Elevate Your Christmas Celebrations with this Decadent High-Protein Treat
I’m beyond excited to share a little holiday magic with you through my latest creation: this High-Protein Eggnog Bread Pudding. If you need a quick and delicious dessert to whip up this Holiday Season, then you have to try out this recipe. Whether you’re a die-hard eggnog enthusiast or someone who’s just testing the waters, get ready for a flavor explosion that might just redefine your holiday go-tos. It’s creamy, it’s sweet, it’s hearty, and it will be a fan favorite!
Picture this—it’s that time of year when your kitchen becomes a hub of warmth, filled with the delightful scents of the season. Now, imagine elevating that experience with a treat that’s not just a healthy dessert; it’s a whole mood, a cozy celebration wrapped up in a single bite.
This isn’t just about a recipe; it’s about embracing the joy and flavors that make Christmas feel so darn special. So, slip into your comfiest cooking attire, turn up the holiday tunes, and let’s dive headfirst into the decadence of this festive delight!
Macros Per Serving
160 Calories | 27g Carbs | 6g Fat | 15g Protein
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Uncover the elegance within simplicity as we explore the creamy fusion of eggnog, effortless preparation of the bread pudding, and the irresistible flavor palette of this delightful high-protein seasonal treat.
- Creamy Perfection: Immerse yourself in the luxurious fusion of a velvety custard and the wholesome, nutrient-packed embrace of the seeded protein bread pudding.
- Effortless Simplicity: Unravel the layers of this delectable dessert through a surprisingly simple recipe, boasting just a handful of straightforward steps for each element.
- Irresistible Flavors: Succumb to the temptation of warm cinnamon, nutmeg’s delicate spice, and the nuanced richness of vanilla, elevating this dessert to a festive masterpiece.
- Quick Gratification for Last-Minute Delights: Revel in the joy of a last-minute holiday dessert, as this indulgent delight comes together seamlessly in a mere 45 minutes with the prep time only being 15 minutes.
Key Ingredients for this Eggnog Bread Pudding
Craft a harmonious blend of flavors with key ingredients such as velvety eggnog, protein plant milk, and a textured embrace of seeded protein bread.
Bread Pudding –
- Light Egg Nog: Adds a rich, velvety base that sets the tone for the entire creation but also keeps it macro friendly.
- Protein Plant Milk: Balance out the eggnog with a plant-powered protein boost, adding both nutritional value and a creamy consistency.
- Seeded Protein Bread: Serves as our hearty foundation, offering a textured and nutrient-dense canvas.
- Vanilla Protein Powder: Elevate both the flavor, sweetness, and protein content with 15g of this essential ingredient.
- Vanilla Extract, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Salt: Create a symphony of seasonal spices with a teaspoon of vanilla extract, half a teaspoon of cinnamon, dashes of nutmeg, and a pinch of salt.
Eggnog Custard –
- Light Egg Nog: Maintain the creamy consistency in your custard, ensuring a harmonious blend with the bread pudding.
- Vanilla Protein Powder: Enhance the custard’s protein profile and help with sweetness, contributing to the overall nutritional balance.
- Unsalted Butter: Infuse a velvety richness with some high quality butter, elevating the custard’s texture and flavor.
- Sugar-Free Vanilla Pudding Mix: This last ingredient will add a sweet, guilt-free flavor boost, ensuring a delightful and well-balanced experience whilst creating a thick and creamy custard texture.
Substitution Options
Experiment with some different bread variations, sweetener alternatives, and fruit infusions to customize your festive creation.
- Bread Variations: Explore different protein bread types or flavors to tailor the dish to your preferences and introduce a personalized touch. You can use challah, brioche, etc but keep in mind it will alter the macros for the recipe.
- Sweetener Alternatives: Experiment with alternative sweeteners such as honey or maple syrup to adjust the sweetness level according to your taste. The protein powder I used added enough sweetness for me but it may not for you.
- Protein Powder: Vanilla Protein Powder is always a great versatile flavor to use in baking dishes but feel free to experiment with other flavors. If wanting to eliminate, replace with half portioning of your preferred sweetener.
**If there is a sub I haven’t mentioned above, it’s because I have not tested it and can’t speak for how well it would work for this recipe.
Equipment and Tools
Equip yourself with essential kitchen tools – things you most likely already have around the house – to seamlessly bring together the elements of this delightful dessert.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Assemble a cohesive batter for the bread pudding, ensuring a smooth and consistent texture. Pick a bowl large enough to hold the batter as well as mix in the cubed bread.
