Name: Cozy Up with Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding Delight
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 75 min
Ingredients: 12 slices Brioche bread (cut into 1-inch cubes); 1 cup Milk (opt for whole milk for richness); 1 cup Eggnog (room temperature); 1 tsp Vanilla extract (no substitution needed); 1/2 tsp Ground nutmeg (freshly grated for better flavor); 1 1/2 tbsp Salted butter (can use unsalted butter with a pinch of salt); 5 tbsp Cinnamon (1 tsp for custard + 4 tbsp for swirl); 4 large Eggs (room temperature); 1 cup Brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup Granulated sugar (for eggnog sauce); 1 tsp Cornstarch (for thickening the eggnog sauce); 1/4 cup Granulated sugar (to enhance sweetness); 1 tsp Cornstarch (thickens the sauce); 1 cup Eggnog (good quality for best flavor)

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The aroma of warm cinnamon and sweet eggnog wafting through the kitchen can instantly transport you to those cozy holiday gatherings we all cherish. Today, I’m excited to share my Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding, the ultimate comfort food that turns everyday leftover bread into a festive masterpiece. With just a few simple ingredients, this dish not only whips up quickly, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings, but it’s also a scrumptious way to indulge your taste buds. Imagine serving up a warm, gooey slice drizzled with homemade eggnog sauce, paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream — can you think of a better treat? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s bound to become a staple at your holiday table!

Why is this bread pudding a must-try?

Comfort Food Redefined: This Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding elevates the traditional dessert experience by combining rich eggnog flavors with the delightfully soft texture of brioche.

Quick & Easy: Using leftover bread, this recipe is a time-saver, making it perfect for busy holiday gatherings.

Irresistible Aroma: The warm scent of cinnamon and nutmeg fills your kitchen, creating an inviting atmosphere that draws everyone in.

Versatile Variations: Feel free to swap in challah or even use your favorite bread for a unique twist! There’s also room for adding chocolate chips or dried fruits.

Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for family and friends, this dish offers a comforting slice of joy that everyone will want to enjoy, especially when topped with your choice of ice cream or whipped cream.

For more delightful recipes, why not check out my Cookie Butter Cinnamon rolls or try your hand at delicious Cream Cheese Bread?

Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding Ingredients

For the Bread Pudding
• Brioche bread – 12 thick-cut slices or rolls, cut into 1-inch cubes; this serves as the delightful base for your pudding. Feel free to substitute with challah or quality white sandwich bread if needed.
• Milk – 1 cup; adds creaminess to the custard. Opt for whole milk for a richer texture.
• Eggnog – 1 cup, room temperature; provides warmth and festive flavor. Make sure it’s at room temperature for better blending with other ingredients.
• Vanilla extract – 1 tsp; enhances the overall sweetness and aroma. No substitution needed for best flavor.
• Ground nutmeg – 1/2 tsp; adds a warm spice note. Freshly grated nutmeg can elevate the flavor even further.
• Salted butter – 1 1/2 tbsp; contributes richness to the pudding. You can adjust with unsalted butter if preferred; just add a pinch of salt.
• Cinnamon – 1 tsp for custard + 4 tbsp for swirl; a key flavor component. Stick to the specified amount to maintain balance.
• Eggs – 4, room temperature; forms the custard base. Ensure they are at room temperature to prevent curdling.
• Brown sugar – 1 cup, packed; sweetens the cinnamon swirl. Can be substituted with granulated sugar in a pinch.
• Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup; used for the eggnog sauce. No substitution required for its function.
• Cornstarch – 1 tsp; serves as a thickener for the eggnog sauce. You can swap with flour, though the results may vary a bit.

For the Eggnog Sauce
• Granulated sugar – 1/4 cup; enhances the sweetness of the sauce. Necessary for achieving the right balance in flavor.
• Cornstarch – 1 tsp; thickens the sauce for a perfect pourable consistency. Consider using flour as a substitute if you’re in a bind.
• Eggnog – 1 cup; the main flavoring for the sauce. Ensure it’s good quality to bring warmth to this dessert.

This Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding is sure to become a cherished recipe, ideal for holiday gatherings or a cozy family brunch. Let’s get cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, prepare a greased 9-inch baking pan, lining the bottom with parchment paper to ensure easy removal of the finished Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard
In a medium saucepan over medium-low heat, combine the milk, eggnog, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, butter, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Stir gently until everything is well mixed and warmed through, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly before incorporating the eggs one at a time, whisking gently to avoid curdling.

Step 3: Make the Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate medium bowl, combine the brown sugar and the remaining 4 tablespoons of cinnamon. Mix well until the ingredients are evenly blended, creating a delightful cinnamon sugar mixture for your bread pudding swirl. Set this aside as it will add sweetness and flavor between the layers of bread.

Step 4: Layer the Bread and Sugar
Take the prepared baking pan and layer one-third of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom. Next, sprinkle one-third of the cinnamon sugar mixture over the bread cubes. Repeat this layering process two more times, finishing with a final layer of bread cubes on top. This will create a delicious cinnamon swirl effect throughout your pudding.

Step 5: Add the Custard
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread cubes, ensuring that each layer is well soaked. Gently press down on the top layer of bread with a spatula to help it absorb the custard. Reserve a small amount of the remaining cinnamon sugar mixture to sprinkle on top before baking, enhancing the final texture and flavor of your Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding.

Step 6: Let it Rest and Bake
Allow the assembled pudding to rest for 10-15 minutes to let the flavors meld. Then, place the baking pan in the preheated oven and bake for 35-45 minutes. The pudding is done when it’s golden brown on top and slightly wobbly in the center, creating that perfectly creamy custard texture.

