The holiday season calls for cozy, comforting desserts, and this Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake is the perfect addition to any holiday gathering. With its rich, spiced eggnog flavor, buttery cake, and sweet, crumbly topping, it’s a dessert that feels festive and indulgent without being overly complicated. The soft, moist cake is infused with the warm flavors of nutmeg and cinnamon, while the crumb topping adds a sweet, crunchy contrast.
Eggnog is the star ingredient in this cake, giving it a creamy, spiced flavor that is reminiscent of the beloved holiday drink. The cake is easy to make, and the best part is that it fills your kitchen with the comforting smells of the season as it bakes. Whether you’re serving it for breakfast with a cup of coffee or as a dessert after dinner, this Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake will quickly become a holiday tradition in your home.
Perfect for family get-togethers, holiday brunches, or cozy winter nights, this cake is a simple yet elegant treat that brings the spirit of the season to life with every bite. Get ready to make a cake that’s just as delicious as it is festive!
Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake is a rich and flavorful cake that combines the festive flavor of eggnog with a buttery, crumbly topping. This easy-to-make cake is infused with the warm spices of nutmeg and cinnamon, making it perfect for holiday gatherings, brunches, or cozy dessert moments.
The moist, eggnog-flavored cake pairs perfectly with the sweet, crunchy crumb topping, creating a balanced texture and flavor. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, this cake is quick to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a holiday gathering or just craving a seasonal treat, this cake is sure to be a hit.
Exciting Story:
I first made this Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake after finding myself with leftover eggnog from a holiday party. I was craving something sweet and comforting, and I thought, “Why not make a cake that combines the flavors of eggnog with the soft, buttery goodness of a crumb cake?” The result was better than I imagined—light, spiced, and with that perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
The first time I served it, my family was hooked. Everyone loved how the eggnog flavor came through so perfectly in the cake, and the crumb topping was the perfect touch of sweetness. Since then, it’s become a regular feature at our holiday brunches and even for casual gatherings. It’s one of those recipes that feels special but is so easy to whip up, making it the perfect dessert to share with friends and family.
Every time I bake this cake, it fills the house with the warmth and smells of the season. I love how it brings everyone together, and it’s a simple yet impressive way to treat guests without all the hassle of a complicated dessert. The best part is how easily it’s become a tradition in our home—one bite, and you’ll understand why!
Why This Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake:
- Festive Flavor: The warm spices of cinnamon and nutmeg, combined with the rich eggnog, make this cake the perfect holiday treat.
- Moist and Flavorful: The cake is incredibly moist thanks to the eggnog, making each bite indulgent and satisfying.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this cake comes together quickly and easily, perfect for beginner bakers.
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a holiday brunch, a family gathering, or just a cozy dessert, this cake fits right into any occasion.
- Delicious Crumb Topping: The sweet, buttery crumb topping adds the perfect crunch to complement the soft cake beneath.
What You Need For Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake:
For the cake:
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
- ½ teaspoon baking soda
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 tablespoon dark rum (optional, for added flavor)
For the crumb topping:
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
How to Make Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake:
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the eggnog. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Stir in the rum (if using) for added flavor.
- Prepare the crumb topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping. Add the cold butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the top of the cake batter.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Once cooled, slice the cake and serve. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or as a dessert for any holiday gathering!
Tips for Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake:
- Chill the Butter for the Topping: Make sure to use cold butter for the crumb topping to achieve the best crumbly texture.
- Don’t Overmix: When adding the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients, mix until just combined to avoid a dense cake.
- Make It Ahead: This cake can be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature.
Substitutions and Variations:
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cloves to the cake batter for more holiday spice.
- Non-Dairy Version: Substitute the eggnog with a dairy-free eggnog alternative and use vegan butter to make the cake dairy-free.
- Nut-Free: Omit any nuts in the topping to make it nut-free if necessary.
- Add-ins: Try adding a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts tothe crumb topping for a bit of crunch.
