The Absolute Best Ways to Use Eggnog in Your Holiday Baking

Eggnog: the rich, spiced drink that’s practically synonymous with the holiday season. Whether you love it or tend to pass on a glass, there's one thing that’s undeniable—it’s a fantastic addition to your holiday baking. With its creamy texture, subtle sweetness, and the nostalgic blend of spices, eggnog elevates ordinary treats into something truly festive.

If you’ve never thought about using eggnog in your baking, now is the perfect time to give it a try. It’s an easy way to infuse that signature holiday flavor into your favorite desserts without complicating the recipe. Ready to take your holiday treats to the next level? Here’s how eggnog can work its magic in your kitchen this season:

1. Eggnog French Toast Bake

This one’s for your lazy Christmas morning (or, let’s be honest, any cozy weekend). Replace the milk in your classic French toast bake with eggnog. The custardy richness pairs perfectly with cinnamon-swirled bread or brioche. Throw in a dash of rum extract for extra flair, and don’t skimp on the powdered sugar and maple syrup drizzle.

2. Eggnog Cheesecake Bars

Think cheesecake but with a holiday twist. Swap some of the cream in your cheesecake recipe with eggnog for a silky, spiced filling. Sprinkle a little nutmeg over the top before baking, and you’ve got a dessert that’s equal parts creamy and festive. Pro tip: add a gingersnap crust for that extra holiday zing.

3. Eggnog Glaze for Everything

Cookies? Check. Pound cake? Yep. Cinnamon rolls? Absolutely. Make an eggnog glaze by mixing powdered sugar with a splash of eggnog and a pinch of nutmeg. It’s ridiculously simple and instantly upgrades any dessert into a holiday masterpiece.

4. Eggnog Cupcakes with Spiced Buttercream

Add eggnog to your cupcake batter in place of milk for a light, fluffy, and perfectly spiced cake. Top it off with a buttercream frosting whipped with a splash of eggnog and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Bonus points if you serve them with tiny candy canes for that Instagram-worthy holiday aesthetic.

5. Eggnog Bread Pudding

Nothing screams cozy like warm bread pudding fresh from the oven. Swap out the milk in your recipe with eggnog and toss in some dried cranberries or white chocolate chips. Serve it with a warm eggnog sauce or a dollop of whipped cream. It’s like a holiday hug in every bite.

6. Eggnog Snickerdoodles

Take your favorite snickerdoodle recipe and level it up by adding a few tablespoons of eggnog to the dough. It keeps the cookies soft and adds a subtle holiday spice that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon-sugar coating.

Why Eggnog Deserves the Spotlight

What makes eggnog such a holiday baking MVP? It’s rich, creamy, and already packed with spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, which means less work for you. Plus, its festive flavor takes simple recipes to the next level without much effort.

Whether you’re hosting a party, baking for family, or just treating yourself, adding a splash (or two) of eggnog is the perfect way to bring the holidays into every bite. So, grab a carton and start experimenting—your taste buds will thank you!