Step 7: Prepare the Eggnog Sauce
While the pudding is baking, make the eggnog sauce. In a small saucepan over medium heat, whisk together the granulated sugar, cornstarch, and eggnog. Cook this mixture, stirring continuously until it thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Once thickened, gradually whisk in a tempered egg mixture (from resting eggs) until smooth.

Step 8: Serve the Pudding
Once baked, allow the Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding to cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it warm and drizzle generously with the prepared eggnog sauce. Optional: add a scoop of vanilla ice cream or whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat that perfectly complements this festive dessert.

Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding Variations

Feel free to add your personal touch to this delightful dessert and explore these enticing twists!

Bread Type: Substitute brioche with challah or even leftover French bread for a unique spin that still retains that comforting base. Each variation brings its own flavor nuances, promising to delight your taste buds.
Dried Fruits: Add in some raisins or cranberries for a burst of fruity flavor and lovely texture. Their tartness beautifully complements the sweetness of the pudding.
Chocolate Kick: Mix in chocolate chips for a decadent twist that will satisfy any dessert lover. Pairing chocolate with eggnog creates a deliciously rich experience.
Nutty Addition: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for an added crunch. The nutty flavor pairs wonderfully with the creamy custard.
Richer Custard: For a creamier pudding, swap half the milk for heavy cream. The result is an indulgently rich dessert that’s perfect for special occasions.
Caramel Drizzle: Enhance your eggnog sauce by adding a swirl of caramel for a heavenly sweet finish. This contrast adds another layer of flavor that guests will adore.
Spicy Upgrade: Boost the warmth by including ground ginger or allspice for an added kick of flavor. This twist will envelop your senses with an enticing aroma.

If you’re in the mood for more deliciousness from your kitchen, check out my Alfredo Garlic Bread recipe or try something fun with my Cookie Butter Cinnamon rolls!

How to Store and Freeze Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding

Fridge: Keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to maintain freshness. Make sure it’s in an airtight container or tightly wrapped to prevent drying out.

Freezer: If you want to enjoy your cinnamon swirl eggnog bread pudding later, freeze it for up to 2 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in foil for best results.

Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm in the microwave or oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15-20 minutes.

Serving Tip: This pudding is delightful when served warm, so consider adding a drizzle of our eggnog sauce on top right before serving!

Expert Tips for Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding

Choose Your Bread Wisely: Use slightly stale brioche for best results—fresh bread can lead to a mushy texture. If needed, toast the cubes lightly for added firmness.
Layer Evenly: When layering the bread and sugar, be meticulous. This ensures each bite has a perfect distribution of flavors, making your cinnamon swirl eggnog bread pudding truly irresistible.
Custard Consistency: Allow the custard to cool slightly before adding eggs to avoid scrambling. Room temperature eggs integrate better, ensuring a smooth, creamy pudding.
Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven; your pudding should be golden and slightly jiggly in the center. Overbaking can result in a dry custard, so watch for that perfect wobble!
Serving Temperature: Let the pudding rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.

What to Serve with Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding

Indulge in the magic of a holiday feast, where comforting aromas fill the air and every bite brings warmth to your heart.

Creamy Vanilla Ice Cream: The cool, creamy richness provides a delightful contrast to the warm, soft bread pudding, enhancing the festive experience.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this classic topping adds just the right amount of sweetness, making each slice feel extra special.
Fresh Berries: Add a burst of color and tartness, balancing the sweetness of the pudding with a refreshing pop that brightens up the dish.
Warm Spiced Apple Cider: The warm spices harmonize beautifully with the cinnamon in the pudding, creating an inviting drink perfect for chilly days.
Gingerbread Cookies: Serve alongside for a holiday classic; their rich spices complement the pudding’s flavors, creating a nostalgic treat that everyone loves.
Nutty Coffee: A cup of black coffee with nutty undertones pairs wonderfully, cutting through the sweetness and enhancing the heartwarming feel of the meal.

As the comforting flavors come together, each of these pairings will elevate your Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding experience, turning it into a cherished moment around the table.

Make Ahead Options

These Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding preparations are perfect for making ahead of time to simplify your holiday gatherings! You can prepare the entire assembled pudding up to 24 hours in advance by following the layering instructions and covering it tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Additionally, you can pre-make the custard and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply pour the custard over the bread, sprinkle the reserved cinnamon sugar on top, and bake according to the recipe instructions. This way, you’ll enjoy a deliciously warm dessert with minimal last-minute effort during your festive celebrations!

Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

What kind of bread is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! The best bread to use for Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding is brioche, as its rich and soft texture creates a delightful custard. However, challah or quality white sandwich bread can also work well. Just ensure it’s slightly stale, or you can lightly toast the cubes to avoid an overly mushy pudding.

How should I store the bread pudding after baking?
Very! After it cools, cover your Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Using an airtight container or tightly wrapping it will keep it fresh and moist, avoiding any dryness.

Can I freeze the bread pudding for later?
Absolutely! You can freeze your bread pudding for up to 2 months. Wrap it well in plastic wrap, then in foil for protection against freezer burn. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

What if the pudding is too dry after baking?
Very! If the pudding turns out dry, it could be due to overbaking. Always check for a slight jiggle in the center when baking. To remedy dryness, try serving it with the eggnog sauce or a drizzle of heavy cream; this will add moisture and enhance flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for people with allergies?
Indeed! This Sweet Cinnamon Swirl Eggnog Bread Pudding contains eggs and dairy, which may not be suitable for those with lactose intolerance or egg allergies. You can experiment with egg substitutes like flax eggs or use a non-dairy milk alternative. Just be sure to adjust the proportions accordingly for best results. Always check ingredient labels if you’re concerned about allergens, especially with ready-made eggnog.