Eggnog French Toast Casserole is a cozy, festive breakfast that feels like a holiday hug in a dish. It brings together the creamy, spiced flavor of eggnog with soft, custardy bread baked to golden perfection. This casserole is just the right mix of sweet and comforting, with hints of cinnamon and nutmeg that make every bite feel special.
I love making this casserole when friends and family come over during the holidays because it’s so easy to prep the night before. I just pour the eggnog mixture over thick slices of bread, sprinkle on a little cinnamon, and pop it in the fridge to soak overnight. In the morning, it bakes up into this amazing blend of gooey and crispy textures that everyone always asks for again.
One of my favorite ways to serve Eggnog French Toast Casserole is with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, maybe with some fresh berries on the side. It’s perfect for a lazy weekend brunch or a holiday morning when you want something that tastes homemade but doesn’t take forever in the kitchen. I find it’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, warm and happy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Challah and brioche are great for their soft, slightly sweet texture that soaks up the eggnog custard well. If you can’t find these, thick-cut white bread or a sturdy sourdough will also work.
Eggnog: This ingredient adds a unique holiday flavor with spices, sweetness, and richness. If you don’t have eggnog, use a mix of milk with a pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, and a little sugar for a similar taste.
Eggs: Eggs are key for the custard that binds everything together. For dairy-free options, try using a flaxseed egg substitute, though the texture may vary.
Spices: Cinnamon and nutmeg give this casserole its warm, cozy flavor. Feel free to adjust the amounts or add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice for extra depth.
Butter: Butter dots on top add richness and help create a golden crust. You can swap for dairy-free margarine if needed.
How Do You Get the Perfect Custardy Texture in Eggnog French Toast Casserole?
Getting the casserole soft and custardy inside while having a nicely browned top takes a bit of timing and preparation:
- Soak Overnight: Covering and refrigerating allows the bread to soak up the eggnog mixture fully. This prevents dry spots, giving you that creamy inside.
- Even Pouring: Pour the custard slowly and press the bread gently to help it absorb better.
- Butter Placement: Dot the top with small butter pieces to melt and brown the crust while baking.
- Bake Uncovered: Baking uncovered helps the bread get golden and slightly crispy without turning soggy.
- Check Doneness: The casserole is done when it’s set and doesn’t jiggle much. Use a toothpick to check—if it comes out moist but not wet, it’s ready.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – It’s the perfect size to hold all the soaked bread slices and bake evenly.
- Large mixing bowl – Ideal for whisking together the custard ingredients smoothly.
- Whisk or fork – Makes combining the eggs, eggnog, and spices quick and easy.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Ensures accurate measurements for the best flavor.
- Plastic wrap – To cover the casserole overnight so it soaks up all the delicious custard.
- Oven – For baking the casserole to golden perfection.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Use cinnamon rolls or croissants instead of bread for a richer, flaky texture.
- Add chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, for extra crunch and flavor.
- Mix in dried fruits such as cranberries or raisins to add chewiness and festive color.
- Substitute bourbon or rum for some of the eggnog for a boozy twist (great for adults!).
Eggnog French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 loaf challah bread or brioche, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups eggnog
- 1 cup whole milk
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and requires at least 4 hours (or preferably overnight) to soak the bread. Baking takes about 45–55 minutes, so plan for roughly 1 hour total on baking day. The soaking step makes the casserole wonderfully soft and custardy inside!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread:
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the cubed challah or brioche evenly in the dish.
2. Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, eggnog, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined.
3. Combine and Soak:
Pour the eggnog mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Press gently on the bread to help it soak up the custard. Dot the top with small pieces of butter. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight for best results.
4. Bake the Casserole:
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Take the casserole out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set (a gentle shake will show it’s firm).
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Allow the casserole to cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar. Drizzle with maple syrup and serve warm. Fresh fruit on the side makes a lovely addition for a festive touch.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for the Casserole?
Yes, you can use frozen bread cubes, but make sure to thaw them completely before soaking in the custard mixture. Thaw overnight in the fridge or at room temperature for a few hours.
Can I Prepare This Recipe the Morning Of?
While you can, the casserole tastes best when soaked overnight to absorb all the flavors. If pressed for time, let it soak for at least 4 hours to ensure a custardy texture.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to keep the texture soft and creamy.
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Absolutely! Substitute the whole milk and eggnog with dairy-free alternatives like almond, oat, or coconut milk spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg. Use dairy-free butter for topping as well.