Description: This Eggnog Bundt Cake is a festive and flavorful dessert, perfect for the holiday season. The cake is infused with the rich, creamy taste of eggnog, complemented by a hint of nutmeg and vanilla. Topped with a luscious eggnog frosting, this cake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and will become a staple at your holiday gatherings.
Why you will love this recipe: You’ll adore this Eggnog Bundt Cake for its moist, tender crumb and the comforting warmth of eggnog spices. The combination of the cake’s subtle sweetness and the frosting’s creamy richness creates a truly decadent treat. It’s also incredibly easy to make, using simple ingredients and straightforward instructions. Plus, the elegant shape of the bundt cake makes it a stunning centerpiece for any festive table. This cake embodies the spirit of the holidays in every bite, making it an unforgettable dessert experience.
Introduction
The holiday season calls for special treats that capture the warmth and joy of the festivities. What better way to celebrate than with a show-stopping Eggnog Bundt Cake? This recipe combines the traditional flavors of eggnog with the satisfying texture of a classic bundt cake. The result is a moist, tender cake that’s bursting with the creamy, spiced goodness of eggnog. The cake is then generously drizzled with a homemade eggnog frosting that enhances the cake’s flavors, making it an absolute holiday masterpiece.
This Eggnog Bundt Cake is not only delicious but also visually stunning. The elegant bundt shape makes it a perfect centerpiece for your holiday table. The creamy white frosting, sprinkled with a touch of nutmeg, adds a touch of sophistication that will impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a holiday party, attending a potluck, or simply want to indulge in a festive treat, this cake is the perfect choice.
Ingredients:
For the Cake:
- 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened: The butter provides richness and moisture to the cake. Make sure it is softened to room temperature for easy creaming.
- 2 cups granulated sugar: Sugar sweetens the cake and helps to create a tender crumb.
- 4 large eggs: Eggs bind the ingredients together and add structure and richness to the cake.
- 1 cup eggnog: The star ingredient! Eggnog infuses the cake with its unique creamy, spiced flavor. Use your favorite store-bought or homemade eggnog.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor profile of the cake.
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg complements the eggnog flavor and adds a warm, spicy note.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Salt balances the sweetness and enhances the other flavors in the cake.
- 3 cups all-purpose flour: Flour provides the structure for the cake.
- 1 tablespoon baking powder: Baking powder helps the cake rise and become light and fluffy.
For the Eggnog Frosting:
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened: The butter forms the base of the frosting, making it creamy and smooth.
- 2 cups powdered sugar: Powdered sugar sweetens the frosting and gives it a smooth texture.
- 2-4 tablespoons eggnog: Eggnog adds flavor and helps to achieve the desired consistency for the frosting.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the flavor of the frosting.
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Nutmeg complements the eggnog flavor in the frosting.
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Bundt Pan
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that the cake bakes evenly.
- Grease a bundt pan thoroughly with butter or baking spray. This prevents the cake from sticking to the pan and allows for easy release after baking. If you want to be extra sure, dust the greased pan with flour, tapping out any excess. A well-prepared pan is crucial for a beautiful bundt cake.
Step 2: Cream Butter and Sugar
- In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar using an electric mixer on medium speed. Continue mixing until the mixture is light and fluffy. This process incorporates air into the batter, which is essential for a tender cake. It usually takes about 3-5 minutes.
Step 3: Add Eggs, Eggnog, Vanilla, and Nutmeg
- Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. This ensures that each egg is fully incorporated into the batter, contributing to the cake’s structure and richness.
- Stir in the eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix at this stage, as it can result in a tough cake.
Step 4: Combine Dry Ingredients
- In another bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Whisking ensures that the baking powder is evenly distributed, resulting in a consistent rise.
Step 5: Gradually Add Dry Ingredients to Wet Ingredients
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can develop the gluten in the flour and result in a dense, tough cake. Mix until the flour is just incorporated, and then stop.
Step 6: Pour Batter into Bundt Pan
- Pour the batter into the prepared bundt pan and smooth the top with a spatula. This ensures that the cake bakes evenly.
Step 7: Bake the Cake
- Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. The baking time may vary depending on your oven, so start checking for doneness at 50 minutes. If the cake is browning too quickly, you can tent it with foil during the last part of baking.
