Looking for a delightful way to elevate your breakfast game? Dive into the cozy flavors of the season with our Eggnog French Toast Bake! This scrumptious dish is perfect for holiday gatherings or a leisurely weekend brunch, combining the rich, creamy essence of eggnog with the comforting familiarity of French toast. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering centerpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your family and friends? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, and brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Cut the loaf of bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let the cubes sit out for 15-20 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps them absorb the custard mixture better.
- Add the bread cubes to the eggnog mixture and gently fold until all bread pieces are evenly coated. Allow the bread to soak for 5-10 minutes, pressing down occasionally to ensure thorough absorption.
- Transfer the soaked bread mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the bread cubes to ensure a golden, crispy surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. The edges should be slightly crispy, and the middle should be soft and custardy.
- Remove from the oven and let the French toast bake rest for 5-10 minutes to allow it to set and cool slightly.
- Dust generously with powdered sugar before serving. For extra indulgence, serve with maple syrup, whipped cream, or additional nutmeg sprinkled on top.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, opt for a sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or a thick-sliced white bread. Day-old bread works wonders as it absorbs the custard mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Soak Time is Key: Allow the bread cubes to soak in the eggnog mixture for at least 10 minutes. Press down gently to ensure every piece is fully coated and absorbs that delicious custard.
- Don’t Skip the Butter: Drizzling melted butter on top before baking is crucial for achieving that golden, crispy crust. It adds flavor and helps create a delightful texture contrast.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of rum extract can enhance the holiday spirit and give your bake a unique twist.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch of indulgence, serve your Eggnog French Toast Bake with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream. Garnish with a sprinkle of nutmeg for that festive flair!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 420kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 180mg