Eggnog Pound Cake

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When the holidays roll around, there’s one flavor that captures the warmth and coziness of the season like no other: eggnog. This Eggnog Pound Cake takes everything you love about that classic holiday drink and turns it into a dense, moist, and buttery cake that’s simply irresistible. It’s the kind of dessert that fills the kitchen with the aroma of nutmeg and vanilla, instantly putting everyone in a festive mood.

This cake is a celebration in every bite. The rich flavor of eggnog blends beautifully with the tender crumb of the pound cake, making it perfect for dessert, brunch, or even a sweet holiday breakfast. Whether you serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of spiced glaze, it’s bound to become a seasonal favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Eggnog Pound Cake

Eggnog lovers, this one’s for you. This pound cake delivers on every level: it’s easy to make, keeps beautifully, and the flavor just gets better with time. The subtle spice and creamy notes from the eggnog make each bite feel nostalgic and festive. And if you’re bringing this to a party or potluck, prepare for lots of recipe requests.

What Kind of Eggnog Should I Use?

Go with your favorite store-bought or homemade eggnog. Full-fat eggnog will yield the richest, most flavorful cake. Avoid the light versions, as they often lack the creaminess that makes this dessert shine. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making your own eggnog to use in the recipe—you might never go back to the carton again.

Ingredients for the Eggnog Pound Cake

This pound cake calls for classic baking staples and a generous pour of eggnog. Each ingredient plays a role in building that unmistakable holiday flavor and dreamy texture.

Unsalted butter
The foundation of any good pound cake, butter gives it richness and moisture.

Granulated sugar
Sweetens the cake and helps create that tender crumb we love.

Eggs
Add structure and richness, creating that classic pound cake density.

All-purpose flour
Gives the cake its shape and stability.

Baking powder
A touch of leavening to keep it from being too dense.

Salt
Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.

Eggnog
The star of the show! Brings in the signature holiday taste and creamy texture.

Vanilla extract
Adds warmth and rounds out the eggnog flavor.

Nutmeg
Optional but highly recommended for a cozy, spiced finish.

How To Make the Eggnog Pound Cake

Step 1: Cream the Butter and Sugar

Start by creaming the unsalted butter and sugar until light and fluffy. This step is key to creating that soft and airy cake texture.

Step 2: Add the Eggs One at a Time

Crack in the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition to ensure the batter stays smooth.

Step 3: Alternate the Dry and Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, and salt. Add this to the batter in thirds, alternating with the eggnog. Begin and end with the dry ingredients for the best texture.

Step 4: Add Vanilla and Nutmeg

Stir in the vanilla extract and freshly grated nutmeg. Don’t skip the nutmeg—it ties everything together.

Step 5: Bake

Pour the batter into a greased and floured loaf or bundt pan. Bake at 325°F for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick comes out clean.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Let the cake cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack. Serve as is or top with powdered sugar or glaze.

How to Serve and Store Eggnog Pound Cake

This cozy pound cake is best served at room temperature with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of nutmeg glaze. It pairs perfectly with coffee, tea, or a glass of chilled eggnog. One loaf serves about 8 to 10 people, making it ideal for holiday gatherings or festive family nights.

To store, wrap the cooled cake in plastic wrap or foil and keep at room temperature for up to 3 days. For longer storage, refrigerate it for up to a week, or freeze slices individually for up to 3 months.

What to Serve With Eggnog Pound Cake?

Hot Buttered Rum

Warm, spiced, and a perfect complement to the rich flavors of the cake.

Coffee with Cinnamon Cream

The boldness of coffee balances the sweetness, and a touch of cinnamon cream adds a festive twist.

Cranberry Compote

Bright and tangy cranberries cut through the richness beautifully.

Vanilla Ice Cream

A scoop of cold ice cream on warm pound cake is pure bliss.

Spiced Whipped Cream

Light and airy with a hint of cinnamon or nutmeg.

Maple Glazed Bacon

For a sweet and salty breakfast pairing, this is divine.

Fresh Berries

A handful of raspberries or pomegranate seeds makes for a beautiful and tasty contrast.

Want More Cake Ideas with Holiday Flavors?

If you loved this Eggnog Pound Cake, you’ll enjoy diving into more seasonal treats:

• Try the Butter Pecan Cheesecake for creamy decadence.
• Our Pumpkin Bread With Maple Cream Cheese Filling is a cozy fall favorite.
• For something nostalgic and vibrant, bake Mama Seward’s Iconic Strawberry Cake.
• The Carrot Pound Cake brings warmth and texture together beautifully.
• Or switch things up with Whimsical Cotton Candy Cookies for a playful dessert.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dessert board so you can come back to it any time.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out. Did you add a glaze or keep it classic? Did you serve it warm or chilled?

I love hearing how others make these recipes their own. Questions are welcome too—let’s help each other bake smarter.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting drinks on Zoe Recipes on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

This Eggnog Pound Cake is everything holiday desserts should be—simple, satisfying, and full of flavor. Whether you’re baking it for a cozy night in or to share at a festive gathering, it brings comfort and cheer to every table. Make it once and it might just become part of your holiday tradition.

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