Festive & Flavorful Eggnog Bundt Cake: Your Ultimate Holiday Dessert Recipe

Embrace the cozy spirit of the holiday season with this exquisite Eggnog Bundt Cake. This recipe delivers a perfectly spiced, incredibly moist cake crowned with the most luscious, rich Eggnog Glaze you’ll ever taste. It’s not just a dessert; it’s a celebration of classic holiday flavors, designed to impress with minimal effort.

This decadent and wonderfully moist Eggnog Bundt Cake stands out with its beautiful bundt pan design. The intricate patterns of a bundt pan transform a simple cake into a stunning centerpiece, and when generously drizzled with our signature eggnog glaze, it becomes an irresistible spectacle. Each bite of this festive cake is a symphony of flavors, deeply infused with the rich, creamy essence of eggnog and warm, comforting spices, making it an absolute holiday staple.

Eggnog has long been a beloved flavor in our household, especially during the festive months. For years, I’ve delighted in creating a variety of Eggnog Desserts, from creamy puddings to fluffy breads. Our family particularly enjoys Easy Eggnog Bread, and this bundt cake is a natural, elevated extension of that love.

If you’re planning your holiday baking and searching for more delightful cake recipes to share, consider exploring other seasonal favorites. Our Christmas Bundt Cake and Pumpkin Bundt Cake are also highly requested festive treats that have graced our holiday tables for many seasons, always met with rave reviews.

Why We Love This Festive Eggnog Cake

There are countless reasons why this Eggnog Bundt Cake has become a treasured recipe, especially during the bustling holiday season. Its appeal lies in a perfect blend of simplicity, stunning presentation, and irresistible flavor:

• Effortless Elegance: This is an incredibly easy-to-make cake that delivers a showstopping appearance. The beauty of baking in a bundt pan is that it does all the work for you, creating an intricate design without the fuss of layering or elaborate frosting techniques. It looks like you spent hours, but it comes together surprisingly fast.
• Pantry-Friendly Ingredients: Most of the ingredients required for this delicious holiday cake are likely already stocked in your pantry. Common baking staples combined with the seasonal star – eggnog – mean you can whip this up without a last-minute grocery dash, making holiday baking stress-free.
• Unbeatable Eggnog Flavor: If you’re an eggnog enthusiast, this cake is an absolute dream come true. It’s deeply infused with the rich, creamy, and distinct flavor of eggnog, complemented by a medley of warm spices that evoke the true essence of the holidays. Each bite is a comforting embrace, perfect for a chilly winter evening.
• Moist and Decadent Texture: Thanks to the full-fat eggnog and careful baking, this bundt cake boasts an incredibly moist and tender crumb that practically melts in your mouth. The texture is consistently perfect, ensuring a delightful experience with every slice.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a cozy family gathering, a festive holiday party, or a thoughtful edible gift for friends and neighbors, this Eggnog Bundt Cake is always a welcome addition. Its festive appeal and delicious taste make it suitable for any celebratory event.

This holiday dessert truly embodies everything you love about the season in cake form, offering a delightful blend of tradition and deliciousness.

The Magic of Eggnog in Baking

Eggnog isn’t just for sipping; its rich, creamy texture and distinct spiced flavor make it a secret weapon in holiday baking. Originating from medieval European drinks, eggnog, a milky, spiced, and often alcoholic beverage, evolved into a Christmas tradition, particularly in the United States and Canada. When incorporated into a cake, it imparts an unparalleled moisture and a delicate, complex flavor that is truly unique to the season.

The combination of eggs, milk, sugar, and cream in eggnog naturally contributes to a tender crumb and a moist texture, while the inherent spices like nutmeg (and sometimes cinnamon or cloves) perfectly complement the other flavors in the cake. Using eggnog in baking allows you to infuse your desserts with that unmistakable holiday spirit, turning a simple cake into a festive masterpiece without needing to add a multitude of individual spices.

