why make this recipe
Eggnog Pound Cake is a delightful twist on the classic pound cake, offering rich, creamy flavors that remind you of the holidays. It’s packed with all the warm, comforting notes of the festive season, making it a perfect addition to any winter gathering.
This cake is not only delicious but also simple to make. It brings joy to both the baker and those who get to enjoy a slice. Sharing it at holiday parties or family gatherings is sure to create sweet memories.
equipment needed for Eggnog Pound Cake
To make Eggnog Pound Cake with ease, it helps to have the right equipment on hand. Here’s what you will need:
- Mixing bowls
- Electric mixer
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Rubber spatula
- Two 9×5 inch loaf pans
- Parchment paper (optional)
- Whisk for frosting
- Toothpick for testing doneness
- Cooling rack
What You Need to Make Eggnog Pound Cake
- 2 cups butter (softened)
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- ⅔ cup eggnog
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 4 tablespoons butter (softened)
- 4 cups powdered sugar
- 6-8 tablespoons eggnog (more as needed)
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
How to Cook Eggnog Pound Cake Step by Step
To begin making your Eggnog Pound Cake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Generously grease two 9×5 inch loaf pans. You can also sprinkle some flour in the pans or use parchment paper if you prefer for easier removal later.
In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar. Use an electric mixer to beat them until the mixture is very light and fluffy, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
Next, add in the eggs, one at a time. Make sure to mix well after each addition until all the eggs are fully incorporated. This step is important for achieving a balanced texture in your cake.
Then, you will need to mix in the vanilla and ground nutmeg, which are key to giving the cake its signature flavor. After that, gradually alternate adding the flour and eggnog into the butter mixture. Make sure you stir gently and do not overmix to keep the cake light and airy.
Once your batter is well mixed and smooth, it’s time to divide it evenly between the two prepared loaf pans. Now, place the pans into your preheated oven. You will want to bake them for about 55 to 70 minutes until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out mostly clean. A few crumbs are okay, but there should not be any wet batter remaining.
When the cakes are done baking, allow them to cool in the pans for a little while before transferring them to a cooling rack. It’s essential to let the cakes cool completely before adding the frosting.
To prepare the frosting, take a bowl and cream the softened butter for about 2 to 3 minutes. Beat it until it becomes very fluffy. Gradually mix in the powdered sugar, followed by adding eggnog one tablespoon at a time until the frosting reaches a smooth and spreadable consistency. Be cautious not to make it too runny. Stir in the remaining ground nutmeg for added flavor.
After your cakes have cooled completely, spread the luscious frosting on top of each loaf. Once frosted, you can cut the cake into slices and serve. If there are any leftovers, store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
how to make Eggnog Pound Cake
Making Eggnog Pound Cake involves straightforward steps that anyone can follow. Start by preparing your workspace and ingredients, ensuring everything is measured and ready.
Then, you mix the soft butter and sugar until fluffy, which adds air into the mix and helps the cake rise. Incorporating the eggs one at a time is another essential step. Beat them in properly to create a homogenous mixture.
Next comes the flour and eggnog. Mixing these ingredients alternately helps maintain the batter’s texture. Finally, baking and allowing the cake to cool are vital steps. You want your cake to firm up and then top it with the homemade frosting.
how to serve Eggnog Pound Cake
Eggnog Pound Cake can be served in many delightful ways. Simply slice the cake into thick slices and plate them beautifully. You can garnish each slice with a sprinkle of nutmeg or additional frosting for that festive flair.
Serving this cake with a side of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate the experience. Many enjoy a cup of hot coffee or spiced tea to accompany their slice, enhancing the rich flavors of the cake.
If you are hosting a holiday party, consider arranging a dessert table where each guest can take a slice. It can create a nice display, especially if paired with other seasonal treats.
what to serve with Eggnog Pound Cake
Eggnog Pound Cake pairs wonderfully with various accompaniments. A classic choice is a dollop of whipped cream, which adds a light and airy texture to complement the dense cake.
You could also serve it alongside a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a delightful contrast.
