Name: Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake to Elevate Your Holiday Cheer
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 130 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salted Butter (Can use unsalted with a pinch of salt); 1/2 cup Vegetable Oil (Can substitute melted coconut oil for flavor); 2 cups Granulated Sugar (Brown sugar can enhance flavor); 4 large Eggs (Use room temperature for better texture); 2 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract (Almond extract can be used for variation); 1 teaspoon Rum Extract (Omit for non-alcoholic version); 3 cups Cake Flour (All-purpose flour can also work); 1 tablespoon Baking Powder (Check freshness); 1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Nutmeg (Can substitute with dried nutmeg); 1 cup Eggnog (Can use store-bought or homemade); 1 cup Powdered Sugar (No substitutions recommended); 2 tablespoons Eggnog (Adjust for desired thickness)

As the scent of freshly baked goods wafts through the air, I find myself reminiscing about cozy holiday gatherings filled with laughter and cheer. One dessert that never fails to steal the spotlight is my Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake to Elevate Your Holiday Desserts. This delightful cake combines the rich, creamy flavors of eggnog and warm spices, making it the ideal centerpiece for festive moments. Plus, it boasts an easy-to-follow recipe that ensures you don’t spend hours in the kitchen—perfect for those last-minute holiday preparations. Whether you’re serving a crowd or just want a cozy treat to enjoy with a cup of coffee, this pound cake is a crowd-pleaser that even accommodates non-alcoholic options for everyone to savor. Ready to impress your loved ones with a slice of holiday magic? Let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe!

Why is Eggnog Pound Cake a Must-Bake?

Unforgettable Flavor: Each slice is infused with rich eggnog and warm spices, making it a memorable treat that captures the spirit of the holidays.

Versatile Options: Whether you want a non-alcoholic twist or wish to incorporate unique flavors like pumpkin spice, this recipe offers endless variations.

Time-Saving: With its simple steps, you can whip this cake up even on a busy holiday morning without hassle.

Perfect for Gatherings: This delicious dessert is perfect for any festive occasion, likely to impress your guests just as much as a classic Christmas Carrot Cake.

Store and Share: Bake ahead to save time, making it an ideal option for holiday meal prep; it keeps well in the fridge or freezer.

Ease of Preparation: No professional baking skills are necessary, so you can focus on creating cherished memories rather than stressing over complex techniques.

Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake Ingredients

• Create a festive treat with these essential components!

For the Batter

Salted Butter – Adds richness and moisture; unsalted butter can be used with a pinch of salt added.
Vegetable Oil – Ensures moisture and softness; melted coconut oil can be substituted for a delightful flavor twist.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the cake and provides structure; brown sugar can enhance depth of flavor.
Large Eggs – Binds ingredients and improves texture; room temperature eggs mix better for fluffiness.
Pure Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; almond extract can offer a delightful twist.
Rum Extract or Dark Rum – Infuses warm flavor; omit for a non-alcoholic option or boost with more vanilla.
Cake Flour – Creates a light and fluffy cake; all-purpose flour can work, just reduce slightly.
Baking Powder – Ensures leavening; make sure to check for freshness.
Freshly Ground Nutmeg – Adds festive spice; dried ground nutmeg can substitute if fresh is unavailable.
Eggnog – Moistens batter and enhances flavor; any store-bought or homemade eggnog works well.

For the Glaze

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens the glaze; no substitutions recommended for texture.
Eggnog (for Glaze) – Creates a smooth consistency; adjust the quantity for thickness to your preference.

Now that you have the Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake ingredients, you’re one step closer to creating a holiday masterpiece that your loved ones will cherish!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake to Elevate Your Holiday Desserts

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 325°F (163°C). Gather all your ingredients, allowing the salted butter and large eggs to come to room temperature for about 30 minutes. This will ensure they mix together more smoothly, resulting in a fluffy batter. Prepare a Bundt pan by greasing it thoroughly with baking spray or “cake goop” for easy release later.

