If you’re on the hunt for a festive treat that perfectly blends the cozy warmth of holiday spices with the creamy delight of eggnog, you have to try this Eggnog Coffee Cake with Brown Sugar Streusel and Eggnog Glaze Recipe. This cake is a showstopper, boasting a tender crumb soaked in rich eggnog and topped with a buttery, brown sugar streusel that crunches delightfully with every bite. The luscious eggnog glaze drizzled on top adds just the right note of sweetness and spice, making it an irresistible centerpiece for any brunch or holiday gathering. Trust me, once you take a forkful of this cake, it’s going to become your go-to recipe to share and savor again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled table with baking ingredients neatly arranged. There is a stick of butter on brown paper in the bottom left corner, next to a red-handled grater. Two brown eggs are placed near the center. On the left side, a white bowl contains brown sugar, cinnamon, and flour. Next to it is a small bowl of white sugar with a silver spoon. In the middle, there are small white bowls holding ground spices and salt. A bottle of vanilla extract is standing near the right side, close to a white bowl filled with light brown sugar. At the top right, an additional white bowl holds a mix of flour and other ingredients. A glass with a light frothy drink sits on a red coaster shaped like a snowflake, and a white cloth with red designs is draped across the top left part of the surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The magic of this Eggnog Coffee Cake with Brown Sugar Streusel and Eggnog Glaze Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that inviting golden color you crave. From the creamy tang of Greek yogurt to the aromatic nutmeg and cinnamon, everything comes together perfectly for a cake that feels both familiar and special.

½ cup butter (softened): This adds richness and helps create a tender crumb.
1 cup granulated sugar (High Altitude ¾ cup): Sweetens the cake while assisting with moisture and structure.
2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness, binding the batter together.
1 cup Eggnog (H.A., add extra tablespoon or two): The star ingredient that infuses the cake with that classic holiday flavor.
1 cup Greek yogurt (plain; or sour cream): Adds moistness and tang to the cake for an extra tender texture.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract (or rum extract): Enhances the deep warm flavors, complementing the eggnog perfectly.
2 ½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour (add ¼ cup for H.A.): The foundation of the cake that gives it structure and chew.
1 ½ teaspoons baking powder (reduce to 1 teaspoon for H.A.): Helps the cake rise beautifully light and fluffy.
½ teaspoon baking soda: Works with the yogurt to give lift and softness.
½ teaspoon kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor complexity.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a warm nutty spice that embodies the essence of eggnog.
½ cup brown sugar (light or dark): For the delicious streusel topping that adds crunch and caramel notes.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps the streusel hold together perfectly.
2 tablespoons butter (room temp): Incorporates into the streusel for buttery richness.
½ teaspoon cinnamon: A classic spice that pairs beautifully with nutmeg in the topping.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Reinforces that seasonal, comforting flavor in the streusel.
½ cup chopped pecans (optional): Adds delightful crunch and a nutty contrast if you like a bit of texture variation.
½ cup powdered sugar: The main sweetness base for the silky glaze.
1 tablespoon eggnog: Infuses the glaze with that unmistakable eggnog taste.
⅛ teaspoon nutmeg: A subtle spice finish in the glaze that ties the whole cake together.

TIP

You’ll find the full ingredient list, instructions, and print option in the recipe card below.

How to Make Eggnog Coffee Cake with Brown Sugar Streusel and Eggnog Glaze Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Pan and Streusel Topping

Before diving into the batter, this step sets you up for success. Thoroughly grease your baking pan—whether a 9×13 inch or a 10-cup bundt pan either will work beautifully—using a flour-based baking spray or butter dusted with flour to ensure the cake releases easily. Then, whip up the brown sugar streusel by mixing together brown sugar, softened butter, cinnamon, nutmeg, and pecans if you’re using them. You want a mixture that clings together when squeezed—this streusel promises that delightful crunchy topping that contrasts the soft cake inside.

Step 2: Cream Butter, Sugar, and Add Eggs

In a large bowl or your stand mixer’s bowl, cream the butter with granulated sugar until it’s light, fluffy, and pale in color. This aeration is what makes the cake so tender! Then add the eggs one at a time, beating on low speed for about a minute after each addition to incorporate well. Be sure to scrape down the sides so nothing is left behind.

Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients and Combine Dry Ingredients

Next, whisk together eggnog, Greek yogurt, and vanilla extract in a measuring cup. This clever trick saves you a bowl and makes adding alternating ingredients much easier. In a separate large bowl, sift or whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and nutmeg to evenly distribute all those leavening agents and spices throughout the batter.