- Measuring Scale: I prefer to use a scale to weigh out all the larger ingredients for a more precise measurement.
- Baking Dish (7.5”x11”): Select the perfect sized baking dish for even portions and optimal baking, ensuring a visually appealing and delicious end result. I would suggest not using anything larger than 7.5″ by 11″. If using a smaller dish, adjust the baking time as needed.
- Small Pot: Essential for simmering the custard to perfection, allowing for precise temperature control and a velvety finish.
With these basic tools and equipment, you’ll be well-prepared to create a gorgeous and yummy delight that will wow your guests and ensure a smooth baking process.
How to Make Your High-Protein Eggnog Bread Pudding
Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of bringing this High-Protein Eggnog Bread Pudding masterpiece to life. First things first, preheat that oven of yours to a cozy 350°F—because we’re about to make your kitchen the heart of holiday magic. Follow this step by step guide to ensure you get the perfect healthy dessert to serve to your guests this Christmas season.
Prepare the Bread Pudding
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 120ml of Light Egg Nog and 120ml of Protein Plant Milk. Now, toss in 15g of Vanilla Protein Powder, a teaspoon of Vanilla Extract, half a teaspoon of Cinnamon, dashes of Nutmeg, and a pinch of Salt. Give it all a good whisk until it’s smoother than your favorite holiday playlist.
Now comes the fun part—toss in 8 slices of cubed Seeded Protein Bread. Make sure each piece gets a good soak in this flavor-packed concoction.
Lightly oil spray a baking dish (I used an 7.5”x11”), pour in the eggnoggy bread goodness, and let it bake for 30 minutes.
Picture your kitchen filled with the tempting aroma—trust me, it’s worth the wait.
Simmer the Eggnog Custard
While the bread pudding works its magic in the oven, let’s tackle the custard.
Grab a small pot and combine 180ml of Light Egg Nog, 7g of Vanilla Protein Powder, 7g of Unsalted Butter, and 6g of Sugar-Free Vanilla Pudding Mix.
Simmer this mixture on low heat, whisking away until it reaches a velvety consistency. Keep a close eye on it, ensuring it’s ready by the time your bread pudding is.
If it ends up getting too thick, just add in a couple splashes of water until desired consistency.
Assemble and Serve
Once that oven timer chimes, take out your golden-baked bread pudding. Now, slice it into 6 squares because sharing is caring, right?
Top each square with a generous dollop of the eggnog custard—trust me, it’s the yin to the yang of your bread pudding. Finish off this festive masterpiece with a bit of whipped cream, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a dusting of powdered sugar.
Picture it: a plate filled with holiday joy, ready to be devoured. And there you have it, my friend—a slice of pure Christmas delight!
Pro Tip for Later Indulgence
Planning to savor this treat over a few days? Keep the bread and custard separate when storing. That way, when the craving hits, you can reheat them separately and experience the festive freshness all over again.
So, put on your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of holiday goodness fill your home. This High-Protein Eggnog Bread Pudding is not just a recipe; it’s a journey to a cozy, flavor-packed holiday haven. Enjoy every bite!has context menu
Tips and Tricks
Master the art of optimal oven temperature, smart storage, and spreading joy by sharing slices of this indulgent bread pudding with friends and neighbors.
- Optimal Oven Temperature: Preheat the oven to 350° for a perfectly baked and golden bread pudding, ensuring a delightful visual appeal and ideal texture. Oven temperatures will vary so make sure to keep a close eye!
- Storage Tips: Keep the bread and custard components separate when storing for later indulgence, preserving the freshness and quality of each element upon reheating.
- Spread the Joy: Extend the festive spirit by sharing slices with neighbors or friends, turning this culinary creation into a heartwarming gesture and a delightful holiday gift.
- Bake Ahead: You can prep and make this dish ahead of time and keep both the pudding base and eggnog custard separately. Then when ready to serve, top with the custard and cut away!
Storage Instructions
Now, let’s talk about keeping the magic alive for a little longer. If you find yourself with some leftover High-Protein Eggnog Bread Pudding (lucky you!), here’s the lowdown on storing this holiday gem.
- Separate Components for Freshness: To maintain that freshly baked goodness, consider storing the bread pudding and eggnog custard separately. This ensures that each component retains its unique texture and flavor, ready to be reunited when the craving strikes. For the bread pudding, let it cool to room temperature before covering it with plastic wrap or transferring it to an airtight container. Store the eggnog custard in a separate container, making sure it’s also sealed tight. Pop both into the refrigerator, and they’ll stay fresh for 3-4 days.