Step 8: Cool the Cake
- Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes. This allows the cake to set slightly, making it easier to remove from the pan without breaking.
- Carefully invert the cake onto a wire rack and let it cool completely. Ensure that the cake is completely cool before frosting, as the frosting will melt if applied to a warm cake.
Step 9: Prepare the Eggnog Frosting
- In a large bowl, beat the softened butter until creamy using an electric mixer.
- Gradually add the powdered sugar, mixing on low speed until combined. This prevents the powdered sugar from flying all over your kitchen.
- Add the eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg. Mix until smooth. Adjust the consistency with more eggnog if necessary. The frosting should be thick enough to drizzle but not so thick that it’s difficult to spread.
Step 10: Frost the Cake
- Once the cake is completely cool, drizzle the frosting over the top. You can either drizzle it randomly or use a piping bag for a more decorative look.
COOKING Rating:
- Difficulty: Easy to Medium
- Flavor Profile: Sweet, creamy, and spiced with eggnog and nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve slices of the Eggnog Bundt Cake with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Garnish with fresh cranberries or a sprinkle of nutmeg for a festive touch.
- Pair with a warm cup of coffee, tea, or a glass of eggnog for the ultimate holiday treat.
Tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are at room temperature for optimal mixing and a smoother batter.
- Don’t overmix the batter, as this can result in a tough cake.
- Grease the bundt pan thoroughly to prevent the cake from sticking.
- Let the cake cool completely before frosting to prevent the frosting from melting.
- For a richer flavor, use homemade eggnog.
- Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.
Prep Time:
- 20 minutes
Cook Time:
- 50-60 minutes
Total Time:
- 1 hour 10 minutes – 1 hour 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per slice, approximately):
This is an approximation and may vary based on ingredient brands and serving size.
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 5g
- Sodium: 200mg
Conclusion
This Eggnog Bundt Cake is a delightful addition to your holiday baking repertoire. Its rich, creamy flavor and elegant appearance make it a standout dessert that will impress your guests. With its simple instructions and readily available ingredients, this cake is easy to make, yet it delivers a gourmet experience that embodies the spirit of the season. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a holiday masterpiece that will become a cherished tradition for years to come.
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of pan if I don’t have a bundt pan?
A: While a bundt pan gives this cake its signature look, you can use other pans if needed. A 9×13 inch rectangular pan or two 9-inch round cake pans would work. Adjust the baking time accordingly, as the cooking time may vary depending on the pan size and shape. Keep an eye on the cake and check for doneness with a toothpick. Remember that the presentation will be different, but the delicious flavor will remain the same.
Q2: Can I make this cake ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! This Eggnog Bundt Cake can be made a day or two in advance. Once the cake is completely cooled, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it at room temperature. You can also freeze the unfrosted cake for up to a month. When ready to serve, thaw the cake completely and then frost it. Making the cake ahead of time can be a great time-saver during the busy holiday season.
Q3: Can I add alcohol to the cake or frosting?
A: Yes, you can certainly add a splash of your favorite liquor to enhance the flavor. For the cake, a tablespoon or two of rum or brandy can be added to the wet ingredients. For the frosting, a teaspoon or two of rum extract or rum can be added to the eggnog when making the frosting. Be mindful of the alcohol content if serving to children or those who prefer non-alcoholic desserts.
Q4: How do I prevent the cake from sticking to the bundt pan?
A: Preventing the cake from sticking to the bundt pan is crucial for a beautiful presentation. Grease the pan thoroughly with softened butter or baking spray, making sure to get into all the crevices. For extra insurance, dust the greased pan with flour or cocoa powder, tapping out any excess. Alternatively, you can use a baking spray specifically designed for bundt pans, which contains flour and oil. Let the cake cool in the pan for about 10 minutes before inverting it onto a wire rack.
Q5: Can I make this cake gluten-free?
A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe to be gluten-free. Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Make sure to choose a blend that contains xanthan gum, as this will help to bind the ingredients together and provide structure to the cake. The baking time may need to be adjusted slightly, so keep an eye on the cake and check for doneness with a toothpick. The texture of the gluten-free cake may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious.