Step 4: Combine Wet and Dry, Spread in Pan, and Add Streusel

Now the fun begins. Alternately add the flour mixture and eggnog mixture to your creamed butter and sugar, half a cup at a time, beating well after each addition. This gradual mixing keeps your batter velvety smooth while activating the leavening for a perfect rise. Pour the batter into your prepared pan, smooth the top, and generously sprinkle the streusel over the batter. If you’re using a bundt pan, you can either sprinkle streusel on top or layer it in the middle for a stunning swirl inside your cake.

Step 5: Bake and Cool

Bake your eggnog coffee cake at 350°F (or 375°F for high altitude) on the center rack—about 30-35 minutes for the 9×13 pan and 40-50 minutes for the bundt pan. Use a toothpick to test doneness; it should come out with just a few moist crumbs clinging. Let the cake cool in the pan for 10 minutes, then invert onto a rack to cool completely. This cooling time is essential to set the crumb so it slices beautifully.

Step 6: Optional Overnight Prep and Make the Eggnog Glaze

Pressed for time? Assemble the cake and streusel the night before and refrigerate. Bring it to room temperature while preheating the oven and bake as usual—so convenient! Once cooled, whisk powdered sugar, eggnog, and a pinch of nutmeg together to create a smooth, drizzling glaze. Pour it generously over the cake for that perfect glossy finish that screams holiday cheer.

How to Serve Eggnog Coffee Cake with Brown Sugar Streusel and Eggnog Glaze Recipe

A grey bundt pan filled with two layers: the bottom layer is a smooth, light yellow batter evenly spread out, while the top layer is a thick, crumbly brown streusel topping scattered all over the batter. The pan edges are shaped with ridges, and the pan sits on a white marbled surface with some green pine leaves, a red felt snowflake decoration, and white pine cones blurred in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

This cake is stunning on its own, but why not jazz it up? Sprinkle a little extra chopped pecans or a dusting of cinnamon and nutmeg on top of the glaze just before serving to add a final aromatic touch and a hint of texture that guests will love.

Side Dishes

Serve a warm slice alongside a cup of freshly brewed coffee or spiced chai tea to complement the cake’s spicy-sweet notes. It also pairs beautifully with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of lightly whipped cream for an indulgent brunch or dessert experience.

Creative Ways to Present

For holiday parties, slice the cake into bite-sized squares and skewer them with festive picks to serve as a grab-and-go treat. You could even drizzle extra glaze in a zigzag pattern across a platter for a pretty presentation. For a tiered dessert table, place whole bundt cakes in varying glaze designs to add eye-catching variety.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap any leftover Eggnog Coffee Cake with Brown Sugar Streusel and Eggnog Glaze Recipe tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to three days. This keeps the cake moist and the streusel crisp enough to enjoy fresh-tasting bites later.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooled cake, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil, for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and bring it to room temperature before serving. The glaze might soften a bit but the cake will remain delicious and tender.

Reheating

Warm your slices gently in the microwave for 15-20 seconds or in a low oven (about 300°F) for 10 minutes to refresh that fresh-baked texture and bring back the gooey goodness of the streusel topping.

FAQs

Can I use sour cream instead of Greek yogurt?

Yes! Sour cream will work wonderfully in this recipe and create the same moist texture and slight tang that Greek yogurt provides. Choose whichever you have on hand or prefer for taste.

Is this recipe suitable for high altitude baking?

Absolutely! The recipe includes specific adjustments for high altitude like reducing sugar and baking powder, and adding a bit of extra flour and eggnog for moisture. Just follow those tips for perfect results.

Can I add other nuts or omit nuts entirely?

Feel free to swap pecans for walnuts, almonds, or hazelnuts depending on your taste. If you’re not a nut fan or have allergies, simply leave them out for a smooth streusel topping that’s just as delicious.

How long can I store the glaze?

The eggnog glaze is best used fresh after mixing but can be stored in the fridge for up to two days in an airtight container. Stir well before using as it may thicken or separate slightly.

Is it okay to assemble the cake the night before baking?

Yes, assembling the cake up to the streusel topping and refrigerating overnight is a great time-saver. Bring it to room temperature before baking to maintain that tender crumb and perfectly melted streusel.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about the Eggnog Coffee Cake with Brown Sugar Streusel and Eggnog Glaze Recipe that makes it a memorable addition to any holiday lineup or weekend treat. It’s a recipe that’s as welcoming as a warm hug, with layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re serving it at a festive brunch or cozying up with a slice and your favorite mug, this cake is bound to brighten your day and impress everyone lucky enough to taste it. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!