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Creamy Overnight Eggnog French Toast Casserole

overnight eggnog french toast casserole - featured image

A cozy and indulgent holiday breakfast casserole soaked overnight in a rich eggnog custard with warm spices, perfect for busy mornings and festive gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 8 cups thick-cut bread cubes (day-old brioche or challah preferred)
  • 3 cups eggnog (full-fat recommended)
  • 6 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1/3 cup granulated sugar (65 g)
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons butter (for greasing the baking dish)
  • Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, toasted pecans, fresh berries

Instructions

  1. Cut or tear the bread into roughly 1-inch cubes. If using fresh bread, lightly toast the cubes in a 350°F oven for about 8 minutes to help them hold up better overnight.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggnog, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until smooth and well combined.
  3. Gently fold the bread cubes into the custard mixture, ensuring each cube is thoroughly coated. Let sit for about 10 minutes to soak.
  4. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter. Pour the soaked bread and custard mixture evenly into the dish, pressing down lightly but not squishing flat.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight or at least 6 hours.
  6. Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove casserole from fridge about 15 minutes before baking to take the chill off.
  7. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and custard is set but slightly wobbly in the center.
  8. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

If edges brown too quickly, tent with foil halfway through baking. Use sturdy bread like brioche or challah for best soak. Eggs should be room temperature for smooth custard. For dairy-free, use almond or coconut milk eggnog and substitute butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine. Variations include adding nuts, berries, or chocolate chips. Leftovers reheat well in microwave or oven wrapped in foil.

Nutrition

Keywords: eggnog, French toast casserole, holiday breakfast, overnight soak, easy casserole, Christmas brunch, cinnamon, nutmeg, creamy custard