Christmas Eggnog Cherry Nut Loaf

Nothing quite captures the essence of the holiday season like the cozy aroma of freshly baked treats filling your home. Today, I’m excited to share with you a delightful recipe that will surely become a favorite in your holiday baking repertoire – Christmas Eggnog Cherry Nut Loaf. This festive loaf combines the rich flavors of eggnog, tart cherries, and crunchy nuts to create a perfect treat for a cozy gathering or a thoughtful gift for loved ones. Let’s dive into the recipe and get baking!

**Ingredients:**

– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup eggnog
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dried cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped
– Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

**Instructions:**

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan. Set aside.

2. In a bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, and salt until well combined. Set aside.

3. In a separate large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.

4. Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.

5. Stir in the eggnog and vanilla extract until smooth.

6. Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture, mixing until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.

7. Gently fold in the chopped dried cherries and nuts until evenly distributed throughout the batter.

8. Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan and smooth the top with a spatula.

9. Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

10. Remove the loaf from the oven and allow it to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.

11. Once cooled, dust the top of the loaf with powdered sugar for a festive finish.

12. Slice the Christmas Eggnog Cherry Nut Loaf and serve with a cup of hot cocoa or your favorite holiday drink.

This delightful Christmas Eggnog Cherry Nut Loaf is sure to be a hit with your family and friends this holiday season. The combination of eggnog, cherries, and nuts creates a delicious flavor and a lovely texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you enjoy it for breakfast, as an afternoon snack, or as a sweet treat after dinner, this festive loaf is a perfect addition to your holiday baking traditions. So, gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and let the aroma of Christmas fill your home with warmth and joy. Happy baking!