Christmas morning calls for recipes that are festive, comforting, and wonderfully easy to prepare. This Eggnog French Toast Bake is everything you love about classic French toast transformed into a cozy casserole that can be prepared ahead of time.
Rich eggnog, warm cinnamon, and soft cubes of bread bake together into a golden, custardy breakfast that feels perfect for the holiday season. Whether you’re opening gifts, enjoying a leisurely morning with family, or hosting overnight guests, this make-ahead breakfast helps make Christmas morning feel a little more magical.
Ingredients
1 loaf day-old French bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes
4 large eggs
2 cups eggnog
½ cup milk
¼ cup maple syrup
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
¼ tsp ground nutmeg
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
Icing sugar, for serving (optional)
Directions
Lightly grease a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, eggnog, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and melted butter until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing gently to ensure all the bread absorbs the liquid.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the centre is set.
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving.
Dust lightly with icing sugar, if desired.
A Beautiful Holiday Detail
For a festive finish, garnish with fresh cranberries, a little orange zest, and a dusting of icing sugar. It creates a beautiful snow-kissed presentation that looks lovely on the Christmas breakfast table.
Beauty Benefits
Eggs provide protein, while milk and eggnog contain calcium and vitamin D. Paired with fresh fruit, this comforting breakfast can be part of a balanced and nourishing holiday morning.
Make-Ahead Tip
Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate overnight. In the morning, simply place it in the oven and enjoy a stress-free Christmas breakfast.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm larger portions in a 325°F (165°C) oven until heated through.
Makes 8 servings.
