We love how eggnog brings a festive twist to classic banana bread making it the perfect holiday treat. Originating from seasonal traditions our recipe combines creamy eggnog with ripe bananas for a moist flavorful loaf that’s sure to delight.
This easy bake captures the warmth of spices and the comfort of home baking so you can enjoy a slice with coffee or share it at gatherings. We’re excited to share our take on this cozy favorite that’s become a staple in our kitchen.
Ingredients
In our Eggnog Banana Bread recipe, we blend creamy eggnog with ripe bananas to create a moist, spiced loaf that’s perfect for holiday baking. Below, we’ve listed the ingredients in the order they’re typically used, from wet to dry components, with prep specifics noted for accuracy and ease.
- Ripe bananas: 3 medium bananas (about 1 cup mashed) – ensure they are very ripe with brown spots for natural sweetness and easy mashing.
- Eggnog: 1 cup full-fat eggnog – chilled, as it adds a creamy texture and festive flavor.
- Eggs: 2 large eggs – at room temperature to help incorporate air and ensure even baking.
- Unsalted butter: ½ cup (1 stick, melted) – melted and cooled slightly to bind the wet ingredients without cooking the eggs.
- Granulated sugar: 1 cup – for balanced sweetness that complements the bananas and eggnog.
- All-purpose flour: 2 cups – sifted to avoid lumps and promote a light crumb.
- Baking soda: 1 teaspoon – for leavening and achieving a tender rise.
- Baking powder: ½ teaspoon – to enhance lift alongside baking soda.
- Ground nutmeg: ½ teaspoon – freshly ground if possible, to echo the spices in eggnog.
- Ground cinnamon: 1 teaspoon – for warm, aromatic notes that tie the loaf together.
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon – pure extract for authentic flavor enhancement.
- Salt: ½ teaspoon – to balance sweetness and heighten overall taste.
- Optional add-ins: ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans – toasted for extra crunch, if desired.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our ingredients, we’re excited to guide you through creating this moist and flavorful Eggnog Banana Bread. Let’s turn those simple components into a holiday favorite that’s perfect for sharing.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start mixing, we ensure everything is prepped for smooth baking. Begin by mashing 3 ripe bananas in a large bowl until they form a smooth puree—we aim for about 1 1/2 cups to deliver that natural sweetness and moisture. Next, measure and combine the dry ingredients: sift together 2 cups of all-purpose flour, 1 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/2 teaspoon of baking powder, 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg in a separate bowl for even distribution. Set aside the 1/2 cup of unsalted butter to soften at room temperature, and crack 2 large eggs into a small dish for easy addition. This preparation step sets the stage for a batter that’s richly spiced and effortlessly blended.
Mix the Batter
With ingredients ready, we dive into mixing to create a batter that’s creamy and aromatic. In a large mixing bowl, cream the softened butter with 1 cup of granulated sugar using a hand mixer on medium speed for about 2 minutes until light and fluffy—these flavors will form the base of our bread’s tender crumb. Add the 2 eggs one at a time, beating well after each to incorporate air for a lighter texture, then stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and the mashed bananas until fully combined. Slowly pour in 1/2 cup of full-fat eggnog, mixing on low speed to avoid splatters, which infuses a creamy, festive richness. Finally, gently fold in the dry ingredients using a spatula until just combined—overmixing can make the bread tough, so stop when you see no flour streaks. At this point, the batter should have a thick, velvety consistency with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg that promise a warm, comforting aroma as it bakes.
Bake the Bread
Now we transfer that perfectly mixed batter to the oven for baking. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan with butter or non-stick spray to ensure easy release. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula for an even rise, and if desired, sprinkle in optional add-ins like 1/2 cup of chopped walnuts for added crunch. Bake in the center of the oven for 50-60 minutes—use a toothpick inserted into the center to check for doneness; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs. As the bread bakes, the kitchen fills with the irresistible scent of spiced eggnog and bananas, creating that cozy holiday vibe we love.
