As the holidays approach, the scent of cinnamon mingling with nutmeg instantly evokes warm memories of cozy gatherings and festive breakfasts. That’s exactly what makes my Eggnog French Toast so special it captures the essence of those cherished moments in every delectable bite. One chilly morning, with the faint sound of holiday tunes in the background and leftover eggnog in the fridge, inspiration struck. I decided to transform this seasonal favorite into a breakfast delight that would please both kids and adults alike.
With its creamy custardy texture, this dish isn’t just a recipe; it’s an experience that screams celebration. Imagine crispy, caramelized slices, perfectly soaked in an eggnog-infused mixture that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether drizzled with maple syrup or topped with fresh berries and whipped cream, each forkful reminds us to savor the joy of togetherness, one breakfast at a time. So, gather your loved ones and let’s whip up this festive feast your mornings will never be the same!
Why will you love Eggnog French Toast?
Deliciously Festive: Enjoy a holiday twist on a classic breakfast with this scrumptious Eggnog French Toast, bringing cheer to your morning.
Custardy Perfection: The eggnog custard bath transforms ordinary bread into a delightful treat, creating a rich and creamy texture that’s sure to impress.
Family-Friendly Fun: This dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, loved by kids and adults alike, making it a memorable centerpiece for any festive breakfast.
Quick and Easy: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this breakfast delight, allowing more time to create wonderful holiday memories.
Customizable Options: Feel free to alter ingredients and spices to cater to your family’s preferences—whether you prefer rum, different bread types, or extra toppings.
Eggnog French Toast Ingredients
For the Bread
• Brioche or Challah Bread – Provides a soft, rich texture; substitute with a sturdy bread or gluten-free option if necessary.
For the Custard
• Large Eggs – Essential for structure and richness; no substitutes recommended for best results.
• Large Egg Yolks – Enhance the creaminess of the custard; cannot be substituted as it would affect texture.
• Eggnog (120 ml) – Acts as the custard base; use homemade or store-bought; could substitute with a non-dairy option for a dairy-free Eggnog French Toast.
• Ground Cinnamon – Adds warm spice flavor; feel free to increase or decrease based on your preference.
• Rum Extract or Dark Rum (1/4 c.) – Imparts additional depth; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
• Pure Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor profile; avoid imitation extracts for best quality.
• Ground Nutmeg – Provides a fragrant spice touch; can replace with allspice or eliminate if sensitive to strong spices.
• Kosher Salt – Balances sweetness; use sea salt if needed.
• Granulated Sugar (1/4 c.) – For caramelization and slight sweetness; adjust to taste if preferred less sweet.
For Cooking
• Unsalted Butter – Prevents sticking and adds flavor while cooking; can replace with oil for a dairy-free option.
For Serving
• Maple Syrup, Fresh Berries, and Whipped Cream – Suggested for serving; complements the dish’s flavors nicely.
How to Make Eggnog French Toast
- Prepare the Bread: Slice brioche or challah into 1-inch thick slices. For optimal texture, dry them out in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 10 minutes until slightly dried.
- Make the Custard: In a bowl, whisk together the large eggs, egg yolks, eggnog, cinnamon, rum extract, vanilla, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined. Make sure everything is blended smoothly.
- Soak the Bread: Submerge the bread slices in the custard mixture, ensuring they soak thoroughly for at least 30 minutes. For a richer flavor, soak overnight in the refrigerator.
- Cook the French Toast: In a skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the soaked bread slices, cooking until golden and caramelized on each side, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Sprinkle sugar before flipping for a delightful glaze.
- Serve: Plate the French toast warm and drizzle with maple syrup. For an extra festive touch, top with fresh berries and a dollop of whipped cream.
Optional: Dust with powdered sugar for a beautiful finish.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Eggnog French Toast?
Pair your cozy breakfast with delightful accompaniments that enhance the festive spirit of this dish.
- Maple Syrup: A classic pairing. The sweet, rich syrup perfectly contrasts the spices in the French toast, while offering a comforting nostalgia.
- Fresh Berries: Light and vibrant, fresh berries add a delightful tartness that balances the sweetness, making each bite even more enjoyable.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, a dollop of whipped cream is the cherry on top. It adds a creamy texture that makes the French toast feel indulgent.
- Spiced Coffee: Elevate your morning with a warm cup of spiced coffee. The warm flavors complement the holiday spices in your French toast beautifully.
- Hot Cocoa: Especially delightful during colder months, this sweet, chocolatey drink will bring cozy vibes and a touch of nostalgia to your breakfast table.
- Crispy Bacon: The savory saltiness of crispy bacon creates a perfect contrast to the sweet, custardy French toast. It’s a match made in breakfast heaven!
- Fruit Compote: A warm, spiced fruit compote brings a touch of elegance and warmth. The rich flavors heighten the overall richness of your meal, combining the senses perfectly.
