If you’re a fan of cozy holiday flavors and tender, buttery cakes, then this Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe is going to become your new favorite treat. Blending the rich creaminess of classic eggnog with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon, this cake offers a delicate balance of sweet, spice, and everything nice. Every slice is moist, flavorful, and perfect for bringing a festive touch to your dessert table or your afternoon coffee break. I promise, once you try this recipe, it will quickly earn a special place in your baking repertoire.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple pantry staples, but each one plays an important role in creating that perfect Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe texture and flavor. From the flour that forms the cake’s structure to the eggnog that adds moisture and a festive twist, every element is essential for a delicious outcome.

2 cups all-purpose flour: Provides the perfect foundation with a tender crumb that holds everything together beautifully.
1 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the cake evenly and helps create a soft, moist texture.
1 tsp baking powder: Gives the cake a light lift, ensuring it’s not too dense.
1/2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, balancing sweetness and spice perfectly.
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened (1 stick): Adds richness and creates that melt-in-your-mouth crumb.
3 large eggs: Bind the ingredients and add structure for a tender bite.
1 cup eggnog: Infuses the cake with creamy holiday flavor and keeps it wonderfully moist.
1 tsp vanilla extract: Elevates the overall flavor with warm, sweet notes.
1 tsp ground nutmeg: Adds that signature festive spice, perfectly warming the palate.
1 tsp ground cinnamon: Offers a cozy aroma and a gentle spicy kick that complements the nutmeg.

How to Make Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and generously grease a loaf pan. This small but important first step ensures your cake will bake evenly and come out smoothly without sticking. A little butter or nonstick spray works great here.

Step 2: Combine Dry Ingredients

In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking powder, salt, nutmeg, and cinnamon. Mixing these dry ingredients thoroughly distributes the spices and rising agent evenly, which is key to consistent flavor and texture throughout your cake.

Step 3: Cream Butter and Sugar

In a separate large bowl, beat the softened butter and granulated sugar together until the mixture is light and fluffy. This creaming process is the secret to a tender, airy cake, as it incorporates air and helps the sugar dissolve properly.

Step 4: Add Eggs, Eggnog, and Vanilla

Beat in the eggs one at a time, making sure each egg is fully incorporated before adding the next. Then stir in the eggnog and vanilla extract until the batter is smooth and well combined. The eggnog brings that classic holiday flavor and luxuriously moist texture that sets this cake apart.

Step 5: Mix Dry Ingredients into Wet

Gradually add the dry ingredients into your wet mixture, gently folding or mixing until just blended. Avoid overmixing here, as this will keep your pound cake tender rather than tough or dense.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Pour the batter into your prepared loaf pan and bake for 60-70 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once done, let the cake rest in the pan for about 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely. This cooling step sets the crumb and makes slicing easier.

How to Serve Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe

Garnishes

A simple dusting of powdered sugar over the cooled cake works wonders to brighten the look and flavor. For extra charm, sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or freshly grated nutmeg on top. You can also add a drizzle of simple eggnog glaze or a dollop of whipped cream to make each slice even more special.

Side Dishes

This Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe pairs beautifully with warm beverages like spiced chai tea, hot coffee, or a cup of cocoa. Serve alongside fresh berries or a light fruit compote to contrast the richness and bring some freshness to your dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive gathering, consider slicing the pound cake into bite-sized pieces and arranging them on a decorative platter with seasonal garnishes like cranberries or sprigs of rosemary. You can also serve slices topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a spoonful of caramel sauce for an indulgent twist that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once completely cooled, wrap the pound cake tightly in plastic wrap or store it in an airtight container. It will stay fresh and moist for up to 3 days when stored at room temperature, making it perfect if you want to bake it ahead of time for holiday festivities.

Freezing

If you want to keep your Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Slice the cake and wrap individual pieces or the whole loaf tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Place it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge.

Reheating

To revive any leftover slices, warm them gently in a microwave for about 15-20 seconds or in a preheated oven at 300°F until just warmed through. This refreshes the cake’s soft texture and aroma, making it taste fresh like the day you baked it.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought eggnog for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought eggnog works perfectly in this Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe, adding that creamy, nostalgic flavor. Just be sure to shake it well before measuring.

Is it possible to make this cake dairy-free?

You can substitute the butter with a plant-based margarine and use dairy-free eggnog alternatives to make the cake dairy-free, though the texture may be slightly different but still delicious.

Can I add alcohol to the cake?

Yes! A splash of rum or bourbon mixed into the eggnog before adding it to the batter can add an adult twist that complements the spices wonderfully.

How do I know when the pound cake is fully baked?

The best test is inserting a toothpick or skewer into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean or with just a few moist crumbs, your cake is perfectly baked.

Can I make this cake in a bundt pan instead of a loaf pan?

Definitely! Just be prepared for a slight change in baking time — start checking around 50 minutes and adjust as needed. The bundt shape adds a fun and festive presentation.

Final Thoughts

This Eggnog Pound Cake Recipe is a heartwarming way to bring the spirit of the season into your kitchen and onto your dessert plate. Its tender crumb, delicate spice, and rich eggnog flavor will have friends and family asking for seconds. Don’t hesitate to give it a try — I’m sure it will become a beloved classic in your home just like it is in mine!