Name: Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-492062H40M15S
Total time: PT-492062H40M15S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour; 2 1/2 tsp baking powder; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg; 1/4 tsp allspice; 2 large eggs (room temperature); 1 cup eggnog (classic, cinnamon, or vanilla); 3/4 cup sugar; 1/2 cup butter (melted); 2 tsp vanilla extract; 2 tsp rum extract (or substitute with rum, brandy, or whiskey)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 53 reviews

If you adore the cozy flavors of holiday traditions, then the Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe is about to become your new favorite treat. These moist, warmly spiced mini cakes capture the essence of eggnog in every bite, combining notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a hint of rum extract that make them utterly irresistible. Perfect for sharing at festive gatherings or enjoying with a cup of tea by the fire, these delightful mini loaves bring a splash of holiday cheer to your kitchen any time of the year.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A clear glass bowl sits in the center on a white marbled surface, filled with a light, powdery white flour mixture, with a metal whisk that has a light wooden handle resting inside. Around the bowl, there are small white bowls and glass containers holding different ingredients: melted yellow butter, dark brown vanilla extract, and a small amount of clear liquid. At the top right, a white bowl contains granulated white sugar and another glass holds a creamy liquid, next to two whole white eggs. Everything is arranged on a red and white striped cloth that lies partially under the bowls and glasses. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that work in perfect harmony. Each item contributes something special, from the aromatic spices to the creamy richness of eggnog, ensuring every bite bursts with flavor, tender crumb, and just the right hint of sweetness.

2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives structure while keeping the loaves soft and tender.
2 1/2 tsp baking powder: Provides the perfect lift, making these mini loaves delightfully fluffy.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the sweetness beautifully.
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds a warm spice that’s quintessential in holiday baking.
1/2 tsp ground nutmeg: Brings that classic nutmeg flavor that pairs wonderfully with eggnog.
1/4 tsp allspice: Elevates the spice profile with its complex, comforting aroma.
2 large eggs (room temperature): Bind everything together while adding richness.
1 cup eggnog: The star of the show delivering creamy flavor and moisture.
3/4 cup sugar: Sweetens the loaves just enough without overpowering.
1/2 cup melted butter: Adds richness and keeps the texture tender and moist.
2 tsp vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with a sweet, fragrant depth.
2 tsp rum extract: Or substitute with a splash of rum, brandy, or whiskey for an authentic touch.

How to Make Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms up, generously grease four mini loaf pans or a single large loaf pan to prevent sticking. This sets the stage for perfectly shaped loaves that slide right out when baked.

Step 2: Mix the Dry Ingredients

In a large bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice. This combination creates a beautifully spiced foundation that will infuse the loaves with warmth and flavor.

Step 3: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs with the eggnog, sugar, melted butter, vanilla extract, and rum extract. Be sure your eggs are at room temperature to create a smooth, cohesive batter. This mixture is where all the delicious richness begins to build.

Step 4: Gently Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry and fold them together carefully. Avoid over-mixing here; you want just enough blending to combine everything without developing too much gluten, which keeps the loaves tender and fluffy.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter evenly into your prepared pans. Bake the mini loaves for about 30 minutes, or the large loaf for roughly 50 minutes. Use a toothpick inserted in the center to check for doneness — it should come out clean or with just a few crumbs attached.

Step 6: Cool and Enjoy

Let the loaves cool in the pans for 2 to 3 minutes before carefully removing them. You can enjoy these warm, soaking in their aromatic goodness, or let them cool completely to slice and savor later. Either way, you’re in for a treat!

How to Serve Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe

Four small rectangular light golden brown cakes with soft crumb texture are arranged casually on a white and red striped cloth that covers a corner of a white marbled surface. Two slices of one cake are placed near the top right, showing a soft, dotted interior. There are some green leaves peeking from the side, adding a touch of natural color. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance each mini loaf with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light drizzle of vanilla glaze to add an extra shimmer of sweetness. For a festive touch, sprinkle some crushed toasted nuts or cinnamon sugar on top right after glazing to impress every guest instantly.

Side Dishes

These loaves pair wonderfully with a creamy cup of spiced chai, a robust coffee, or a comforting mug of hot cocoa. If serving as part of a brunch spread, consider offering fresh fruit or a whipped cream topping to complement the rich flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Try wrapping individual mini loaves in clear cellophane tied with a festive ribbon as charming gifts. You can also stack them on a cake stand surrounded by seasonal decor like pine cones or holly to make your holiday table extra inviting, turning the Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe into a centerpiece worth sharing.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store your leftover mini loaves in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. This keeps them moist and flavorful so you can enjoy that fresh-from-the-oven goodness day after day.

Freezing

If you want to keep these treats longer, wrap each mini loaf tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They freeze beautifully for up to 2 months, making it easy to have a slice of holiday spirit anytime.

Reheating

To bring your mini loaves back to life, simply warm them in a preheated oven at 300°F (150°C) for about 10 minutes or pop them in the microwave for 20-30 seconds. This step refreshes the softness and revives the enticing aroma of eggnog spices.

FAQs

Can I use a substitute for eggnog in this recipe?

Yes! If you don’t have eggnog on hand, you can substitute with a mixture of milk and heavy cream with a bit of vanilla and a pinch of nutmeg for a similar flavor and texture.

What type of pan works best for mini loaves?

Greased metal or silicone mini loaf pans work best for even baking and easy release. Make sure to grease them well to prevent sticking and maintain the beautiful shape of your loaves.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely. Use a dairy-free eggnog alternative and substitute butter with a plant-based margarine or coconut oil. This way, you can still enjoy the festive flavor while accommodating dietary needs.

How do I know when the loaves are done baking?

Insert a toothpick into the center of the loaf. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached, your loaves are perfectly baked and ready to come out of the oven.

Can I add other flavors to the Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe?

Yes, feel free to add mix-ins like chopped nuts, dried cranberries, or even white chocolate chips for a fun twist. Just fold them in gently with the wet and dry ingredients to keep the texture just right.

Final Thoughts

There is nothing quite like the warm, indulgent flavors of this Eggnog Mini Loaves Recipe to brighten up your baking lineup. Whether it’s a holiday treat or a cozy everyday indulgence, these mini loaves deliver bliss in every bite. I just know you’ll love how simple ingredients come together to create something truly special — so grab your mixing bowls, and let the baking magic begin!