Step 2: Cream the Butter and Sugar
In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened salted butter and granulated sugar. Using an electric mixer, cream them together on medium speed for about 5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This step is important for aerating the batter, giving your Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake a tender crumb.

Step 3: Incorporate Wet Ingredients
Next, gradually blend in the vegetable oil, ensuring it’s fully incorporated into the creamed mixture. Add the room-temperature eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Then, pour in the pure vanilla extract and rum extract (if using), stirring until everything is well combined and smooth, creating a rich batter for your cake.

Step 4: Combine the Dry Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the cake flour, baking powder, and freshly ground nutmeg. This helps to evenly distribute the leavening agent and spices throughout the flour. Gently fold this mixture into the wet ingredients in increments, alternating with the eggnog, and mix just until combined to avoid overmixing.

Step 5: Pour Batter into the Pan
Once your batter is fully blended and still slightly thick, pour it into your prepared Bundt pan. Smooth the top with a spatula for even baking. The batter should fill the pan about three-quarters full to allow for rising. This will create a beautifully domed cake once baked, perfect for your holiday gatherings.

Step 6: Bake the Cake
Place the Bundt pan in the preheated oven and bake for 80-90 minutes. Begin checking for doneness around the 75-minute mark. Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few moist crumbs, indicating your Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake is ready to come out of the oven.

Step 7: Cool Before Serving
After baking, remove the cake from the oven and let it cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows it to set and makes it easier to invert. Carefully turn the cake out onto a wire rack, allowing it to cool completely. This cooling step enhances the flavors and texture of your Eggnog Pound Cake.

Step 8: Prepare the Glaze
While the cake cools, prepare the glaze by whisking together the powdered sugar and a few tablespoons of eggnog in a small bowl. Mix until smooth, adjusting the eggnog amount to achieve your desired consistency—thicker for a more substantial glaze or thinner for a lighter drizzle.

Step 9: Glaze the Cake
Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the prepared glaze over the top, allowing it to flow down the sides. For an extra festive touch, consider sprinkling some freshly grated nutmeg on top. This adds both flavor and visual appeal, making your Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake a standout dessert for the holidays.

How to Store and Freeze Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake at room temperature for up to 3 days in an airtight container to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: Keep the cake refrigerated for up to 5 days. Ensure it’s wrapped well or in an airtight container to prevent drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and seal in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.

Reheating: To enjoy slices warm, microwave for about 15-20 seconds. This brings back that fresh-baked flavor, making your Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake irresistible!

Expert Tips for Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake

Room Temperature Ingredients: Using room temperature butter and eggs ensures a smooth batter that incorporates air effectively, promoting a fluffy texture.
Measure Flour Accurately: Spoon and level your flour instead of scooping directly from the bag. This method prevents overpacking, avoiding dryness in your cake.
Grease the Pan Well: Generously grease your Bundt pan to prevent sticking. This ensures a beautiful release, preserving the cake’s shape and texture.
Check for Doneness: Use a toothpick to test for doneness. The cake is ready when the toothpick comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs, generally at 210°F (99°C).
Glaze Consistency: Adjust the amount of eggnog in your glaze for your preferred thickness; less eggnog makes a richer drizzle, while more creates a lighter topping.
Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Add chocolate chips or nuts to make your Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake unique and tailor it to your family’s tastes.

Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake Variations

Feel free to tailor this recipe to your taste, making each bite uniquely yours while exploring delightful flavor profiles!

Non-Alcoholic: Substitute rum extract with additional vanilla extract to keep that festive flavor without the alcohol.
Chocolate Delight: Mix in chocolate chips for a surprise element that brings a rich, sweet twist.
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for satisfying texture and warmth. The added crunch creates a balance that enhances each bite.
Tropical Coconut: Incorporate shredded coconut into the batter for a delightful tropical twist. It complements the eggnog beautifully, bringing a new layer of flavor.
Pumpkin Spice: Use a pumpkin spice blend instead of nutmeg for a cozy autumn flavor. This variation is perfect for the holiday season, combining nostalgia with a fragrant touch.
Dried Cranberries: Blend in dried cranberries for a tart burst, adding both color and flavor that beautifully contrasts the sweetness.
Maple Glaze: Swap the eggnog glaze for a maple syrup drizzle for a unique sweetness that your guests will adore. The deep maple flavor beautifully harmonizes with eggnog.
Gluten-Free: Replace cake flour with a gluten-free baking mix to accommodate gluten sensitivities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy this festive dessert.