Key Ingredients for the Perfect Eggnog Cake

Creating this magnificent Eggnog Bundt Cake starts with a selection of quality ingredients. Understanding the role of each component is crucial for achieving that signature moist texture and rich, spiced flavor:

For the Cake Batter:

• All-purpose flour: The foundation of our cake’s structure. For precise measurements and a light, airy cake, it’s always best to spoon the flour into a measuring cup and then level it off with a straight edge, rather than scooping directly from the bag. This prevents over-packing the flour, which can lead to a dense, dry cake.
• Baking Powder: Our primary leavening agent, ensuring the cake rises beautifully and achieves a light, fluffy texture.
• Ground Nutmeg: This is a star spice in eggnog and its flavor profile. It pairs perfectly with the creamy richness of the eggnog, adding warmth and a classic holiday aroma to the cake. For an extra punch, consider grating fresh nutmeg for an even more vibrant flavor.
• Salt: A crucial ingredient that balances the sweetness and enhances all the other flavors in the cake.
• Unsalted Butter: Using unsalted butter allows you to control the overall sodium content of the cake. Butter provides richness, moisture, and contributes significantly to the cake’s tender crumb and delightful flavor. Ensure it’s at room temperature for optimal creaming with sugar.
• Large Eggs: Eggs provide structure, richness, and help bind the ingredients. It’s essential for them to be at room temperature. Room temperature eggs emulsify better with the butter and sugar, leading to a smoother, more uniform batter and a finer-textured cake.
• Granulated Sugar: Sweetens the cake and aids in moisture retention. When creamed with butter, it creates air pockets that contribute to the cake’s lightness.
• Vanilla Extract: Pure vanilla extract will impart the best, most authentic flavor, complementing the eggnog and spices beautifully. Avoid imitation vanilla for superior taste.
• Full-Fat Eggnog: The hero of our recipe! I highly recommend using full-fat eggnog. Its higher fat content is key to making this bundt cake incredibly moist, rich, and flavorful. The creaminess is essential for both texture and taste.
• Dark Rum or Brandy (Optional): A traditional addition to eggnog, a few tablespoons of dark rum or brandy can deepen the flavor profile of the cake, adding a subtle warmth and sophistication. The alcohol mostly bakes out, leaving behind a wonderful aroma and taste. For a non-alcoholic version, simply omit or use rum extract.

For the Irresistible Eggnog Glaze:

• Powdered Sugar: Also known as confectioners’ sugar, this fine sugar is essential for a smooth, lump-free glaze. Always sift the powdered sugar before mixing to remove any lumps and ensure a silky consistency.
• Eggnog: This ties the glaze directly to the cake’s flavor. You can adjust the amount of eggnog to achieve your desired glaze consistency and to taste. Add a little extra if you prefer a stronger eggnog flavor in your glaze.
• Vanilla Extract: A touch of vanilla enhances the overall sweetness and complements the eggnog flavor in the glaze.

You can find the complete, precise list of measurements and detailed instructions in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

Delicious Variations to Customize Your Cake

While this Eggnog Bundt Cake recipe is perfect as is, it also offers a fantastic canvas for creative customizations. Here are some delightful variations to make it uniquely yours:

• Alternative Toppings:
  • Instead of the classic Eggnog Glaze, consider a rich Homemade Cream Cheese Frosting Recipe. Its tangy sweetness provides a wonderful contrast to the spiced cake.
  • For a touch of elegance and extra indulgence, drizzle melted white chocolate or dark chocolate over the cooled glaze or directly on the cake.
  • A Cinnamon Buttercream is also a fantastic choice; you can even add a splash of eggnog to the buttercream to create an “eggnog buttercream” for an extra layer of seasonal flavor.
• Add More Spices: If you love a bolder spice profile, incorporate an additional ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon or a pinch of ground cloves or allspice into the cake batter along with the nutmeg. This will deepen the holiday essence.
• Kid-Friendly Rum Substitute: If you prefer to avoid alcohol or are making the cake for a younger audience, you can easily replace the dark rum or brandy with 1-2 teaspoons of rum extract. This will provide a similar flavor note without the alcohol content.
• Nuts or Dried Fruit: For added texture and flavor, gently fold ½ cup of finely chopped pecans, walnuts, or dried cranberries into the cake batter just before pouring it into the bundt pan. These additions will lend a delightful chewiness and extra festive touch.
• Citrus Zest: A hint of fresh orange or lemon zest (about 1 teaspoon) can brighten the rich flavors of the eggnog and spices, adding a refreshing counterpoint. Add it to the batter with the wet ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Bake Your Eggnog Cake

