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Best Eggnog French Toast Bake: Easy Make-Ahead Christmas Recipe

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This make-ahead eggnog French toast bake is a rich, custardy Christmas morning miracle. Soak thick bread in a creamy eggnog custard overnight, then bake for a golden, slightly crisp top and a soft, bread pudding-like interior.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (480 ml) eggnog
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • ¼ cup (50 g) granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 loaf (about 1 lb or 450 g) brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons (28 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • Extra nutmeg and cinnamon for dusting
  • Maple syrup, for serving (optional)
  • Powdered sugar, for serving (optional)
  • Fresh berries or pomegranate arils, for serving (optional)
  • Whipped cream, for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the bread: Cut brioche or challah into 1-inch thick slices, then into 1 to 1.5-inch cubes (about 8-10 cups). If using fresh bread, spread on a baking sheet and let dry for 30 minutes.
  2. Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt until smooth and pale yellow.
  3. Assemble the bake: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the bread cubes in the dish, pour half the custard over, and press gently. Add remaining bread and custard, tossing to coat evenly.
  4. Overnight soak: Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably 8-12 hours (overnight).
  5. Bake: Remove dish from fridge and let sit 20 minutes while preheating oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove cover, brush top with melted butter, sprinkle with brown sugar, and dust with extra nutmeg and cinnamon. Bake 40-45 minutes until golden brown and center is set.
  6. Rest and serve: Let cool on a wire rack for 10 minutes. Cut into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and serve warm with maple syrup and fresh berries.

Notes

Do not skip the overnight soak; it ensures the bread fully absorbs the custard. Use stale or day-old bread for best texture. Let the bake rest 10 minutes after baking to set properly. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free brioche. For dairy-free, use dairy-free eggnog and butter substitute.

Nutrition

Keywords: eggnog French toast bake, make-ahead Christmas breakfast, overnight French toast casserole, holiday brunch recipe, eggnog breakfast casserole

Find it online: https://platebelle.com/best-eggnog-french-toast-bake-easy-make-ahead-christmas-recipe/