The holiday season brings with it an air of excitement, warmth, and, of course, the irresistible aroma of freshly baked treats that make any gathering feel special. When it comes to holiday baking, there’s nothing quite like a cozy, spiced cake that perfectly complements the chill in the air. Enter Eggnog Coffee Cake with Nutmeg Streusel — a dessert that combines the festive flavors of eggnog, nutmeg, and cinnamon into a moist, tender coffee cake topped with a buttery, crunchy streusel. Ideal for Christmas morning, a winter brunch, or any festive gathering, this cake brings together the best of the season in every bite.
Whether you’re looking to impress guests or indulge in a sweet treat on a quiet winter morning, this cake is the perfect way to celebrate the season with loved ones. With rich, creamy eggnog flavor, a nutmeg-scented crumb topping, and the optional addition of a glaze, this cake is a true holiday showstopper.
What is Eggnog Coffee Cake with Nutmeg Streusel?
Eggnog Coffee Cake with Nutmeg Streusel is a twist on the classic coffee cake, designed to celebrate the flavors of the holiday season. This cake uses eggnog — a creamy, spiced drink typically enjoyed during the winter months — to create a rich and flavorful cake base. The nutmeg streusel topping adds a delightful texture, balancing the soft, tender cake beneath with its crunchy, spiced crunch. The beauty of this cake lies in the perfect harmony of flavors: the warmth of nutmeg and cinnamon in both the cake and streusel, the creamy eggnog that infuses the batter, and the optional eggnog glaze that gives it a smooth, sweet finish.
This cake is perfect for holiday brunches, family gatherings, or cozy mornings with a cup of hot coffee. It’s a decadent treat that pairs well with the season’s festivities and is sure to become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire.
Origin of Eggnog Coffee Cake
The concept of coffee cakes dates back to Europe, where cakes were commonly enjoyed alongside a cup of coffee, especially during breakfast or an afternoon break. The German version of the coffee cake, or “kaffee kuchen,” often featured spiced flavors and was known for its tender crumb and streusel topping. Over time, coffee cakes have been embraced in various cultures, particularly in North America, where they became a popular choice for informal gatherings and brunches.
Eggnog, on the other hand, has a much longer history, with its origins in medieval Europe. It was originally a drink made with milk, eggs, and spices, often enjoyed by the upper class. By the 18th century, it became a popular holiday beverage in North America, where it was often spiked with rum or brandy for an extra layer of richness and warmth. The idea of combining eggnog with coffee cake emerged as a way to bring the flavors of the beloved holiday drink into other baked goods, resulting in a cake that captures the essence of Christmas in every bite.
Ingredients (Serves 8–10)
This delicious Eggnog Coffee Cake with Nutmeg Streusel is made with simple, readily available ingredients that capture the flavors of the season. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Nutmeg Streusel:
- ½ cup (100g) granulated sugar – Adds sweetness and texture to the streusel topping.
- ½ cup (65g) all-purpose flour – Forms the base of the streusel, creating the crumbly texture.
- ½ cup (60g) chopped pecans or walnuts – Optional, but adds a rich, nutty flavor and crunch to the topping.
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg – The star spice of this recipe, nutmeg gives the cake its warm, festive flavor.
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon – Enhances the flavor profile of the streusel and complements the nutmeg.
- ¼ cup (56g) cold unsalted butter, cubed – Cold butter creates the perfect crumbly texture for the streusel topping.
Eggnog Cake:
- 2 cups (240g) all-purpose flour – The main structure of the cake.
- 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar – Sweetens the cake and balances the spices.
- 2 tsp baking powder – Helps the cake rise and stay fluffy.
- ½ tsp baking soda – Adds additional leavening, ensuring the cake remains light and tender.
- ½ tsp salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances the flavors.
- ½ tsp ground nutmeg – Adds depth and flavor to the cake, making it taste like a cozy winter treat.
- ½ cup (113g) unsalted butter, softened – Creates a tender crumb in the cake.
- 2 large eggs – Binds the ingredients and adds structure.
- 1 cup eggnog – The key ingredient that gives this cake its signature flavor.
- 2 tsp vanilla extract – Adds a rich, aromatic sweetness to the cake.
- 1 tbsp rum or bourbon (optional) – For those who enjoy a classic holiday touch, a splash of alcohol adds complexity to the flavor (can be omitted for a non-alcoholic version).