Follow these detailed steps carefully to ensure your Eggnog Bundt Cake turns out perfectly moist, flavorful, and beautifully presented:

• Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Bundt Pan. Begin by preheating your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (175°C). This ensures the oven is at the correct temperature when the cake goes in, promoting even baking. Next, generously grease and flour a 12-cup Bundt cake pan. This is a critical step to prevent sticking and ensure your beautiful cake releases cleanly. Pay special attention to all the crevices and curves of the pan. Once prepared, set the pan aside.
• Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients. In a separate, medium-sized mixing bowl, thoroughly whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground nutmeg, and salt. Whisk well to ensure all leavening agents and spices are evenly distributed. Set this dry mixture aside.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar. Using the bowl of a stand mixer fitted with a paddle attachment (or a large bowl with a hand mixer), beat the softened unsalted butter and granulated sugar together on medium-high speed. Continue beating for 4-5 minutes until the mixture is light, fluffy, and pale in color. This process incorporates air, which is essential for a tender cake.

Step 4: Add Eggs and Vanilla. Reduce the mixer speed to low. Add the room temperature eggs one at a time, allowing each egg to fully incorporate into the butter-sugar mixture before adding the next. This prevents the batter from curdling. Once all eggs are combined, mix in the pure vanilla extract until just incorporated.

Step 5: Incorporate Dry and Wet Ingredients. With the mixer still on low speed, gradually add the whisked flour mixture alternately with the full-fat eggnog, beginning and ending with the flour mixture. Mix until just combined after each addition. Be careful not to overmix the batter; overmixing can develop the gluten in the flour, leading to a tough cake.

Step 6: Add Rum or Brandy (Optional). If you are using dark rum or brandy, gently stir it into the batter at this stage until it is evenly distributed. This step enhances the rich, festive flavor of the cake.

Step 7: Fill the Bundt Pan. Pour the prepared cake batter evenly into the greased and floured Bundt pan. Gently tap the pan on your counter a few times. This helps to release any trapped air bubbles from the batter, ensuring a smooth, uniform texture in the baked cake.

Step 8: Bake to Perfection. Transfer the Bundt pan to the preheated oven and bake for 45-55 minutes. The cake is done when a wooden toothpick or thin skewer inserted into the center comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs attached. Avoid overbaking, as this can lead to a dry cake.

Step 9: Cool the Cake. Once baked, remove the cake from the oven and allow it to cool in the bundt pan on a wire rack for 10-15 minutes. This crucial resting period allows the cake to firm up slightly, making it easier to remove from the pan without breaking. After resting, carefully invert the pan onto the wire rack to fully release the cake, and let it cool completely before glazing.

Step 10: Prepare and Apply the Eggnog Glaze. While the cake cools, prepare your irresistible eggnog glaze. In a medium bowl, whisk together the sifted powdered sugar, eggnog, and vanilla extract until smooth. You’re looking for a thick, pourable consistency. If the glaze is too thin, add a little more sifted powdered sugar. If it’s too thick, add a tiny bit more eggnog, a teaspoon at a time, until it reaches the perfect drizzling consistency. Once the cake is completely cool, generously pour the glaze over the top, allowing it to drip beautifully down the sides. Allow the glaze to set slightly before slicing and serving.

