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As the holiday season approaches, my kitchen transforms into a symphony of delightful aromas and warm memories. One of my favorite festive treasures is this Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake. The moment you pull it from the oven, the sweet scent of cinnamon and nutmeg dances in the air, creating an inviting atmosphere that beckons family and friends to gather around.

I first stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy evening spent scrolling through old cookbooks, and it quickly became a must-have for our holiday celebrations. With its moist crumb and rich flavors, this Bundt cake captures the essence of eggnog while being incredibly easy to whip up—making it perfect for even the most hectic holiday schedules.

Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or simply looking for a special treat to enjoy with loved ones, this cake promises to be both a showstopper and a comfort. So, grab your mixing bowl, and let’s create a festive centerpiece that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why is Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake so special?

Festive flavors: This cake integrates the beloved taste of classic eggnog, infused with warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, making every slice a holiday delight.
Easy preparation: With straightforward steps, even novice bakers can whip this up without fuss, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones.
Impressive presentation: The Bundt shape is not only visually striking but also makes it an impressive centerpiece for holiday tables.
Versatile serving: Whether you enjoy it plain, with a dusting of powdered sugar, or drizzled with a sweet glaze, it suits any occasion perfectly.
Make-ahead friendly: Bake this cake a day in advance and let the flavors meld overnight—perfect for holiday planning! Treat your guests to a delightful slice of tradition and warmth, and watch them return for more!

Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake Ingredients

For the Cake

All-Purpose Flour – Provides structure to the cake; substitute with gluten-free flour for a gluten-free option.
Baking Powder – Helps the cake rise for that perfect fluffy texture.
Ground Cinnamon – Adds warmth and festive flavor; consider fresh cinnamon for an extra aromatic touch.
Ground Nutmeg – Enhances the holiday spice profile; fresh nutmeg really elevates the aroma.
Salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the overall flavor.
Unsalted Butter – Ensures moisture and richness; margarine can be used as a substitute if needed.
Granulated Sugar – Sweetens the batter; brown sugar can be used for a deeper flavor.
Brown Sugar – Adds moisture and deeper sweetness for a delightful bite.
Eggs – Bind ingredients together and provide essential structure to the cake.
Vanilla Extract – Adds depth of flavor; you can swap it for almond extract for a twist.
Eggnog – Infuses the cake with its signature flavor; non-dairy eggnog is a great substitute.
Rum – Enhances the flavor profile—feel free to leave it out for a non-alcoholic version.

For the Glaze (optional)

Powdered Sugar – Sweetens and gives a lovely finish; mix with a bit of eggnog for a festive touch.
Eggnog – Use to create a smooth glaze that complements the cake beautifully.

This Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake is not just a dessert; it’s an experience wrapped in flavors that celebrate the holiday spirit!

How to Make Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake

Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) to create the perfect baking environment for this festive treat.
Mix Dry Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt. This will ensure an even distribution of flavors—set it aside.
Cream Butters and Sugars: In a separate bowl, beat the unsalted butter with granulated and brown sugars until light and fluffy—this should take about 3-4 minutes.
Add Eggs and Vanilla: Incorporate the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition, then add the vanilla extract to enrich the flavor.
Combine Mixtures: Gradually fold in the dry ingredient mixture to the butter mixture, alternating with the eggnog and rum. Mix just until combined to ensure a tender cake!
Prepare the Bundt Pan: Grease a 12-cup Bundt pan thoroughly for easy removal later, then pour in the batter, smoothing the top to ensure even baking.
Bake the Cake: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Cool the Cake: Once done, let the cake cool in the pan for about 5 minutes, then invert it onto a wire rack to cool completely before serving.

Optional: Drizzle with a simple glaze made from powdered sugar and eggnog for extra sweetness.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake Variations

Feel free to elevate this holiday delight with fun twists that will spark your imagination and tantalize your taste buds!

Gluten-Free: Substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend for a cake everyone can enjoy.
Spiced Rum: Use spiced rum instead of regular for a deeper flavor, drawing out the warm notes of the spices.
Citrus Burst: Add the zest of an orange or lemon for a refreshing citrus kick that beautifully complements the eggnog.
Nutty Flavor: Fold in chopped pecans or walnuts to add delightful crunch and rich flavor to each slice.
Dried Fruits: Incorporate dried cranberries or raisins for a sweet and chewy surprise that enhances the festive vibe.
Fruity Glaze: For a fruity twist, mix powdered sugar with cranberry juice instead of eggnog for a vibrant glaze.
Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzle melted chocolate over the cooled cake for a decadent finish that contrasts with the spiced flavors.
Vegan Version: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal or applesauce and use vegan butter and eggnog for a delightful plant-based cake.

