnog, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
- Create Batter:
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined. Avoid overmixing.
- Fold in Fruits and Nuts:
- Gently fold in the mixed dried fruits and nuts into the batter.
- Fill the Loaf Pan:
- Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly.
- Bake to Perfection:
- Bake in the preheated oven for 55-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Cooling:
- Allow the bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely.
Preparing the Eggnog Glaze:
- Whisk Together Ingredients:
- In a bowl, whisk together powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract until smooth.
- Glazing the Bread:
- Once the bread is completely cool, drizzle the eggnog glaze over the top. Sprinkle with ground nutmeg for an extra festive touch.
Cook’s Notes
- Enhanced Flavor Tip: For an extra burst of flavor, soak the mixed dried fruits in a few tablespoons of rum or brandy for an hour before incorporating them into the batter.
- Storage Recommendation: Store the Eggnog Fruit Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze slices individually.
Variations
Rum-Kissed Indulgence:
- Add a tablespoon of rum or brandy to the batter for a subtle, boozy undertone.
Citrus Infusion:
- Grate orange or lemon zest into the batter to infuse a citrusy brightness.
Keto Versions
Almond Flour Alchemy:
- Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour and use a low-carb sweetener for a keto-friendly alternative.
Coconut Flour Wonder:
- Experiment with coconut flour for a low-carb adaptation with a hint of coconut flavor.
Low-Carb Versions
Zucchini Moisture:
- Incorporate shredded zucchini into the batter for added moisture without compromising the low-carb aspect.
Monk Fruit Magic:
- Replace granulated sugar with monk fruit sweetener for a low-carb, keto-friendly option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use store-bought eggnog?
A: Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this recipe. Choose a good-quality eggnog for enhanced flavor.
Q: Can I make this bread ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! The flavors tend to deepen over time, making it an ideal make-ahead treat. Store it well-wrapped and glazed just before serving.
Q: Can I omit the nuts?
A: Certainly! The nuts are optional and can be omitted if you have nut allergies or simply prefer a nut-free version.
Q: Can I use only one type of dried fruit?
A: Yes, you can customize the mix of dried fruits according to your preference. Try using only raisins or cranberries for a specific flavor profile.
Eggnog Fruit Bread is more than a baked treat; it’s a festive embodiment of warmth and holiday joy. The aromatic blend of spices, the richness of eggnog, and the sweetness of dried fruits come together in perfect harmony, creating a bread that’s not only delicious but also a reflection of the season’s spirit. Whether you follow the classic recipe, explore variations, or opt for keto and low-carb adaptations, this bread is sure to become a centerpiece of your holiday baking traditions. Share it with loved ones, gift it to friends, and revel in the joy of creating something special during the most wonderful time of the year. May your holidays be filled with the delightful aroma and scrumptious taste of Eggnog Fruit Bread.
