Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your holiday baking game, this Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe is a true showstopper. This moist, warmly spiced banana bread gets a festive makeover with the addition of nutmeg and a luscious, creamy eggnog glaze that perfectly balances sweet and spice. Whether you’re gifting it to loved ones or savoring a cozy slice alongside your morning coffee, this recipe embodies the joyful flavors of the season in one irresistible loaf.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but thoughtfully chosen to ensure your Christmas banana bread with eggnog glaze shines in flavor, texture, and color. Each one plays a key role, from the ripe bananas adding natural sweetness and moisture, to the nutmeg offering a warm holiday spice, and the eggnog glaze providing that festive finishing touch.

• 2 ripe bananas, mashed: The star of the show, delivering sweetness and moistness that keep the bread tender.
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted: Adds richness and a soft crumb while preventing the bread from drying out.
• 3/4 cup brown sugar: Enhances depth with its slight molasses flavor and helps keep the bread moist.
• 1 large egg: Binds everything together and contributes to the bread’s structure.
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour: The base that gives the bread its structure and perfect crumb.
• 1 tsp baking soda: Ensures your bread rises beautifully and stays fluffy.
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg: Brings a warmly spiced, festive note that’s subtle but essential for the holiday vibe.
• 1 cup powdered sugar (for glaze): Creates a smooth, sweet coating that perfectly balances the bread’s spiced flavors.
• 2–3 tbsp eggnog (for glaze): Adds creaminess and a signature holiday twist to the glaze, enhancing the overall festive feel.

How to Make Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Loaf Pan

Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a loaf pan thoroughly—this little step ensures your banana bread comes out perfectly without sticking. Trust me, it makes the whole process smoother when it’s time to enjoy your creation.

Step 2: Mix the Wet Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine your mashed bananas with melted butter, brown sugar, and the egg. Stir everything together until it’s smooth and well blended. This mixture is the heart of your bread, packing it with moistness and sweetness that will keep every bite delightful.

Step 3: Add the Dry Ingredients

Next, gradually add in the flour, baking soda, and that lovely pinch of nutmeg. Stir gently until just combined—here’s a little trick: don’t overmix! Too much stirring can lead to a tougher texture, and we want this bread soft and fluffy with every nibble.

Step 4: Bake the Bread

Pour your batter into the prepared loaf pan, spreading it evenly. Bake for 50 to 55 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The aroma filling your kitchen at this stage is downright irresistible and pure holiday magic.

Step 5: Cool and Glaze

Allow the bread to cool completely in the pan before you remove it—patience at this stage pays off in the best texture. Meanwhile, whisk powdered sugar and eggnog together until smooth to create your glaze. Drizzle it evenly over the top, letting it cascade down the sides. This finishing touch elevates the classic banana bread into a festive centerpiece.

How to Serve Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe

Garnishes

For a little extra sparkle, consider sprinkling chopped toasted nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon over the glaze before it sets. Not only does this add textures, but it also brings extra layers of aroma and flavor, making each slice feel special and thoughtfully finished.

Side Dishes

This banana bread is a star on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a warm cup of coffee, spiced chai tea, or a glass of cold eggnog. You could even serve it alongside a creamy dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent holiday treat.

Creative Ways to Present

Wrap slices individually in parchment paper tied with festive twine to give as delightful gifts. Or serve on a beautiful holiday platter surrounded by fresh cranberries and evergreen sprigs to impress guests at your next holiday gathering. This Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe makes any presentation feel cozy and celebratory.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover banana bread in an airtight container at room temperature and it will stay fresh for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, popping it in the fridge will extend its life to about a week—just be sure to bring it back to room temperature before serving for that perfect soft texture.

Freezing

If you want to prepare ahead or save some for later, wrap the cooled banana bread tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before freezing. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To enjoy, thaw slowly overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Reheating

Reheat slices in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to bring back that fresh-baked warmth. If you’re reheating the whole loaf, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. The eggnog glaze might soften a bit, blending its flavors even more deliciously into the bread.

FAQs

Can I use regular milk instead of eggnog in the glaze?

Absolutely! While eggnog gives this Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe its signature festive flavor, you can substitute regular milk or cream if you prefer a milder glaze. Just keep an eye on the consistency so it stays pourable.

What if I don’t have nutmeg? Can I use another spice?

If nutmeg isn’t on hand, cinnamon or a mix of cinnamon and allspice works beautifully to keep that warm holiday character. Each spice adds a slightly different note, so feel free to experiment to find your favorite twist.

How ripe should my bananas be?

For the best flavor and natural sweetness, bananas should be very ripe with plenty of brown spots. Overripe bananas are softer and sweeter, which makes the bread tender and deeply flavorful—don’t be shy about using those extra-ripe ones!

Can I double the recipe to make two loaves?

Yes! Doubling this Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe is a fantastic idea for holiday gatherings. Use a larger pan or two smaller pans and adjust the baking time slightly—start checking for doneness around 60 minutes.

Is this recipe egg-free or dairy-free?

This recipe as written contains egg and butter, so it’s not egg-free or dairy-free. However, you could try substituting with dairy-free butter and an egg replacer, though keep in mind the texture and flavor might be a bit different from the classic version.

Final Thoughts

This Christmas Banana Bread with Eggnog Glaze Recipe is a warm hug on a plate, perfect for spreading holiday cheer whether for yourself or others. It’s comforting, festive, and downright delicious—a beautiful way to savor the season. Give it a try and watch it become one of your holiday favorites, too!