Name: Eggnog French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 1 loaf Brioche bread (Cut into cubes); 4 large Eggs; 2 cups Eggnog; 1 tsp Vanilla extract; 1/2 cup Brown sugar; 1 tsp Ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup Butter (Melted)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Ah, eggnog! The creamy, spiced goodness that instantly wraps you in a warm holiday hug. Honestly, there’s something magical about this time of year, and my favorite way to celebrate is by whipping up an Eggnog French Toast Casserole. It’s the perfect centerpiece for holiday gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table with its inviting aroma and rich flavors. I remember the first time I made this dish for our family Christmas brunch. The way my kids’ eyes lit up as they dug into that fluffy, custardy goodness topped with a sprinkle of warm cinnamon? Pure joy! Trust me, this casserole not only tastes divine but it also fills your home with that unmistakable festive spirit. Whether you’re hosting a big family feast or just enjoying a cozy morning with loved ones, this Eggnog French Toast Casserole is sure to become a cherished tradition in your home, just like it is in mine.

eggnog french toast casserole - detail 1

Ingredients for Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Gathering the right ingredients is key to creating a mouthwatering Eggnog French Toast Casserole that everyone will love. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 loaf Brioche bread, cut into cubes: This soft, buttery bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious eggnog mixture.
4 large Eggs: You’ll need these for the custard base, giving your casserole its rich texture.
2 cups Eggnog: The star of the show! Use your favorite store-bought or homemade eggnog.
1 tsp Vanilla extract: This adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the eggnog.

For the topping, you’ll need:

1/2 cup Brown sugar: This adds sweetness and a caramel-like flavor.
1 tsp Ground cinnamon: A warm spice that enhances the holiday vibe.
1/4 cup Butter, melted: This binds the topping together and gives it a delightful richness.

Feel free to get creative! You can also consider adding nuts or dried fruits for an extra touch of flavor.

How to Prepare Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated! You’ll want to set it to 350°F (175°C). Preheating is so important because it ensures your casserole bakes evenly and comes out with that perfect golden-brown crust.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large bowl, grab your whisk and combine the eggs, eggnog, and vanilla extract. Whisk them together until everything is well blended and frothy. This is the custard base that’s going to give your casserole its delicious, creamy texture. Don’t rush this part; you want it to be nice and smooth!

Combine Bread with Egg Mixture

Now it’s time to add that lovely cubed brioche bread to your egg mixture. Gently fold the bread cubes into the mixture, making sure every piece is coated. This is key for soaking up all that eggnog goodness! You really want to ensure that no dry pieces are left behind, so take your time with this step.

Let the Mixture Sit

After everything is combined, let the mixture sit for 10 minutes. This resting time allows the bread to absorb all that custardy goodness, making your casserole extra fluffy and flavorful. Trust me, it’s worth the wait!

Prepare the Topping

While that’s resting, let’s whip up the topping! In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and melted butter. This mixture will create a delicious, sweet crunch on top of your casserole that everyone will love. It’s like the cherry on top, but even better!

Assemble and Bake

Now, pour your egg and bread mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the brown sugar topping over the top, making sure to cover it well. Bake in your preheated oven for about 45 minutes, or until it’s golden brown and a bit puffed up. You’ll know it’s done when the edges are slightly crispy and the center is set.

Cool and Serve

Once it’s out of the oven, let your casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. This will help it to firm up a bit. I love to serve it warm, maybe with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for that extra holiday flair. Enjoy every bite of this festive breakfast treat!

Nutritional Information

Alright, let’s talk nutrition! While this Eggnog French Toast Casserole is undeniably a treat, it’s good to know what you’re indulging in. Here are some estimated nutritional values per serving:

Calories: 350
Fat: 15g
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Sugar: 20g

Keep in mind, these values are estimates and can vary based on ingredient choices and portion sizes. Enjoying this casserole as part of a balanced breakfast is the way to go, especially during those festive holiday mornings!

Tips for Success

To make sure your Eggnog French Toast Casserole turns out perfectly every time, I’ve got a few handy tips to share! First, use stale brioche bread if you can. It soaks up the eggnog mixture better, giving you that dreamy texture. If your bread is fresh, just leave it out for a bit to dry out before cutting it into cubes.

Next, don’t rush the soaking process! Letting the bread sit in the egg mixture for those 10 minutes is crucial. This step ensures each piece is saturated and flavorful. Oh, and a good greasing of your baking dish is a must! No one wants a casserole that sticks.

Keep an eye on it while it bakes; ovens can vary. If it’s browning too quickly, cover it with foil for the last few minutes. Lastly, serve it warm for the best experience, and don’t forget those fun toppings like whipped cream or a sprinkle of nutmeg for that extra holiday cheer!

Variations of Eggnog French Toast Casserole

If you’re looking to add a little twist to your Eggnog French Toast Casserole, the possibilities are endless! One of my favorite variations is to mix in some chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for an added crunch and nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the creamy eggnog. You could also toss in some dried cranberries or raisins for a pop of sweetness and a hint of chewiness.

Feeling adventurous? Try adding a splash of rum or bourbon to the egg mixture for a festive kick! And don’t forget about spices—experimenting with nutmeg or even a hint of pumpkin spice can elevate the flavor profile. Each of these modifications brings a unique flair to this holiday classic!

FAQ About Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Q1. Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?
Absolutely! While brioche adds a delightful richness, you can use challah, French bread, or even whole wheat bread. Just make sure it’s a bread that can soak up the eggnog mixture well for that perfect texture.

Q2. How can I store leftovers?
If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so delicious!), let the casserole cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven until warmed through.

Q3. Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the casserole the night before. Just follow the instructions up to the baking step, cover it, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.

Q4. Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Certainly! You can substitute the eggnog with a dairy-free version and use a plant-based milk (like almond or oat milk) in place of the regular milk in the eggnog. Just make sure to check the other ingredients for any dairy content as well.

Q5. What can I use instead of eggs for a vegan version?
For a vegan Eggnog French Toast Casserole, you can use flax eggs or chia eggs as a substitute. Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed or chia seeds with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg, let it sit until it thickens, and then incorporate it into your mixture. It works wonders!

For more delicious recipes and ideas, check out our Pinterest page!