Embrace the joy of baking by making this recipe your own, creating cherished memories with each variation!

Storage Tips for Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake

Room Temperature: Store the cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.

Fridge: For longer freshness, refrigerate the cake, where it can last up to 1 week. Be sure to wrap it well to prevent it from drying out.

Freezer: To freeze, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil; it can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before serving.

Reheating: If desired, reheat slices in the microwave for about 15-20 seconds for a warm treat, bringing back that delightful, cozy festive feel in every bite of your Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake.

What to Serve with Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake?

The holidays are all about creating memorable moments around the table, and what better way to enhance your festive gatherings than with delightful accompaniments to this luscious cake?

Whipped Cream:
A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a light, airy texture that balances the richness of the cake, enhancing every bite with a delightful creaminess.
Cinnamon Sugar Dusting:
A light sprinkle of cinnamon sugar creates a sweet finishing touch, elevating the cake’s baked-in spices and making each slice feel even more festive.
Spiced Apple Cider:
The warmth of spiced apple cider pairs beautifully with the cake, providing a cozy drink that complements the cake’s rich flavors and holiday spirit.
Vanilla Ice Cream:
A scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream offers a delicious contrast to the moist cake, and when it slightly melts into the warm cake, it is pure magic.
Chocolate Ganache:
Drizzling decadent chocolate ganache over the Bundt cake introduces a rich, indulgent element that will leave chocolate lovers in bliss.
Fruit Compote:
A bright, tangy fruit compote made from cranberries or cherries cuts through the cake’s sweetness, adding a refreshing burst that brightens the entire dessert experience.
Holiday Cookie Platter:
Serve a variety of holiday cookies alongside the cake to create an inviting dessert table, allowing guests to indulge in an assortment of festive treats.
Eggnog Latte:
For those who truly want to lean into the holiday theme, a spiced eggnog latte will echo the flavors in the cake, making for a warm, joyful pairing.

Expert Tips for Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake

Avoid Overmixing: Stop mixing as soon as the dry ingredients are combined to keep the cake tender and fluffy.
Greasing the Pan: Properly grease the Bundt pan to prevent sticking; consider using a non-stick spray for easier removal.
Cool Completely: Allow the cake to cool completely on a wire rack before serving or frosting; this ensures it holds its shape beautifully.
Room Temperature Ingredients: Use room temperature eggs and butter for a smoother batter, which contributes to the moistness of the Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake.
Fresh Spices: Opt for fresh ground nutmeg and cinnamon for a more intense flavor and fragrant aroma, enhancing your festive baking experience.

Make Ahead Options

This Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake is perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during the holiday rush! You can bake the cake up to 24 hours in advance and let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap to maintain its moisture. For even better flavor, refrigerate it overnight as the spices will deepen. Additionally, you can prepare the glaze ahead of time; simply store it in the refrigerator and drizzle it over the cake just before serving. When you’re ready to enjoy, allow the cake to come to room temperature for a few minutes, and it will be just as delicious as when it was freshly baked.

Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake Recipe FAQs

How do I select the right ingredients for my Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, use fresh spices like ground cinnamon and nutmeg. When picking eggs, choose ones that are free-range if possible for richer taste. Also, opt for high-quality eggnog; it brings a delightful creaminess to the cake. If you can, try using fresh nutmeg—grate it yourself for the most aromatic result!

How should I store my Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake?
You can store your cake in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, which helps preserve its moisture. If you want it to last longer, wrap it well and refrigerate for up to a week. Just make sure it’s stored properly to avoid drying out—an airtight container is key!

Can I freeze my Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the cooled cake tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. For best results, after it’s thawed, you can give it a quick warm-up in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to bring back that amazing texture.

What should I do if my Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake sinks in the middle?
This can happen due to several reasons, but overmixing the batter is a common culprit. Ensure you’re mixing just until combined when adding the flour mixture. Also, check your oven temperature with an oven thermometer—sometimes they can be off, leading to improper baking. Lastly, be sure to use fresh baking powder to ensure proper leavening!

Is this Christmas Eggnog Bundt Cake safe for pets or those with allergies?
While the flavors are delightful for humans, it’s best avoided for pets as ingredients like nutmeg can be toxic to dogs and cats. If allergies are a concern, you can often substitute with allergy-friendly alternatives—like gluten-free flour or non-dairy eggnog—but be sure to check the specific person’s dietary needs.

Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Very! In fact, making the cake a day in advance can enhance its flavor as it sits. Just store it well and let those wonderful flavors meld overnight. You can even prepare the cake and freeze it up to 3 months in advance for convenience—perfect for busy holiday schedules!