Eggnog French Toast Recipe
If you’re searching for the ultimate breakfast that channels all the cozy cheer of the holidays, you have to try Eggnog French Toast. This delicious dish takes creamy, spiced eggnog and turns it into an irresistible custard for soaking thick slices of bread. As it cooks, the sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg will have everyone running to the kitchen. Whether you’re whipping it up for a festive brunch or just want to make a regular morning feel extra special, Eggnog French Toast is a must-try for anyone who loves a comforting, flavor-packed start to their day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
-
Bread:
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah)
Eggnog Mixture:
- 1 cup eggnog
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Additional:
- 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving (optional)
How to Make Eggnog French Toast
Step 1: Make the Eggnog Custard
In a wide, shallow bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. You want the mixture to be totally smooth and evenly combined, with those spices whisked in so nobody gets a surprise sprinkle of cinnamon later on. This step sets the foundation for every slice’s decadent flavor.
Step 2: Heat Your Skillet
Start warming a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Drop in the butter and let it melt until it’s foamy and shimmering. This is what will give your Eggnog French Toast that irresistible, golden crisp on the outside.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Dip one slice of thick-cut bread at a time into the custard, letting each one soak for a few seconds on both sides. Don’t rush this part! You want the bread to really absorb the eggnog mixture so your French toast turns out luxuriously moist—never dry.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Once your bread is soaked, carefully lay it onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until each piece is beautifully golden brown and cooked all the way through. If needed, add a little extra butter between batches for the best flavor and texture. Repeat until every slice is fragrant and caramelized.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Eggnog French Toast while it’s still warm from the skillet. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup takes it from delightful to unforgettable. Get ready for lots of happy faces around your breakfast table!
How to Serve Eggnog French Toast
Garnishes
Eggnog French Toast is a perfect blank canvas for all your favorite breakfast toppings! Classic powdered sugar and maple syrup are always a hit, but don’t be afraid to sprinkle on toasted nuts, fresh berries, a little whipped cream, or even a grate of extra nutmeg for extra flair. These simple finishes add color, crunch, and a fun festive vibe.
Side Dishes
Keep the holiday spirit rolling by pairing Eggnog French Toast with sides like crisp bacon, sausage links, or scrambled eggs for a savory balance. Want to lighten things up? A simple fruit salad or citrus segments offer a bright, refreshing contrast that lifts every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special brunch, try layering the French toast slices with mascarpone and cranberry compote, or cutting them into sticks for dipping. Serve individual stacks topped with sugared cranberries or a sprinkle of toasted coconut for a show-stopping twist on your holiday table. However you choose to plate it, Eggnog French Toast brings the celebration!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, let the slices cool to room temperature, then pack them in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to three days. They’ll still be soft and fragrant, ready to brighten up a busy morning.
Freezing
Eggnog French Toast freezes surprisingly well! Let the slices cool completely, then lay them in a single layer on a sheet pan and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag, separating layers with parchment for easy grabbing. They’ll stay delicious for up to two months.
Reheating
To refresh Eggnog French Toast, pop slices in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low-medium heat until warmed and slightly crisped. If you’re reheating a batch for brunch, you can also arrange them on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F for about 10 minutes.
FAQs
Can I use a non-dairy eggnog for this recipe?
Absolutely! There are plenty of almond, oat, and coconut-based eggnogs that work beautifully in this recipe. Just be aware that the flavor and richness may change slightly depending on which substitute you choose, but your Eggnog French Toast will still taste festive and delicious.
What’s the best bread for Eggnog French Toast?
Brioche and challah are classic choices because they’re sturdy and soft, but thick slices of Texas toast or French bread work well too. Day-old bread is ideal since it soaks up the custard without falling apart—it’s a classic French toast trick for a reason!
Can I make Eggnog French Toast in advance?
You can! Prepare the slices as directed, let them cool, and store them in the fridge. Reheat in a toaster or oven just before serving and they’ll be nearly as good as freshly made. This is a great trick for relaxed holiday mornings.
Can I add extra spices or extracts?
Of course! Feel free to toss in a pinch of ground ginger or cloves for more holiday spice, or add a splash of rum or rum extract for a grown-up twist on traditional Eggnog French Toast. Tailor it to your taste and make it your own.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The flavors of eggnog, cinnamon, and vanilla are kid-friendly, and the thick, custardy bread is always a hit. If you’re using traditional eggnog, you may want to check the ingredient label just to be sure it’s alcohol-free.
Final Thoughts
If you’re ready to turn an ordinary breakfast into a memory-making occasion, give Eggnog French Toast a try. It’s warm, comforting, and so easy to prepare—perfect for sharing with family or friends over the holidays. One bite and you’ll see why it’s destined to become a seasonal favorite at your table.
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Eggnog French Toast Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich flavors of the holiday season with this decadent Eggnog French Toast recipe. Perfect for a festive breakfast or brunch, this dish is sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah)
Eggnog Mixture:
- 1 cup eggnog
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
Additional:
- 1 tbsp butter (for cooking)
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter.
- Dip each slice of bread into the eggnog mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side.
- Place the soaked bread on the hot skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter to the pan as needed.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar and maple syrup, if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best texture—it holds up better to the custard.
- You can also add a splash of rum extract for extra holiday flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 10g
- Sodium: 210mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 31g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