For more festive inspiration, check out my Christmas Pancakes Holiday or indulge in the sweet layers of Strawberry Cheesecake Protein to elevate your holiday baking repertoire even further!

What to Serve with Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake

To enhance your holiday experience, try these delightful pairings that will elevate the scrumptiousness of your eggnog pound cake.

Spiced Apple Cider: The warmth of spiced apple cider resonates beautifully with the flavors of the pound cake, creating a cozy, festive atmosphere. The combination feels like a hug in a mug, perfect for chilly evenings.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that contrasts with the moistness of the cake, making each bite even more delightful. You can also sprinkle a little nutmeg on top to tie it all together.
Chocolate Ganache: Rich and velvety, a drizzle of chocolate ganache brings an indulgent layer of flavor that pairs perfectly with the cake’s sweet, spiced notes. This unexpected twist will impress your guests and satisfy any chocolate lover.
Cranberry Sauce: Tart cranberry sauce cuts through the sweetness of the cake, adding a refreshing zing that balances the rich flavors, making it a delightful complement for your holiday table.
Pecans or Walnuts: Toasted nuts lend a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that contrasts against the dense cake, giving it additional depth and texture. Chopped nuts can be sprinkled on top for a gorgeous presentation.
Eggnog Latte: For coffee lovers, an eggnog latte is a match made in heaven. The creamy, spiced coffee adds a warm, cozy vibe to your dessert experience, making every bite even more divine.
Gingerbread Cookies: The spiciness of gingerbread cookies enhances the holiday spirit, offering a cheerful contrast that pairs beautifully with the creamy richness of the pound cake. Set them out for a fun dessert platter!

Incorporating these delightful accompaniments will turn your eggnog pound cake into a memorable centerpiece for your festive gatherings.

Make Ahead Options

These Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake slices are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the festive season! You can bake the cake up to 3 days in advance, storing it in an airtight container at room temperature or in the refrigerator to maintain its moist texture. For longer storage, tightly wrap the cooled cake and freeze it for up to 2 months; just remember to let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before serving. When ready to enjoy, simply prepare the glaze, drizzle it over the cake, and serve—this way, you’ll effortlessly impress your guests with a delightful holiday treat that’s just as delicious as if made fresh!

Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe FAQs

What type of eggnog should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely! You can use any store-bought or homemade eggnog. Look for one that has a rich, creamy texture and a good balance of spices, as this will enhance your cake’s overall flavor. If you make your own eggnog, you can adjust the sweetness and spices to your taste, ensuring a personalized touch to your Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake!

How can I store leftover Eggnog Pound Cake?
Very good question! Store your cake at room temperature in an airtight container for up to 3 days to keep it moist. If you want it to last longer, refrigerate it for up to 5 days. Just make sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out. If you choose to freeze it, tightly wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag, where it will keep well for up to 2 months.

Can I freeze Eggnog Pound Cake? If so, how?
Yes, you can definitely freeze your cake! First, cool the cake completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. Place the wrapped cake in a freezer-safe bag or container to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator for the best results.

What if my cake is dry?
If you find that your Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake turns out dry, it may have been overbaked or the flour was measured incorrectly. To ensure the best results, always use the spoon and level method when measuring flour to avoid packing it too tightly. If you notice your cake is dry before serving, you can brush on some additional eggnog or serve it with a scoop of ice cream to add moisture back into the experience!

Is this cake suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Certainly! You can make a gluten-free version of the Delicious Eggnog Pound Cake by substituting the cake flour with a gluten-free all-purpose blend. Be sure it has xanthan gum included, or add a teaspoon yourself to help with texture. Just keep in mind, baking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on it as it bakes!