For a more festive touch, consider offering a warm spiced apple cider, which goes hand-in-hand with the cozy flavors of the cake.
Creating a small fruit platter with seasonal fruits like pomegranates or cranberries can add color and freshness to your serving.
how to store Eggnog Pound Cake
Storing your Eggnog Pound Cake properly will help keep it fresh for days to come. Allow the cake to cool completely after baking and frosting.
Once cooled, cover the cake with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Make sure it’s airtight to prevent it from drying out.
You can store it at room temperature for up to three days. If you want to keep it for longer, consider refrigerating it.
For even longer storage, you can freeze the cake by slicing it beforehand. Wrap each slice in plastic wrap then place them all in a freezer-safe bag or container. The cake can stay in the freezer for up to three months.
When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
tips to make Eggnog Pound Cake
To ensure your Eggnog Pound Cake turns out perfectly, here are some helpful tips. First, always start with room temperature butter and eggs. This helps the butter to cream properly and creates a better batter texture.
Mix the batter gently once you add the dry ingredients. Overmixing can make your cake dense and heavy instead of light and fluffy.
Don’t skip the cooling step before frosting it. If the cake is too warm, the frosting can melt right off.
Using fresh nutmeg will give your cakes a more vibrant flavor. If you have whole nutmeg, grate it just before use for the best taste.
Finally, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness of your frosting. If you find it too sweet, add a tad more eggnog to balance it out.
variation
If you want to switch things up a bit, there are several variations you can try with your Eggnog Pound Cake. Consider adding chocolate chips to the batter for a rich, chocolatey surprise.
You can also infuse the batter with different spices, such as cinnamon or clove, to alter the flavor profile.
Another fun idea is swapping the eggnog for a flavored coffee creamer, which can lend a unique taste.
For a holiday twist, you might top the cake with a cranberry glaze instead of traditional frosting. Each variation can bring a fun and personal touch to the cake.
best time to make Eggnog Pound Cake
The best time to make Eggnog Pound Cake is during the holiday season. Its festive flavors work beautifully for Christmas gatherings or New Year’s celebrations.
You can serve it at family gatherings, office parties, or as a festive dessert with friends. The rich spices and eggnog make it a perfect winter treat.
However, feel free to enjoy it whenever you crave something warm and comforting. The cake can bright up any chilly day, making any moment special.
common mistakes to avoid
When making Eggnog Pound Cake, there are a few common mistakes to sidestep. One frequent mistake is not properly measuring the ingredients. Accurate measurements are crucial for the right texture.
Overmixing the batter after adding flour can lead to a dense cake, so mix gently.
Another pitfall is not allowing the cake to cool enough before frosting. The warm cake can affect the frosting’s consistency and presentation.
Avoid skipping the use of good quality eggnog. It plays a significant role in the flavors, so investing in good eggnog can make a big difference.
nutritional notes
Eggnog Pound Cake, while delicious, does contain some rich ingredients. It’s relatively high in butter and sugar, making it a treat to enjoy in moderation.
One slice typically contains calories due to its buttery richness and sugary frosting.
If you want a lighter version, you could experiment with substitutes for sugar and butter. Using yogurt or applesauce in place of some butter can cut down on calories as well.
Always check nutrition labels on commercial eggnog if you’re following a specific diet, as they can vary widely in calories and sugars.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?
Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly for this recipe. However, opt for a quality brand for the best flavor.
How long does the cake stay fresh?
Eggnog Pound Cake can be stored at room temperature for up to three days or refrigerated for longer freshness.
Can I freeze the cake?
Absolutely! Slice the cake and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before freezing. It can last for up to three months.
conclusion
Eggnog Pound Cake brings a festive spirit that delights the palate and warms the heart. It’s a perfect option for holiday gatherings or as a cozy treat at home.
With a straightforward recipe and a few tips, you can create this delicious cake with ease. Don’t forget to enjoy it with your favorite beverages or alongside fun seasonal sides.
Embrace the comforts of the holiday season with this delightful pound cake, ensuring sweet memories and happy moments with family and friends.