For the Eggnog Glaze (Optional but Perfect):
- 1 cup powdered sugar – Sweetens and thickens the glaze.
- 2–3 tbsp eggnog – Adds flavor and smoothness to the glaze.
- Pinch of nutmeg – A dash of nutmeg gives the glaze the same warm, spiced flavor as the cake.
Step-by-Step Directions and Preparation Method
1. Make the Nutmeg Streusel
- In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, chopped nuts (if using), nutmeg, and cinnamon.
- Add the cold butter and, using a fork or your fingertips, cut it into the dry ingredients until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Once combined, refrigerate the streusel mixture while you prepare the cake. Chilling the streusel helps keep it from melting into the cake batter and ensures it maintains its crisp texture once baked.
2. Make the Eggnog Cake
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9-inch square pan or any similarly sized baking pan.
- In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Add the softened butter to the dry ingredients and mix until the texture is sandy and crumbly. This step will help the butter incorporate evenly, giving the cake a soft, tender crumb.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, vanilla extract, and rum or bourbon (if using).
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Be careful not to overmix the batter, as this can result in a dense cake.
- Spread the batter evenly into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
- Take the chilled streusel and sprinkle it evenly over the top of the batter. This will create a beautiful, flavorful crust on the cake.
3. Bake the Cake
- Bake for 35–45 minutes, or until the top of the cake is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the cake to cool in the pan for at least 20 minutes before adding the glaze. This allows the cake to set and prevents the glaze from melting too much.
4. Add the Eggnog Glaze
- While the cake is cooling, whisk together powdered sugar, eggnog, and a pinch of nutmeg in a small bowl until smooth and creamy.
- Drizzle the glaze over the slightly warm or completely cooled cake, allowing it to soak into the streusel topping and add a silky finish to each bite.
Tips and Variations
1. Add White Chocolate Chips:
For a richer, more indulgent cake, fold in ½ cup white chocolate chips into the batter. The creamy, sweet white chocolate pairs wonderfully with the spiced eggnog flavor and adds a bit of extra sweetness to the cake.
2. Spice It Up:
If you enjoy a stronger spice flavor, add an extra pinch of nutmeg or even a dash of allspice to the cake batter. This will enhance the warming holiday flavors and give the cake an even more aromatic kick.
3. Cinnamon Sugar Ribbon:
Create a beautiful, layered effect by adding a cinnamon sugar ribbon in the middle of the cake. Simply sprinkle a mixture of cinnamon and sugar over half of the batter before adding the streusel. As the cake bakes, the cinnamon sugar creates a swirl in the center.
4. Make-Ahead Friendly:
This cake is perfect for make-ahead baking. Prepare it the night before and refrigerate it overnight. When you’re ready to serve it, simply glaze it in the morning. This will save you time and ensure the cake stays fresh and delicious.
5. Freezing Tip:
If you want to bake this cake in advance for a holiday gathering, it freezes beautifully. Allow the cake to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, thaw the cake and add the glaze just before enjoying.
FAQs
Can I make this coffee cake without the alcohol (rum or bourbon)?
Yes, the alcohol is completely optional in this recipe. It adds a nice depth of flavor to the cake, but you can easily omit it. If you prefer not to use alcohol, simply replace the rum or bourbon with a little extra eggnog for a non-alcoholic version that’s just as delicious.
Can I substitute the nuts in the streusel?
Absolutely! If you don’t have pecans or walnuts on hand, feel free to use whatever nuts you prefer, such as almonds, hazelnuts, or even skip the nuts altogether for a nut-free version.
Can I use a different type of flour for this recipe?
Yes, you can use whole wheat flour or gluten-free flour as alternatives. If you are using gluten-free flour, be sure to use a high-quality gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to maintain the cake’s texture.
Conclusion
Eggnog Coffee Cake with Nutmeg Streusel is more than just a holiday treat — it’s a celebration of all the flavors that make winter so special. With its rich, eggnog-infused cake base, spiced nutmeg streusel topping, and the option to finish it off with a decadent glaze, this cake is sure to become a go-to recipe for your holiday gatherings. Whether served at a festive brunch, as part of a Christmas morning breakfast, or as a sweet treat for any cozy winter day, this cake will make everyone feel the warmth and joy of the season. Indulge in this easy-to-make, yet impressive dessert, and let the flavors of eggnog and nutmeg bring festive cheer to your table.
