Name: Decadent Eggnog Pound Cake to Sweeten Your Holidays
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 70 min
Total time: 95 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Unsalted Butter (at room temperature); 2 cups Granulated Sugar; 4 Large Eggs (at room temperature); 3 cups All-Purpose Flour (can substitute with cake flour); 1 tbsp Baking Powder; 1 tsp Salt; 1 cup Full-Fat Eggnog; 1 tbsp Vanilla Extract; 1 tsp Freshly Grated Nutmeg (preferred over pre-ground); 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon; 1 tsp Rum Extract (optional); 2 cups Powdered Sugar; 3 tbsp Eggnog (for glaze)

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The scent of nutmeg and cinnamon wafting through the kitchen transports me back to family gatherings where laughter dances through the air like twinkling lights. This Eggnog Pound Cake captures that festive spirit, turning leftover holiday eggnog into a luscious dessert that’s as comforting as it is delicious. With its soft, buttery crumb and a drizzle of sweet glaze, this cake is the perfect addition to any celebration, whether you’re hosting a holiday party or indulging in a cozy evening at home. Plus, it’s a breeze to whip up—ideal for both seasoned bakers and kitchen newcomers alike. Are you ready to bring a slice of holiday magic to your table? Let’s dive into this delightful recipe!

Why is Eggnog Pound Cake a Must-Try?

Irresistible Flavor: This cake is a delightful blend of cozy spices and rich eggnog, evoking the essence of holiday cheer.

Effortlessly Simple: Perfect for both experienced bakers and novices, this recipe requires minimal steps and pantry staples.

Versatile Treat: Enjoy it as a dessert or a festive breakfast alongside your morning coffee, making it suitable for any occasion.

Impressive Presentation: With its glazed top and buttery crumb, this cake is sure to impress guests at holiday gatherings.

Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare it a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen—just like a good Cabernet!

Delicious Leftover Solution: Transform that leftover eggnog into something extraordinary, ensuring nothing goes to waste.

By making this Eggnog Pound Cake, you’ll be savoring a slice of holiday tradition and comfort, just like with my Moist Strawberry Shortcake or even a cozy Blueberry Coffee Cake.

Eggnog Pound Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

Unsalted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; make sure it’s at room temperature for the best texture.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and helps create that tender crumb everyone loves.
Large Eggs – Essential for structure and moisture; ensure they are at room temperature for better mixing.
All-Purpose Flour – Forms the cake’s base structure; can be swapped with cake flour for an even lighter texture.
Baking Powder – Provides a slight lift for that perfect cake fluffiness.
Salt – Enhances the flavors and balances the sweetness, ensuring every bite is delicious.
Full-Fat Eggnog – The star of our recipe; brings that classic holiday flavor and moisture to the cake.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth to the flavor profile of your Eggnog Pound Cake.
Freshly Grated Nutmeg – Offers authentic holiday aroma and taste; always better than pre-ground for this recipe.
Ground Cinnamon – Brings warmth and pairs beautifully with nutmeg for that cozy festive taste.
Rum Extract (optional) – Elevates the flavor complexity, perfect for non-alcoholic eggnog lovers.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Creates a sweet glaze that adds visual appeal and sweetness atop the cake.
Eggnog (for glaze) – Used to achieve the perfect consistency for your delightful glaze.

This Eggnog Pound Cake is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Eggnog Pound Cake

Step 1: Prep Ingredients
Begin by gathering all your ingredients, ensuring that the unsalted butter, eggs, and eggnog are at room temperature for the best texture. This step is crucial for the eggnog pound cake’s buttery crumb. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and greasing a loaf pan with butter or cooking spray while you work will help prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, beat the room-temperature unsalted butter and granulated sugar together using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue beating for about 5-7 minutes until the mixture is light and fluffy, signifying that air has been incorporated, which is essential for achieving a tender cake.

Step 3: Add Eggs
Crack in the large eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This will ensure that your eggnog pound cake has a uniform texture and structure. Take your time with this step—an even blend of eggs is vital, so continue mixing until fully incorporated.

Step 4: Mix Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, freshly grated nutmeg, and ground cinnamon. This step prevents clumping and ensures an even distribution of the leavening agent and spices within the eggnog pound cake. Set this mixture aside while you combine the wet ingredients.

Step 5: Combine Mixtures
Gradually add the dry mixture to your wet ingredients, folding them in gently with a spatula until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to a denser cake. The batter should be smooth with a few small lumps remaining, which is perfect for your eggnog pound cake.

Step 6: Bake
Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 65-70 minutes. Keep an eye out for a golden-brown top and a toothpick inserted into the center that comes out clean, indicating that your eggnog pound cake is baked to perfection.

Step 7: Cool
Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. Carefully transfer the cake to a wire rack to cool completely; this will help maintain the cake’s fluffy texture without becoming soggy.

Step 8: Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a few tablespoons of eggnog until smooth and drizzle-worthy. Once the cake has completely cooled, drizzle the glaze generously over the top, adding a sweet touch that enhances the festive flavor of your eggnog pound cake.

Eggnog Pound Cake Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to put your own spin on this delightful cake and elevate its flavor and texture!

