Eggnog French Toast Casserole

This Eggnog French Toast Casserole is my go to for cozy holiday brunches when family bustle and warm kitchens make the season feel magical. Rich eggnog and hints of spice transform simple bread into a tender custardy centerpiece everyone loves waking up to

I made this casserole for our first Christmas in a new home and every year since my kids ask for it by name before the tree is even decorated

Ingredients

• Texas Toast bread: Choose a thick cut bakery style loaf for the best soak and plush texture
• Eggs: Large eggs create a rich custard that holds the casserole together
• Eggnog: The star of this recipe for festive flavor and creamy sweetness Use a high quality full fat eggnog for best results
• Milk: Balances the richness of the eggnog and lightens the custard
• Rum flavoring: Gives an authentic holiday note without alcohol Pure extracts offer a smooth finish
• Cinnamon: Adds warmth and depth for that classic French toast taste Freshly ground cinnamon releases the most aroma
• Nutmeg: Brings gentle spice that pairs beautifully with eggnog For bold taste grate whole nutmeg
• Unsalted butter: Melting butter gives the topping a lovely crisp finish and rich flavor Look for butter with a sweet creamy aroma
• Light brown sugar: Creates the delicious caramelized crust Choose a soft moist sugar for easy blending
• Pecans (optional): For crunch and toasty nuttiness Toast before chopping to enhance flavor and avoid a bitter bite

Instructions

Mix the Custard:

Whisk together eggs eggnog milk and rum flavoring in a large bowl until smooth and well combined This creates a creamy base that soaks into every bread cube

Build the Casserole:

Dip each cube of Texas toast into the egg custard mixture so every bite is evenly coated Gently transfer the cubes into a nine inch baking dish and pour any remaining custard over all the bread This ensures no piece is dry

Season and Rest:

Sprinkle cinnamon and nutmeg evenly over the top of the soaked bread for fragrant flavor Cover the dish with foil and let it rest in the refrigerator overnight or at least four hours This time allows every piece to fully absorb the custard

Prepare the Topping:

Combine melted unsalted butter with light brown sugar in a small bowl Stir until completely blended for a glossy mixture that creates the perfect sweet crust

Finish and Bake:

Pour the butter sugar mixture evenly over the casserole then add chopped pecans if using Bake uncovered at three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit one hundred seventy five Celsius for about forty minutes The top should be golden and bubbling and the center just set

Serve warm:

Scoop generously and savor every bite

My favorite part is always the golden brown edges that crisp up from the butter sugar topping My kids love sneaking into the kitchen before breakfast to beg for the first piece

Storage Tips

Cool leftovers completely before storing Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or transfer slices to an airtight container Refrigerate for up to three days For longer storage freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in foil and reheat in the oven until warmed through This casserole does not lose flavor or texture when frozen and reheated

Ingredient Substitutions

If you cannot find Texas toast thick cut brioche bread or challah work well Almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk for a dairy free option If you prefer to avoid eggnog try using a blend of milk and cream with extra vanilla and spice Walnuts or sliced almonds can substitute for pecans for nutty crunch

Serving Suggestions

For brunch serve warm dusted with a little powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup Pair with fresh fruit like orange slices or pomegranate seeds I sometimes place a dollop of whipped cream or Greek yogurt on top for extra indulgence This casserole can also be the centerpiece of a festive breakfast buffet

Cultural and Historical Context

French toast traces its roots to ancient recipes made to avoid wasting stale bread The classic version became popular both in Europe and America Adapting the flavors for holiday breakfasts with eggnog and spices is now a beloved modern tradition in many families

Seasonal Adaptations

Use pumpkin spice in place of cinnamon and nutmeg for an autumnal twist Add dried cranberries to the bread for pops of color and tartness Swap in chocolate chips for a sweeter dessert style casserole

Success Stories

This is the recipe my friends ask me to bring to every December brunch It has become our new tradition and someone always requests an extra pan to take home One memorable morning we made a double batch and the entire kitchen filled with the nostalgic scent of nutmeg and caramel

Freezer Meal Conversion

To freeze before baking assemble the casserole cover tightly and freeze for up to two months Thaw overnight in the refrigerator then bake as directed You can also freeze baked portions for individual brunch treats whenever you crave them

This casserole brings together tradition and convenience so you can savor the holidays without stress. It is sure to become a yearly favorite at your breakfast table

FAQs about Recipes

→ Can I use regular bread instead of Texas toast?

Thicker breads like Texas toast work best for absorbing the custard mixture, but French bread or brioche are tasty substitutes.

→ Is it necessary to soak the bread overnight?

Overnight soaking is recommended for maximum flavor, but at least 4 hours will allow the bread to absorb the mixture adequately.

→ Can this dish be made ahead?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake fresh in the morning for best texture.

→ What can I use instead of rum flavoring?

Vanilla extract makes a great alternative if rum extract isn't available or preferred.

→ How can I add crunch or texture?

Top with chopped pecans, walnuts, or a sprinkle of coarse sugar before baking for added crunch.

→ Can I adjust the sweetness?

Reduce brown sugar to taste, or use a sugar substitute as desired while maintaining texture and flavor.