Eggnog Fruit Bread

Festive Delight – Indulge in the Warmth of the Season with Eggnog Fruit Bread

As the holiday season unfolds, embrace the joy of baking with our Eggnog Fruit Bread. This delightful creation is a symphony of festive flavors, blending the richness of eggnog with the sweetness of candied cherries and raisins. Whether you’re welcoming guests or seeking a cozy treat for yourself, this bread promises a slice of warmth and nostalgia. Join us on a journey through the steps of crafting this holiday gem, and let the aroma of eggnog-spiced bliss fill your kitchen.

Ingredients:

Produce:

  • 1/2 cup Candied cherries, red and green
  • 1/2 cup Raisins

Refrigerated:

  • 2 Eggs

Baking & Spices:

  • 2 1/4 cups All-purpose flour
  • 2 tsp Baking powder
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 3/4 cup White sugar

Nuts & Seeds:

  • 1/2 cup Pecans

Dairy:

  • 1/4 cup Butter

Beer, Wine & Liquor:

  • 1 cup Eggnog

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit Mixture

  1. Soak the Fruits:
    • In a small bowl, combine the candied cherries and raisins. Pour a few tablespoons of eggnog over the fruits, allowing them to soak and absorb the rich flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Batter

  1. Preheat and Prepare:
    • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a loaf pan.
  2. Combine Dry Ingredients:
    • In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all-purpose flour, baking powder, and salt.
  3. Cream Butter and Sugar:
    • In another bowl, cream together softened butter and white sugar until light and fluffy.
  4. Incorporate Eggs:
    • Add eggs to the butter-sugar mixture one at a time, beating well after each addition.
  5. Alternate Mixing:
    • Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with eggnog. Mix until just combined.
  6. Fold in Fruits and Nuts:
    • Gently fold in the soaked fruit mixture and chopped pecans, distributing them evenly throughout the batter.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

  1. Fill the Loaf Pan:
    • Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring it is spread evenly.
  2. Bake in the Oven:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 60-70 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  3. Cool and Slice:
    • Allow the Eggnog Fruit Bread to cool in the pan for 10 minutes before transferring it to a wire rack to cool completely. Once cooled, slice and savor the festive goodness.

Cook Notes and Variations:

  • Citrus Zest Infusion: Add a burst of freshness by incorporating a teaspoon of orange or lemon zest into the batter.
  • Spice Upgrade: Enhance the holiday spice profile by adding a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon to the batter.
  • Glaze Glamour: Drizzle a simple glaze made with powdered sugar and eggnog over the cooled bread for an extra layer of sweetness.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

For the Keto Enthusiasts:

  • Substitute almond flour for all-purpose flour.
  • Use a low-carb sweetener in place of white sugar.

Low-Carb Adjustment:

  • Choose a low-carb eggnog option or make your own using unsweetened almond milk and keto-friendly sweeteners.
  • Replace raisins with chopped sugar-free dried fruit for a lower carb content.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Q33: Can I use store-bought candied fruits?

  • Absolutely! Feel free to use pre-made candied fruits to save time.

Q34: Can I make muffins instead of a loaf?

  • Certainly! Adjust the baking time to around 20-25 minutes for muffins.

Q35: Can I freeze the Eggnog Fruit Bread?

  • Yes, you can freeze slices in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw and enjoy as needed.

Q36: Can I use a different type of nut?

  • Of course! Walnuts or almonds make excellent substitutes for pecans.

In conclusion, the Eggnog Fruit Bread is a testament to the enchanting flavors of the holiday season. From the festive medley of candied cherries and raisins to the creamy richness of eggnog, each bite is a celebration of warmth and tradition. Whether shared with loved ones or savored in solitude, this bread encapsulates the essence of holiday joy. As the aroma wafts through your home, let it be a reminder of the magical moments that come with the season. Your kitchen has become a haven of festive delights, and the Eggnog Fruit Bread is the star of the show. Here’s to a slice of holiday happiness!