CHRISTMAS EGGNOG BREAD

Ingredients:

For the bread:

• 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
• 2 tsp baking powder
• 1/2 tsp baking soda
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 2 large eggs
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 cup eggnog
• 1/4 cup rum or bourbon (optional)
• 1/4 cup milk

For the eggnog glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2-3 tbsp eggnog
• 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium-sized mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg. Set this dry mixture aside.
3. In a separate large bowl, cream the softened butter and granulated sugar until it becomes light and fluffy. This will take a few minutes.
4. Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet ingredients, alternating with the eggnog. Start and finish with the dry mixture. Mix until just combined.
6. If you choose to use rum or bourbon, add it to the batter and mix until combined.
7. Pour in the milk and mix until the batter is smooth and well blended.
8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, and smooth the top.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 45-55 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
10. Allow the bread to cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then remove it from the pan and let it cool completely on a wire rack.
11. While the bread is cooling, you can prepare the eggnog glaze. In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, eggnog, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until it reaches a drizzling consistency.
12. Once the bread has cooled, drizzle the eggnog glaze over the top. You can sprinkle a little extra nutmeg on top for added flavor and decoration.
13. Slice and serve your Christmas eggnog bread, and enjoy this festive and flavorful holiday treat!

This bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a sweet treat with a warm cup of coffee or tea during the holiday season.