- Reheating: When the moment arrives to relish your healthy dessert once more, take the bread pudding and custard out of the fridge. For the eggnog bread pudding, a quick spin in the microwave or a gentle reheating in the oven will revive its warmth and fluffiness. The eggnog custard might need a gentle stir and a brief warm-up too for that warm gooey flavor.
- Room Temperature or Refrigeration: While these cookies are generally fine at room temperature for several days, if you plan to store them for an extended period, consider refrigeration. The cold environment helps maintain freshness.
By storing smartly and reheating with care, you’re ensuring that every bite of your High-Protein Eggnog Bread Pudding remains a festive celebration, even if it’s a day or two after the initial baking extravaganza. So, go ahead, savor the joy of the season a little longer!
More Dessert Recipes
Who doesn’t love a good guilt-free healthy dessert?? I am all about them, which is why you can find plenty more recipes on my website that I know you will love.
- Protein-Packed Crescent Roll Apple Tarts
- Chocolate Chip Cookie Skillet
- Single-Serve Apple Cinnamon Rolls
- Cream Cheese Pumpkin Loaf
FAQs
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Can I use regular egg nog instead of the light version?
Absolutely! Feel free to choose your preferred egg nog, adjusting the sweetness to align with your taste preferences. Keep in mind the macros will increase accordingly.
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Any suggestions for a dairy-free alternative to butter in the custard?
Opt for coconut oil or a plant-based margarine to maintain a creamy, dairy-free profile while still achieving the desired richness.
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Can I make this bread pudding ahead and reheat it?
Certainly! For optimal freshness, store the bread and custard separately and reheat to savor the festive goodness later, maintaining both flavor and texture.
As you savor each decadent bite of my High-Protein Eggnog Bread Pudding, I hope it becomes a sweet memory woven into your holiday traditions. From the cozy aroma that fills your kitchen from this healthy dessert to the joyous reunions around the table, this recipe is more than just a treat—it’s a celebration of festive flavors and shared moments.
Whether you’re relishing it fresh out of the oven or indulging in the reheated bliss of leftovers, may this culinary creation add a sprinkle of magic to your holiday season.
Wishing you warm kitchens, full hearts, and a deliciously memorable Christmas! Cheers to good food, great company, and the joy of the season. Until our next culinary adventure, happy holidays!
Recipe Card
Healthy Eggnog Bread Pudding
Ingredients
Bread Pudding:
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) Light Egg Nog (H-E-B)
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) Protein Plant Milk (Good Karma)
- 2 Whole Large Eggs (Vital Farms)
- 15 g (1/2 scoop) Vanilla Protein Powder (Optimum Nutrition)
- 1 tsp Vanilla Extract
- ½ tsp Cinnamon
- Dashes of Nutmeg
- Pinch of Salt
- 8 slices of Seeded Protein Bread (cubed (Higher Harvest))
Eggnog Custard:
- 180 ml (3/4 cup) Light Egg Nog (H-E-B)
- 7 g (1/4 scoop) Vanilla Protein Powder (Optimum Nutrition)
- 7 g (1/2 tbsp) Unsalted Butter (Vital Farms)
- 6 g (1/2 tbsp) Sugar Free Vanilla Pudding Mix (Simply Delish)
To Top:
- Cinnamon
- Powdered Sugar
- Fat Free Whipped Cream
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°.
Bread Pudding
- In a large bowl, add in all of your ingredients besides the cubed bread. Whisk until smooth and then toss in your bread. Evenly coat everything and then pour into a lightly oiled sprayed baking dish (I used an 7.5”x11”). Even it out and then bake for 30 minutes.
Eggnog Custard
- Meanwhile, add in your custard sauce ingredients to a small pot. Simmer on low heat while continuously whisking. Keep at a low boil and whisk until the bread base is done.
Assembly
- Slice your bread pudding into 6 squares and top each off with 1/6th of your custard. Add some whipped cream and sprinkle with cinnamon and powdered sugar.
Video Tutorial
Nutrition Information
The Nutrition Facts above are specific to the ingredients I chose to use for this recipe.
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DID YOU MAKE THIS RECIPE?
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Sarah says
Made this for the holidays last year and it was such a hit!! Definitely on my list to make again this year.