- Nutty Granola: For a delightful crunch, sprinkle some nutty granola atop your French toast. It adds texture and a satisfying bite alongside your creamy indulgence.
- Powdered Sugar: A light dusting gives your dish a beautiful presentation and a touch of sweetness, making it feel extra special during festive mornings.
Embrace the joy of delicious pairings that bring out the best in your Eggnog French Toast!
Variations & Substitutions for Eggnog French Toast
Get ready to put your own spin on this delightful dish! Each variation promises to enhance your breakfast experience in a unique way.
- Dairy-Free: Use non-dairy eggnog as the custard base for a creamy alternative without dairy.
- Spice it Up: Swap ground cinnamon for pumpkin pie spice to infuse a seasonal burst of flavor, perfect for family gatherings.
- Gluten-Free Delight: Substitute brioche or challah with gluten-free bread, allowing everyone to join in on the festive feast.
- Extra Fruity: Add mashed bananas or pureed pumpkin to the custard for a sweet, flavorful twist that’s great for the colder months.
- Chocolatey Treat: Incorporate chocolate chips into the soaked bread mixture for a dessert-inspired breakfast that will delight chocolate lovers.
- Nutty Crunch: Top with sliced almonds or pecans for a satisfying crunch and extra nutrition. The contrast of flavors works beautifully with the custardy toast.
- Coconut Flare: Use coconut milk instead of eggnog for a tropical spin—just imagine how the creaminess complements the spices!
- Herbal Essence: Add a pinch of rosemary or thyme to the custard for an unexpected aromatic surprise that pairs wonderfully with the sweetness.
With these variations, you’re all set to make this Eggnog French Toast a truly personalized holiday treat!
Expert Tips for Eggnog French Toast
- Bread Selection: Use brioche or challah for the best custardy texture. If using other bread, ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the custard without falling apart.
- Soaking Time: Soak the bread for at least 30 minutes; overnight soaking intensifies flavor and texture. Don’t rush this step for the perfect Eggnog French Toast.
- Temperature Control: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside is cooked through. A well-cooked toast should be golden brown.
- Butter Method: For extra flavor, consider using clarified butter; it won’t burn as quickly and adds a lovely richness to the dish.
- Serving Fresh: Serve immediately after cooking for the best texture. If you’re preparing for a crowd, keep them warm in an oven set to low heat until ready to serve.
Make Ahead Options
Eggnog French Toast is perfect for busy mornings and can be easily prepared in advance! You can make the custard by whisking together all the ingredients and then soaking the bread slices up to 24 hours in advance; just be sure to refrigerate it tightly covered to prevent drying out. Soaking overnight allows the flavors to meld, resulting in a more custardy texture. When you’re ready to cook, simply melt some butter in a skillet over medium heat and fry the soaked bread slices until they’re golden and caramelized, which takes about 3-4 minutes per side. This time-saving method ensures that your holiday breakfast is ready to impress with minimal morning effort!
Storage Tips for Eggnog French Toast
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain that heavenly custardy texture and avoid sogginess.
- Freezer: Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: To reheat, place in a skillet over medium-low heat, cooking until warmed through. For added crispness, consider toasting them on a wire rack in the oven. Enjoy your Eggnog French Toast just like freshly made!
Eggnog French Toast Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Eggnog French Toast?
I recommend using brioche or challah for their soft and rich texture, which gives that perfect custardy bite. If you’re looking for something sturdy, sourdough or a gluten-free bread can also work beautifully.
How should I store leftover Eggnog French Toast?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until they’re warmed through, ensuring they maintain their delightful texture.
Can I freeze Eggnog French Toast?
Absolutely! Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They’ll stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or the oven.
What if my French toast turns out soggy?
Sogginess can occur if the bread is too soft or if it’s soaked for too long. Aim for a sturdy bread and soak for at least 30 minutes but no more than overnight. Always remember to dry out the bread slightly in the oven for a better texture.
Is Eggnog French Toast suitable for those with dairy allergies?
Yes! You can easily make this dish dairy-free by using a non-dairy eggnog and replacing butter with oil during cooking. You might also want to ensure that the bread you choose is dairy-free.
How can I elevate my Eggnog French Toast?
To elevate your dish, consider adding a dash of nutmeg or swapping out dark rum for vanilla extract for a different flavor. Don’t forget to top it with fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for that festive touch!
Eggnog French Toast: Your New Holiday Breakfast Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Slice brioche or challah into 1-inch thick slices. Dry them out in a 275°F (135°C) oven for 10 minutes.
- In a bowl, whisk together the large eggs, egg yolks, eggnog, cinnamon, rum extract, vanilla, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
- Submerge the bread slices in the custard mixture, ensuring they soak thoroughly for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for richer flavor.
- In a skillet, melt unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the soaked bread slices, cooking until golden on each side, about 3-4 minutes.
- Plate the French toast warm and drizzle with maple syrup. Top with fresh berries and whipped cream if desired.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar before serving.