Name: Indulge in Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding Bliss
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 80 min
Ingredients: 8 large glazed donuts (cut into bite-sized pieces); 4 cups eggnog (brings creamy decadence); 4 large eggs (adds richness to custard); 1 cup whole milk (ensures a luscious texture); 3/4 cup granulated sugar (for perfect sweetness); 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (infuses warm flavor); 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds holiday warmth); 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg (adds nostalgia); 1/4 teaspoon salt (enhances flavors); 1/2 cup raisins or cranberries (for a fruity twist); whipped cream (for topping); ground cinnamon or nutmeg (to garnish)

As I sift through my pantry in search of comfort on a chilly evening, I stumble upon a forgotten stash of glazed donuts. Instantly, a spark of creativity ignites! This is where my Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding comes to life—a warm and inviting dish that transforms leftover donuts into a heavenly dessert. Not only is it a delightful crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a breeze to whip up, making it perfect for those cozy gatherings. With just a handful of ingredients like rich eggnog and fragrant spices, you’ll have a warming treat that fills your kitchen with the sweet scent of the holidays. So, are you ready to turn those donuts into something irresistibly delicious?

Why Is This Pudding So Special?

Comforting and cozy, this Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding is like a warm hug on a chilly day. Effortless to prepare, it transforms stale donuts into a rich, custardy dessert that will impress your guests. Delightfully festive, the blend of eggnog, cinnamon, and nutmeg creates a holiday flavor that’s hard to resist. Versatile enough for breakfast or dessert, it pairs beautifully with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover donuts, reducing food waste while elevating your baking game. If you're looking for more seasonal treats, check out our Holiday Dessert Roundup.

Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding Ingredients

To create this delightful dessert, gather these simple, yet essential, ingredients!

For the Pudding
• Glazed donuts – 8 large, cut into bite-sized pieces, the stars of this dish!
• Eggnog – 4 cups, brings a creamy decadence to the pudding.
• Eggs – 4 large, they add richness and structure to the custard.
• Whole milk – 1 cup, ensures a luscious texture.
• Granulated sugar – ¾ cup, for the perfect sweetness balance.
• Vanilla extract – 1 tablespoon, infuses a warm flavor.
• Ground cinnamon – 1 teaspoon, a sprinkle of holiday warmth.
• Ground nutmeg – ½ teaspoon, adds a hint of nostalgia.
• Salt – ¼ teaspoon, enhances the flavors beautifully.

For Optional Add-ins
• Raisins or cranberries – ½ cup, for a fruity twist if desired.

For Serving
• Whipped cream – for a luxurious topping that complements the pudding.
• Ground cinnamon or nutmeg – to garnish, elevating the festive flavors of your Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it warms up, grab a 9x13 inch baking dish and grease it thoroughly with cooking spray or butter to prevent the creamy eggnog donut bread pudding from sticking. This step ensures that your dessert bakes evenly and releases beautifully once done.

Step 2: Mix the Custard Base
In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 cups of eggnog, 4 large eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, ¾ cup of granulated sugar, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of ground nutmeg, and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Whisk everything together until the mixture is smooth and well-blended, creating a rich custard base that will soak into the donuts.

Step 3: Incorporate the Donuts
Once your custard base is ready, gently fold in the bite-sized pieces of the 8 large glazed donuts. Stir carefully to ensure that the donuts are thoroughly coated in the custard mixture. If you’re using raisins or cranberries for an added fruity twist, fold them in now to give your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding some delightful texture and bursts of flavor.

Step 4: Allow to Soak
Let the mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the donuts to absorb the delicious custard. This soaking time is crucial for achieving that soft, velvety texture in your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding. You’ll see the donuts swell slightly as they soak up the flavors—incredibly inviting!

Step 5: Pour into Baking Dish
After the donuts have soaked, pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish, ensuring that the donut pieces are well distributed. This step guarantees that every slice will be packed with the flavorful goodness of your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding, ready to be baked to perfection.

Step 6: Bake the Pudding
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick in the middle; it should come out clean or with just a few moist crumbs clinging to it. This visual cue lets you know that your pudding is perfectly baked.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
Once baked, carefully remove the bread pudding from the oven and allow it to cool in the dish for about 10 minutes. This slight cooling will help the creamy eggnog donut bread pudding firm up a bit, making it easier to slice and serve. The sweet aroma filling your kitchen will make patience challenging!

Step 8: Serve with Toppings
When ready to serve, dish out warm slices of your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding. Top each serving with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and don’t forget to sprinkle a little ground cinnamon or nutmeg for that festive touch. This final flourish brings out the comforting holiday flavors, making your dessert truly irresistible!

Expert Tips for Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding

Perfect Donut Choice: Use glazed donuts for the best flavor and texture. Avoid stale or dry donuts, as they won't absorb the custard well.

Soaking Time: Don't rush the soaking process! Letting the donut pieces rest in the custard for 10-15 minutes ensures a rich and creamy texture in your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding.

Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick around the 40-minute mark. If it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, your pudding is ready. Overbaking can lead to dryness.

Creative Add-ins: Explore flavors by adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts for a fun twist to your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding. Keep in mind that balance is key!

Serving Suggestions: Serve warm, topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon or nutmeg for added holiday flair that will impress your guests.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing your Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding ahead of time is a real lifesaver for busy home cooks! You can assemble the custard base and soak the donut pieces up to 24 hours in advance. Simply follow the mixing and soaking steps, then cover the dish tightly and refrigerate. This prep allows the donuts to absorb the flavors, resulting in an even more decadent dessert! When you’re ready to enjoy, just bake it from the fridge—no need to let it warm up first! For best quality, ensure it's tightly covered to maintain moisture. You'll have a show-stopping dish that's just as delicious with minimal effort when you need it most!

What to Serve with Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding

Warm, cozy, and indulgent, this dessert deserves the perfect company to elevate your meal experience.

Cinnamon Spiced Apples: Sautéed apples with cinnamon create a sweet and tart balance that's perfect alongside the creamy richness.
Vanilla Ice Cream: A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream melts beautifully on warm pudding, enhancing every bite with a cold and luscious contrast.
Coffee or Espresso: The robust flavors of a hot cup of coffee bring a delightful bitterness that complements the dessert’s sweetness marvelously.
Caramel Sauce: Drizzling warm caramel over each serving adds an extra layer of sweetness and a silky texture that will have guests swooning.
Pecan Pie Bars: These bars provide a crunchy, nutty flavor contrast that pairs well with the soft pudding; perfect for a festive dessert platter.
Chai Tea: The warming spices of chai create a harmonious blend with the flavors of eggnog and cinnamon, making for a memorable pairing experience.
Cream Cheese Frosting: A light layer of cream cheese frosting on the pudding introduces a tangy sweetness that balances the dish’s richness delightfully.
Chocolate Covered Cherries: The juiciness of cherries enveloped in chocolate adds a decadent touch, enhancing the festive feel of the meal.

How to Store and Freeze Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding

Room Temperature: Best enjoyed fresh, but if you must, keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 hours for optimal flavor and texture.

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving to revive its creamy goodness.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating: For a delightful experience, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes for best results.

Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding Variations

Feel free to make your Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding even more delightful with these fun twists and substitutes!

Dairy-Free: Swap the whole milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a rich, dairy-free version. The eggnog can also be replaced with a dairy-free alternative to keep it creamy.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free donuts to create a hearty, gluten-free dessert. The texture will still be buttery and soft, just with different ingredients.
Spice It Up: Add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a dash of chili powder for a surprising kick. This playful twist adds warmth and a unique flavor profile to your creamy pudding.
Chocolate Lovers: Fold in 1 cup of chocolate chips to the custard mixture for an indulgent, chocolatey delight. This adds richness and a wonderful surprise with every bite.
Nutty Variation: Incorporate ½ cup of chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and depth. These nuts provide a satisfying texture that perfectly complements the creamy pudding.
Fruity Surprise: Mix in 1 cup of fresh diced apples or pears for a seasonal, fruity twist. Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the spiced eggnog custard.
Caramel Drizzle: Drizzle caramel sauce over the top just before serving for an extra indulgent touch. The combination of caramel and the warm pudding is utterly irresistible!
Extra Creamy: For an ultra-creamy pudding, replace one cup of eggnog with heavy cream. This variation turns your dessert into a luscious treat that’s worth every rich bite.

Experimenting with these variations will ensure your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding remains a beloved favorite, no matter the occasion. For more delicious ideas, check out our Creative Flavor Enhancements!

Creamy Eggnog Donut Bread Pudding Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best donuts for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh glazed donuts. Ensure they are soft and moist, as stale or dry donuts won't absorb the custard well. Choose ones without dark spots or a tough exterior to ensure a fluffy result in your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding.

How should I store leftover bread pudding?
Very good question! Once cooled, store leftover creamy eggnog donut bread pudding in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat it, place a slice in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or warm it up in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes until heated through.

Can I freeze creamy eggnog donut bread pudding?
Absolutely! To freeze it, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. You can store it for up to 2 months. For best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, then warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes to restore its deliciously creamy texture.

What should I do if my bread pudding doesn't set properly?
No worries! If your creamy eggnog donut bread pudding is still runny after baking, it might need a bit more time in the oven. Make sure to check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; if it comes out clean or with a few moist crumbs, it's ready. If it's still wet, bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, checking periodically. This extra time will help firm it up beautifully.

Is this recipe pet-friendly or allergen-free?
If you're catering to pets or anyone with allergies, it’s important to note that this creamy eggnog donut bread pudding contains dairy and eggs, which aren't safe for pets. Additionally, those with egg or dairy allergies should avoid this recipe. You can explore using dairy alternatives or flax eggs for a more allergy-friendly version, though the result may differ in texture and flavor.