Make a Healthier Version:
- Lower-Sugar: Use a sugar substitute like Stevia or Monk Fruit in place of the regular sugar for a reduced-sugar version.
- Lower-Fat: Substitute the butter with a lower-fat option like Greek yogurt or applesauce to cut down on fat.
- Whole Grain: Use whole wheat flour instead of all-purpose flour for a more wholesome, fiber-rich cake.
Closing for Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake:
And there you have it! This Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake is a deliciously festive treat that combines the warmth of eggnog with the comfort of a crumb cake. Whether you’re serving it at a holiday brunch, as a sweet snack, or as a dessert for a family gathering, this cake is sure to be a hit. Let us know how it turns out, and be sure to check out more of our easy holiday recipes for even more festive inspiration!
Frequently Asked Questions For Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake:
Can I make this cake ahead of time?
Yes! This cake stores well and can be made a day ahead. Just keep it in an airtight container at room temperature.
Can I use a store-bought eggnog?
Yes, store-bought eggnog works perfectly, but homemade eggnog will add an extra special touch if you have the time.
Can I freeze this cake?
Yes, this cake freezes well! Just wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw before serving.
Can I use non-dairy milk in this recipe?
Yes, you can use a non-dairy milk like almond milk or oat milk in place of regular milk if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.
How can I make the crumb topping extra crunchy?
Make sure to use cold butter for the topping, and press the crumbs into the batter before baking for a firmer texture.
What can I serve this cake with?
This cake is perfect on its own, but you can also serve it with a dusting of powdered sugar, whipped cream, or even vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Can I add nuts to the crumb topping?
Yes! Feel free to add chopped pecans or walnuts to the topping for added texture and flavor.
What if I don’t have rum?
The rum adds a subtle depth of flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer, or substitute it with a teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Can I make this cake gluten-free?
Yes, you can substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend to make this cake gluten-free.
How long will this cake last?
Stored in an airtight container at room temperature, the cake will last for 3-4 days. It can also be refrigerated for up to a week.
Can I use a different fruit juice instead of orange?
Yes, you can use apple juice or lemon juice for a different twist on the flavor.
What size pan should I use?
A 9-inch round or square pan works perfectly for this recipe, but you can also use an 8-inch round pan if you prefer a slightly thicker cake.
Can I make this cake without the crumb topping?
Yes, you can skip the crumb topping for a simpler cake, but it adds a nice texture and sweetness to the finished dessert.
What can I use instead of nutmeg?
If you don’t have nutmeg, you can substitute it with ground cinnamon or a pinch of ginger for a different flavor profile.
This Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake is the perfect holiday dessert—easy, flavorful, and irresistibly festive! Enjoy it with family and friends for a cozy treat this season!
Easy Eggnog Crumb Cake
Course: Cake, Snacks4
servings30
minutes40
minutes300
kcalIngredients
- For the cake:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder
½ teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 cup granulated sugar
2 large eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 cup eggnog
1 tablespoon dark rum (optional, for added flavor)
- For the crumb topping:
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, cold and cut into small cubes
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Directions
- Preheat and prepare the pan: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease and flour a 9-inch round or square cake pan, or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Make the cake batter: In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, baking soda, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Set aside. In a large bowl, cream together the softened butter and sugar until light and fluffy. Add the eggs, one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Add the wet and dry ingredients: Gradually add the dry ingredients to the butter mixture, alternating with the eggnog. Start and end with the dry ingredients. Mix until just combined. Stir in the rum (if using) for added flavor.
- Prepare the crumb topping: In a small bowl, combine the flour, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg for the topping. Add the cold butter and use a fork or pastry cutter to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Assemble the cake: Pour the cake batter into the prepared pan and spread it evenly. Sprinkle the crumb topping over the top of the cake batter.
- Bake the cake: Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cake to cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack to cool completely.
- Serve: Once cooled, slice the cake and serve. Enjoy with a cup of coffee or as a dessert for any holiday gathering!