Overnight Eggnog French Toast Bake (Perfect for Holiday Breakfast)

A decadent serving of Eggnog French toast drizzled with syrup and topped with fresh strawberries, blueberries, and bananas, dusted with powdered sugar for a perfect breakfast treat.

Holiday mornings can be hectic, especially when you want to serve something delicious and festive without spending hours in the kitchen. This Eggnog French Toast Bake is the perfect solution. It’s a make-ahead breakfast casserole soaked in rich eggnog and warm spices, ready to pop into the oven while you enjoy the company of family and friends. This dish combines the comforting flavors of French toast with the creamy sweetness of eggnog, making it a standout among Christmas brunch recipes.

Why Choose Eggnog French Toast for Holiday Mornings?

Eggnog French toast offers a festive twist on a classic breakfast favorite. The eggnog adds a creamy texture and a subtle nutmeg and cinnamon flavor that feels like the holidays in every bite. Preparing this casserole the night before means you can wake up to a warm, aromatic kitchen without the stress of last-minute cooking. It’s ideal for parents, grandparents, stay-at-home moms, and caregivers who want to enjoy the holiday spirit without sacrificing time or taste.

This dish also scales well for larger groups, making it a practical choice for family gatherings or holiday brunches with friends. Plus, it pairs beautifully with fresh fruit, maple syrup, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this Eggnog French Toast Bake, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 loaf of thick-cut bread (brioche or challah works best), cut into cubes

• 4 large eggs

• 2 cups eggnog

• 1 cup whole milk

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract

• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Pinch of salt

• Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish

• Optional toppings: chopped pecans, powdered sugar, maple syrup, fresh berries

  
  

These simple ingredients come together to create a rich and flavorful breakfast casserole that feels indulgent but is easy to prepare.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread

Cut your bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. Using a sturdy bread like brioche or challah ensures the casserole holds its shape and soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.

2. Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. This custard mixture is the heart of the dish, infusing the bread with warm, festive flavors.

3. Combine Bread and Custard

Place the bread cubes in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Pour the custard evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to make sure all pieces soak up the liquid.

4. Refrigerate Overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This step allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a creamy, custardy texture after baking.

5. Bake the Casserole

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean.

6. Add Toppings and Serve

Sprinkle chopped pecans on top before baking for a crunchy texture, or add fresh berries and a dusting of powdered sugar after baking. Serve warm with maple syrup on the side.

Tips for the Best Eggnog French Toast Bake

• Choose the right bread: Day-old bread works best because it absorbs the custard without falling apart. Avoid very soft or thin slices.

• Use quality eggnog: The flavor of the eggnog is key, so pick a brand you enjoy or make your own if you prefer.

• Customize spices: Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste. Some like a little extra warmth, while others prefer a lighter touch.

• Add mix-ins: For variety, try folding in chocolate chips, dried cranberries, or chopped apples before soaking.

• Make it nut-free: Skip nuts if you have allergies and add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top instead.

  
  

Why This Recipe Works for Christmas Brunch Recipes

This eggnog French toast bake fits perfectly into holiday menus because it can be prepared ahead, freeing up time on busy mornings. It also offers a festive flavor profile that complements other seasonal dishes like roasted ham, fresh fruit platters, and warm beverages like coffee or hot cocoa.

Families with children will appreciate the sweet, creamy taste, while adults will enjoy the nostalgic holiday spices. It’s a crowd-pleaser that feels special without requiring complicated steps or ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this casserole with:

• Fresh orange slices or a mixed berry salad for a bright contrast

• Crispy bacon or sausage for a savory balance

• A warm pot of coffee, spiced tea, or hot apple cider to complete the cozy meal

  
  

This combination makes your holiday brunch both satisfying and memorable.