Storing Your Eggnog Bundt Cake

Proper storage is key to keeping your Eggnog Bundt Cake fresh and moist for as long as possible. Once the cake has completely cooled and the glaze has set, place any leftover cake inside an airtight container. Alternatively, you can wrap individual slices or the entire cake tightly in plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out. This delicious cake can be stored at room temperature for up to 1 week. There’s no need to refrigerate it, as refrigeration can sometimes alter the texture of cakes, making them denser or drier. Simply keep it covered on your countertop, and it will remain wonderfully soft and flavorful.

Pro Tips for Eggnog Cake Success

Achieving a bakery-quality Eggnog Bundt Cake is easier than you think with these expert tips:

• Thoroughly Prepare the Bundt Pan: This is arguably the most crucial step for a beautiful bundt cake. Don’t just rely on a quick spray of non-stick cooking spray. Instead, generously grease the entire interior of the bundt pan with softened butter or a baking spray that contains flour (like Baker’s Joy). Then, dust it thoroughly with all-purpose flour, rotating the pan to ensure every nook and cranny is coated. Tap out any excess flour. This creates a reliable non-stick barrier, ensuring the cake can easily be removed from the pan without any pieces sticking.
• Ensure Room Temperature Ingredients: Always make sure your butter, eggs, and especially the eggnog are at room temperature before you begin mixing. Room temperature ingredients emulsify more effectively, meaning they blend together smoothly and evenly. This results in a cohesive, well-aerated batter and ultimately, a cake with a fine, uniform crumb and superior texture. Cold ingredients can cause the batter to curdle and affect the cake’s structure.
• Do Not Overbake the Cake: Overbaking is the quickest way to end up with a dry, crumbly cake. Begin checking the cake for doneness around the 45-minute mark. Insert a wooden toothpick or thin skewer into the thickest part of the cake. If it comes out clean or with only a few moist crumbs attached, the cake is ready. If it’s not done, continue baking and check every few minutes to avoid exceeding the ideal baking time.
• Allow the Cake to Rest Before Serving: While tempting to slice into immediately, I highly recommend allowing the cake to sit for at least 2-4 hours, or even better, 24 hours before cutting and serving. This resting period allows the flavors to meld and deepen, especially the subtle nuances of the eggnog and spices. The texture also improves, becoming even more moist and tender.
• Cool Completely Before Glazing: Patience is a virtue when it comes to glazing. It is absolutely essential that the cake is completely cooled before you pour the eggnog glaze over it. If the cake is even slightly warm, the glaze will melt and absorb into the cake, rather than forming that lovely, smooth, opaque coating.

Serving Suggestions for Your Holiday Masterpiece

Your beautiful Eggnog Bundt Cake is a star on its own, but it can also be enhanced with thoughtful accompaniments to create an even more memorable dessert experience. Here are some festive serving suggestions:

• A Dusting of Spices: Before serving, consider a light dusting of freshly grated nutmeg or cinnamon over the glazed cake for an extra aromatic touch and visual appeal.
• Whipped Cream or Ice Cream: A dollop of homemade whipped cream, perhaps lightly sweetened with a hint of vanilla, or a scoop of vanilla bean ice cream makes a delightful pairing, adding a creamy coolness that contrasts with the cake’s richness.
• Warm Beverage Pairings: Serve slices of eggnog cake alongside a steaming mug of coffee, hot tea, or a fresh glass of eggnog (spiked or unspiked) to truly immerse yourself in the holiday spirit.
• Fresh Fruit: A sprinkle of fresh cranberries or a few candied orange slices can add a burst of color and a refreshing tartness to cut through the sweetness of the cake.
• Edible Decorations: For an extra festive touch, adorn your serving platter with holly sprigs (non-edible), cinnamon sticks, or a scattering of sugared cranberries or rosemary.

No matter how you choose to present it, this Eggnog Bundt Cake is guaranteed to be a hit at your holiday table!

Ready to bring the irresistible taste of the holidays into your home? Go ahead and make this delicious Eggnog Bundt Cake. It’s truly one of the most festive and delightful treats you can bake all season long. We’re confident it will become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Please leave a comment and a star rating once you do – we’d love to hear about your baking success!