Eggnog cake is a fun twist on that old holiday drink, it turns rich creamy eggnog into a moist tasty dessert. This cake’s really popular around the holidays when families and friends get together. The flavors of eggnog—vanilla, nutmeg and a little sweetness—come together in a way that’s familiar yet new, and it kinda captures the holiday mood perfectly.
The special thing about eggnog cake is not just how good it tastes but how easy it is to make it your own. You can serve it as the main event at a holiday party and it brings back warm memories for everyone. With that hint of nutmeg and the creamy feel you get from the eggnog, each bite feels like a cozy hug. Eat it by itself or with a hot drink, eggnog cake is sure to become a new family fave, inviting you all to enjoy the season a little bit longer.
What is Eggnog Cake?
Eggnog cake comes from that classic holiday drink called eggnog—a creamy mix of milk or cream, sugar, eggs and spices like nutmeg and vanilla. When Christmas time rolls around, people decided to turn that drink into a dessert so they could keep that cozy feeling on the table. It makes sense since the same flavors work great in a soft, moist cake.
Once it’s baked, eggnog cake has a fluffy but rich texture all at once. You taste the warmth from the nutmeg, the sweet vibes of sugar, and the smooth creaminess from the eggnog itself. Every forkful is like a little holiday party in your mouth, reminding you of old traditions and happy get-togethers. With its tender crumbs and welcoming smell, eggnog cake has earned its spot as a must-have during the festive season.
Flavor Profile
Eggnog cake’s taste is a mix of the main ingredients that scream “holiday.” Nutmeg is the star, giving a warm spicy note just like the drink. Then comes vanilla adding a gentle sweet depth. And the eggnog’s creaminess ties it all together, making the cake super moist and smooth.
Sometimes eggnog cakes are a bit dense but still tender, which makes them great for stacking in layers or eating all by itself. The combo of these flavors doesn’t just please your taste buds, it also fills the air with that homey baking smell that you only get at Christmas time. All together, taste and texture make eggnog cake more than a dessert—it’s kinda like the center of holiday celebrations.
Why Make Eggnog Cake?
Eggnog cake is like a party in a pan, perfect for holiday dinners and Christmas parties. Its creamy taste and that comforting smell make it a go-to dessert when friends and family come over. Traditional eggnog flavors remind people of warm times and old memories.
Plus, eggnog cake is super flexible so you can mix it up any way you like. You could top it with buttercream, swirl on some cream cheese frosting, or just do a simple sugar glaze. If you need to, there are versions for different diets too—gluten-free, vegan, you name it—so nobody has to miss out on this tasty treat.
Ingredients for Eggnog Cake
Essential Ingredients
To bake a rich moist eggnog cake, you’ll need:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1½ cups eggnog
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Add-ins
For a few fun twists try adding:
- Chocolate chips for extra chocolatey goodness
- Dried cranberries for a tart pop
- Chopped pecans or walnuts for some crunch
Choosing Quality Ingredients
Good ingredients make a better cake. Pick a creamy eggnog—one that tastes rich—to give the cake its flavor and moisture. Fresh ground nutmeg is also key, it has a stronger smell and taste than the old stuff in the back of your spice rack.
Detailed Eggnog Cake Recipe
Ingredients
Here’s exactly what you need for the cake and optional frosting:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1½ cups eggnog
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup unsalted butter, room temperature
- 3 large eggs
- 2 teaspoon baking powder
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Optional Frosting
- 1 cup heavy whipping cream
- 2 tablespoon powdered sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease and flour two 9-inch round cake pans.
- In a big bowl, cream the butter and sugar till it’s light and fluffy.
- Add eggs one by one, mixing well after each.
- In another bowl whisk flour, baking powder, nutmeg and salt.
- Slowly add the dry mix into the butter mix, alternating with eggnog.
- Divide batter into pans and bake 25–30 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
- Let cakes cool in pans 10 minutes then take out to cool fully.
- Whip cream with powdered sugar and vanilla, then frost the cooled cake.
Baking Tips
Make sure everything is at room temperature so the batter is smooth. Keep the cake in an airtight container at room temp up to three days, or refrigerate it if you need it to last longer. To freeze, wrap it tight in plastic then foil so it won’t get freezer burn.
Variations on Eggnog Cake
Eggnog Bundt Cake
Use a bundt pan instead of normal cake pans for a pretty ring shape. A sweet glaze drizzled on top makes it look extra fancy.
Eggnog Cupcakes
For small treats, bake eggnog cupcakes. They’re great for parties and you can top each with eggnog frosting or colorful sprinkles.
Vegan and Gluten-Free Options
You can still enjoy eggnog cake if you’re vegan or gluten free. Swap eggs for flax eggs, use almond or coconut milk for eggnog, and pick a gluten-free flour mix. Everyone gets to have some cake.
Pairing Suggestions
Beverages
Serve eggnog cake with drinks that match the flavors. A hot spiced coffee or cozy tea works great. You can even pair it with mulled cider or an eggnog latte for extra holiday feels.
Desserts
Make a dessert table by adding fresh berries or a light lemon sorbet. The tartness helps cut through the cake’s richness, giving guests a nice balance.
Storing and Freezing Eggnog Cake
Refrigeration
To keep it fresh, stick the cake in the fridge in an airtight container or wrap it in plastic. It stays good for up to a week when chilled.
Freezing Instructions
If you want some later, freeze it right. Wrap the cooled cake tight in plastic wrap and then foil. When you’re ready, thaw it in the fridge overnight so it stays moist and tasty.
FAQs
What is the best eggnog for baking?
Pick an eggnog that’s creamy and full of flavor, whether it’s store-bought or homemade. The richer it is, the better your cake will taste.
Can I make eggnog cake ahead of time?
Yes, you can bake it one or two days before you need it. Just let it cool, wrap it up and store until party time.
How long will eggnog cake last?
Stored in the fridge, it lasts about a week. If frozen properly, it’s good for up to three months. Always check it for freshness before serving.
Is eggnog cake safe for everyone?
Most people can enjoy it, but if you’re allergic to eggs or worried about alcohol in some store-bought eggnog, look for special recipes. You can always adapt for allergies or alcohol-free versions.
Conclusion
Eggnog cake is a great way to spice up your holiday traditions with its rich flavors and festive feel in each bite. We’d love to hear how you make it your own, so please share your twists and enjoy baking this yummy treat. Happy holidays and happy baking!
eggnog cake
Equipment
- 1 9x13 inch baking pan
- 2 mixing bowls
- 1 electric mixer or whisk
- 1 measuring cups
- 1 measuring spoons
- 1 rubber spatula
- 1 toothpick for testing doneness
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1.5 cups granulated sugar
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened
- 1 cup eggnog
- 3 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1.5 teaspoons baking powder
- 0.5 teaspoon baking soda
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 cup unsalted butter softened (for frosting)
- 2 cups powdered sugar
- 4 tablespoons eggnog for frosting
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease the 9x13 inch baking pan with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Add the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Mix in the vanilla extract and eggnog until well combined.
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, ground nutmeg, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined. Avoid over-mixing.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and spread it evenly.
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes, then transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely.
- For the frosting, beat the softened butter in a mixing bowl until smooth. Gradually add in the powdered sugar and pour in the eggnog until the desired consistency is reached.
- Once the cake has cooled completely, spread the eggnog frosting evenly over the top. Sprinkle ground nutmeg on top for garnish.
- For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of rum to the batter or frosting.
- This cake can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator; just frost it before serving.
- Serve with a sprinkle of extra nutmeg or cinnamon for added festive flair.