Cool and Serve
Once baked, we let the bread cool to enhance its flavors and texture. Remove the pan from the oven and let it rest on a wire rack for 10 minutes to allow the loaf to set—rushing this step might cause it to crumble. Carefully invert the bread onto the rack to cool completely for about 1 hour, during which the moist interior firms up slightly while retaining its soft, eggnog-infused goodness. Slice into thick pieces and serve warm, perhaps with a dollop of whipped cream or a hot cup of coffee, to savor the blend of spiced banana flavors that make this bread a festive standout.
Make-Ahead and Storage
To keep Eggnog Banana Bread fresh and flavorful, we offer practical tips for preparing it in advance and storing it properly. This ensures you can enjoy its moist, spiced crumb and creamy notes whenever the holiday spirit strikes.
Making Ahead
We love making Eggnog Banana Bread ahead of time to simplify holiday baking. Prepare the batter up to 24 hours in advance by following the mixing steps, then cover and refrigerate it in an airtight container. When ready to bake, let the batter sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes to ensure even rising, then proceed with greasing the pan and baking as directed. For optimal results, you can also bake the entire loaf ahead and freeze it—wrap the cooled bread tightly in plastic wrap followed by aluminum foil to lock in its warm, nutmeg-infused aroma.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage helps preserve the bread’s tender texture and rich eggnog flavor. Below, we break down the best methods based on duration:
- Room Temperature: Store the cooled loaf in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic wrap at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps it soft and ready for quick slices, perfect for pairing with your morning coffee.
- Refrigeration: For longer freshness, refrigerate the bread in an airtight container for up to 1 week. We advise slicing it first if you plan to grab pieces on the go, as this prevents the loaf from drying out and maintains its creamy banana essence.
- Freezing: Freezing is ideal for extending shelf life. Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing its holiday charm.
To help you track storage times effectively, here’s a quick reference table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Tips for Best Results |
|---|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Up to 3 days | Keep in a cool, dry spot away from direct sunlight to retain moisture. |
| Refrigeration | Up to 1 week | Thaw in the fridge overnight for even texture before serving. |
| Freezing | Up to 3 months | Defrost at room temperature for 1-2 hours; reheat in a 350°F oven for 10 minutes to refresh the spices. |
When reheating, we suggest warming slices in a 350°F oven for 5-10 minutes to revive the comforting blend of cinnamon and eggnog flavors, making it taste freshly baked every time.
Conclusion
We’ve loved creating this eggnog banana bread and know it’ll warm your holidays too
It’s a simple way to add festive flair to your baking routine
Try it once and you’ll see why it’s become our go-to treat
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Eggnog Banana Bread?
Eggnog Banana Bread is a festive twist on classic banana bread, incorporating creamy eggnog for a holiday flavor. It combines ripe bananas with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, creating a moist, comforting loaf perfect for seasonal gatherings or enjoying with coffee.
What ingredients are needed for Eggnog Banana Bread?
You’ll need ripe bananas, full-fat eggnog, eggs, unsalted butter, granulated sugar, all-purpose flour, baking soda, baking powder, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt. Optional add-ins include chopped walnuts or pecans. Prepare ingredients in advance for smooth baking.
How do I make Eggnog Banana Bread?
Start by preheating your oven and mashing bananas. Cream butter and sugar, then mix in eggs, vanilla, bananas, and eggnog. Combine with sifted dry ingredients to form batter. Pour into a greased loaf pan and bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean. Cool before slicing.
Can I prepare Eggnog Banana Bread in advance?
Yes, you can make the batter up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate it, or bake the loaf and store it. For longer storage, freeze the baked bread for up to 3 months. This makes it ideal for holiday planning without last-minute hassle.
How should I store Eggnog Banana Bread?
Store at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days, refrigerate for up to 1 week, or freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen bread in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven for the best texture and flavor.
What are some tips for the best Eggnog Banana Bread?
Use overripe bananas for extra moisture and sweetness. Don’t overmix the batter to keep the loaf tender. Add nuts or chocolate chips for variety. Let it cool completely before slicing to avoid crumbling, and pair with whipped cream for a festive touch.
Is Eggnog Banana Bread suitable for holidays?
Absolutely! Its warm spices and eggnog flavor make it a perfect holiday treat for family gatherings or gifts. It’s easy to bake and share, adding a cozy vibe to your celebrations while embracing seasonal tastes.