The first time I baked Eggnog French Toast Casserole, it instantly became a holiday tradition in my home. The kitchen filled with the cozy scent of nutmeg, cinnamon, and custardy eggnog as the casserole puffed up golden in the oven. Each slice was rich, creamy, and just the right amount of festive—like the classic breakfast bake we all love, but with that unmistakable holiday eggnog twist. It’s indulgent, comforting, and perfect for sharing with family on Christmas morning or at any winter brunch.
What I love most about this casserole is how effortless it feels. You assemble it the night before, let the bread soak up all that eggnog custard, and then simply pop it in the oven the next morning. It’s hearty enough to serve as the star of breakfast, but it also pairs beautifully with fruit or savory dishes for balance. Best of all, it feeds a crowd without stress—which makes it a lifesaver during the busy holiday season.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Eggnog French Toast Casserole is festive, rich, and incredibly easy to make. The bread soaks overnight in a custard made with eggnog, eggs, and warm spices, creating a texture that’s creamy inside yet golden and crisp on top. The eggnog adds sweetness and holiday spice, meaning less sugar and fewer ingredients are needed for flavor.
It’s also a true crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for a Christmas brunch, a holiday potluck, or simply to treat your family on a cold morning, this casserole delivers big flavor with little effort. Plus, it’s customizable—you can add toppings like pecans, caramel drizzle, or dried cranberries to make it your own.
What You’ll Need
- 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread (about 12 cups cubed)
- 2 cups eggnog
- 5 large eggs
- ½ cup granulated sugar (or brown sugar)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Toppings
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Chopped pecans
- Dried cranberries
Pro Tips
- Use day-old bread so it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
- Let it rest overnight for best flavor and texture.
- Bake uncovered for the last 10 minutes to crisp the top.
- Check doneness—the center should be set but still slightly soft.
- Top just before serving so everything stays fresh and crunchy.
Tools You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
Substitutions and Variations
- Bread options: Use French bread, Italian bread, or sourdough.
- Dairy-free: Use almond or oat-based eggnog.
- Nutty version: Add toasted pecans or almonds to the top before baking.
- Boozy twist: Add 1–2 tablespoons of rum or bourbon to the custard.
- Sweet variation: Swirl in caramel or chocolate chips before baking.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Assemble casserole the night before and refrigerate. Bake fresh in the morning.
- Bake ahead, refrigerate, and reheat in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 20 minutes.
- Freeze unbaked casserole for up to 2 months—thaw overnight, then bake.
How to Make Eggnog French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Prepare Bread
Grease a 9×13 baking dish. Cube the bread and spread it evenly in the dish.
Step 2: Make Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth.
Step 3: Combine
Pour custard evenly over bread cubes. Press bread down gently so it soaks up the mixture. Cover and refrigerate overnight (or at least 2 hours).
Step 4: Bake
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge, uncover, and drizzle with melted butter. Bake for 40–45 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
Step 5: Serve
Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, and garnish with pecans or cranberries if desired.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm with maple syrup and fresh fruit.
- Add crispy bacon or sausage on the side for a sweet-and-savory brunch.
- Pair with a hot cup of coffee, chai, or mulled cider for a holiday vibe.
- Dress it up with whipped cream for a dessert-like presentation.
Leftovers & Storage
Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or rewarm the whole dish in the oven at 325°F (160°C). Freeze baked casserole for up to 2 months; thaw overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Benefits
Eggnog French Toast Casserole is indulgent but provides a good source of protein from eggs and calcium from the milk in eggnog. Using day-old bread reduces waste, and adding nuts or fruit can boost fiber and nutrients. It’s a satisfying breakfast that balances comfort with wholesome ingredients.
Recipe FAQ
1. Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old?
Yes, but lightly toast cubes first to dry them out.
2. Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, just use dairy-free eggnog and butter alternatives.
3. Can I bake it right away without chilling?
Yes, but chilling overnight gives the best texture.
4. How do I know it’s done?
The top should be golden and the center should no longer jiggle.
5. Can I add fruit?
Absolutely—cranberries, raisins, or apple slices work beautifully.
6. Can I make individual portions?
Yes, bake in ramekins for 20–25 minutes.
7. Can I serve it cold?
It’s best warm, but chilled leftovers taste great too—almost like bread pudding.
Festive, Cozy, and Perfect for Sharing
This Eggnog French Toast Casserole is everything you want in a holiday breakfast: festive, comforting, and easy to prepare. With its creamy custard, golden top, and hint of holiday spice, it’s a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Whether for Christmas morning or any winter brunch, this casserole is guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite.