There are certain flavors that instantly signal the holidays, and eggnog is at the top of that list. Rich, creamy, spiced, and nostalgic, eggnog transforms everyday recipes into something festive and comforting. This Sweet Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping captures everything we love about the season in one tender, bakery-style loaf.

Moist and softly spiced with nutmeg and cinnamon, this eggnog quick bread is crowned with a buttery crumb topping that adds irresistible texture. Whether served warm for breakfast, sliced for an afternoon coffee break, or plated as a simple holiday dessert, this loaf feels special without being complicated.

Unlike yeast breads, this recipe is a true quick bread—no rising time, no kneading, just mix, pour, and bake. The eggnog does double duty here, adding both moisture and that unmistakable holiday flavor. Paired with brown sugar crumble, every slice is cozy, fragrant, and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Bread

Holiday flavor without effort – Eggnog provides built-in spice and richness
Perfect crumb – Moist, tender, and never dense
Buttery crumb topping – Adds texture and bakery appeal
Versatile – Great for breakfast, brunch, dessert, or gifting
Freezer-friendly – Bake ahead for stress-free holidays

This recipe has quickly become a favorite for Christmas morning, winter brunches, and cozy snow-day baking.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Eggnog Bread

All-purpose flour
Baking powder
Baking soda
Salt
Ground nutmeg
Ground cinnamon
Unsalted butter, softened
Granulated sugar
Brown sugar
Eggs
Vanilla extract
Eggnog

For the Crumb Topping

All-purpose flour
Brown sugar
Ground cinnamon
Ground nutmeg
Unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and line a standard loaf pan with parchment paper.
In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
In a large mixing bowl, cream the butter, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until light and fluffy.
Beat in the eggs one at a time, then add vanilla extract.
Gradually add the dry ingredients, alternating with eggnog, mixing just until combined.
Pour the batter evenly into the prepared loaf pan.
In a small bowl, mix crumb topping ingredients until large crumbs form.
Sprinkle the crumb topping generously over the batter.
Bake for 50–60 minutes, tenting loosely with foil if the top browns too quickly.
Cool in the pan for 15 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.

Pro Tips for Perfect Eggnog Bread

Use full-fat eggnog for the richest flavor
Don’t overmix – Stir just until combined
Check doneness with a toothpick inserted into the center
Let it cool – The crumb sets as it cools

Variations to Try

Glazed Eggnog Bread – Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze
Nutty Crumb Topping – Add chopped pecans or walnuts
Spiced Rum Version – Replace 1 tablespoon eggnog with rum extract
Mini Loaves – Perfect for gifting

Serving Suggestions

Warm slices with butter
Paired with coffee or chai
Dusted with powdered sugar for brunch
Served alongside fresh fruit

Storing and Freezing

Store at room temperature for 3 days
Refrigerate up to 5 days
Freeze slices up to 2 months

A Little Holiday Baking History

Eggnog dates back to 18th-century Britain and became a festive staple in American holiday traditions. Baking with eggnog is a modern twist that captures that same indulgent spirit—comforting, celebratory, and meant to be shared.

Final Thoughts

This Sweet Eggnog Bread with Crumb Topping is the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with warmth and nostalgia. It’s simple enough for everyday baking but special enough for the holidays, making it a must-have in your seasonal recipe collection.