Cake Flour: Swap all-purpose flour with cake flour for an ultra-light and tender crumb that melts in your mouth.
Spice It Up: Add an extra pinch of cinnamon or a hint of ginger for a warm, spiced variation that captures the essence of the season.
Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins to introduce a sweet and chewy element that complements the cake’s softness.
Nutty Crunch: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture, creating a lovely contrast to the soft cake.
Zesty Twist: A handful of orange or lemon zest brightens up the flavors, giving your eggnog pound cake a refreshing twist.
Rum vs. Non-Alcoholic: For those preferring not to cook with alcohol, use extra vanilla or almond extract instead of rum extract, preserving the flavor complexity.
Chocolate Drizzle: For chocolate lovers, drizzle melted chocolate over the glaze for a decadent touch that pairs wonderfully with the festive flavors.
Middle Layer: Before baking, layer some cream cheese frosting in the middle of the batter for a delightful surprise with each bite.

These variations not only enhance the Eggnog Pound Cake but allow you to create a personalized dessert perfect for any holiday gathering. If you’re interested in more delightful recipes, don’t miss my Mini Cheesecakes New that may also make a charming addition to your celebration!

How to Store and Freeze Eggnog Pound Cake

Room Temperature: Store the eggnog pound cake in an airtight container for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to develop while keeping it moist.

Fridge: If you prefer, you can refrigerate the cake to extend its freshness, but be aware that it may slightly dry out. Consume within 5 days.

Freezer: For long-term storage, wrap the cooled eggnog pound cake tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw the cake in the fridge overnight. Reheat slices in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to revive its original tenderness.

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog Pound Cake preparations make it easy for busy home cooks to whip up a festive dessert without stress! You can prepare the batter and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Simply mix all the ingredients, cover tightly, and store in the fridge; this allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you prefer, bake the cake ahead of time and store it at room temperature, wrapped in plastic wrap, for up to 3 days. For the best quality, allow the cake to cool completely before wrapping, and avoid any condensation. When ready to serve, simply glaze the cake, and you’ll have a delightful treat that’s just as delicious as if it were freshly made!

What to Serve with Eggnog Pound Cake

Looking to create a festive spread that pairs beautifully with your Eggnog Pound Cake?

Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop complements the cake’s richness while adding a creamy texture. Perfect for a holiday touch!
Hot Coffee or Spiced Tea: Their warm, cozy flavors enhance the spices in the cake, making your dessert experience even more festive.
Cranberry Sauce: The tartness balances the sweetness of the pound cake, providing a delightful contrast that awakens your taste buds.
Vanilla Ice Cream: The creamy coldness against the warm cake creates a delightful interplay—customize with cinnamon sprinkles for flair!
Fresh Fruit Salad: A medley of bright, juicy fruits adds freshness and a burst of flavor, lightening the indulgence of the pound cake.
Eggnog Latte: Keep the theme going by sipping on a creamy eggnog latte, enhancing the holiday spirit with every sip.

Each of these pairings enriches the Eggnog Pound Cake experience, allowing you to create lasting memories around the table with loved ones this holiday season!

Expert Tips for Eggnog Pound Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Ensure all ingredients like butter, eggs, and eggnog are at room temperature for improved mixing and texture, yielding a perfect eggnog pound cake.
Avoid Overmixing: Mix the batter until just combined to prevent a dense, tough cake. The goal is a light, fluffy crumb, so be gentle!
Check Doneness Wisely: Do not open the oven door for at least 45 minutes to avoid collapsing. A toothpick inserted should come out clean when the cake is ready.
Use Quality Eggnog: For the best flavor and texture, use a high-quality eggnog. If making homemade, ensure it mimics the thickness of store-bought versions for consistency.
Cool Completely Before Glazing: Let your cake cool completely on a wire rack before adding the glaze. This prevents the glaze from melting away and ensures it sticks beautifully.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze up to 3 months to enjoy later!

Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best eggnog for my pound cake?
Absolutely! For the best results, opt for high-quality full-fat eggnog. Look for brands with a rich consistency and a good balance of spices. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also try making your own homemade eggnog, ensuring it mimics the thickness and flavor of store-bought versions.

How should I store leftover Eggnog Pound Cake?
You can store the eggnog pound cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 4 days. For longer freshness, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the freezer, where it can last for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight.

Can I freeze Eggnog Pound Cake and how?
Absolutely! To freeze your eggnog pound cake, first allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil, to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped cake in an airtight container or freezer bag. It will retain its flavors for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and enjoy!

What should I do if my cake is too dense?
If your eggnog pound cake turns out denser than expected, it might be due to overmixing the batter or using cold ingredients. Always make sure all your ingredients are at room temperature and mix just until combined. If you find the cake dense after baking, serving it with a drizzle of warm glaze or whipped cream can enhance the experience!

Is Eggnog Pound Cake safe for pets?
No, it’s best not to share eggnog pound cake with pets. The ingredients like sugar, nutmeg, and alcohol (if used) can be harmful to pets. Always keep baked goods meant for human consumption away from your furry friends!

Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can make a gluten-free version of the eggnog pound cake! Simply swap out the all-purpose flour with a 1:1 gluten-free baking flour. Ensure also to check that your baking powder and any other ingredients are gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination. Happy baking!