Description
This Eggnog French Toast is a festive and indulgent breakfast dish perfect for holiday mornings or special occasions. Thick slices of French bread are soaked overnight in a rich mixture of eggnog, heavy cream, eggs, and warm spices, then baked atop a luscious caramel maple syrup base. The result is a custardy, golden brown French toast with a sweet and aromatic flavor that’s sure to delight the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
French Toast
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
Caramel Sauce
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, heavy cream, eggs, vanilla extract, ground nutmeg, ground cinnamon, and granulated sugar until fully combined and smooth.
- Soak the bread: Arrange the French bread slices in a single layer in a shallow dish. Pour the prepared eggnog mixture over the bread, making sure each slice is thoroughly coated. Cover with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard deeply.
- Make the caramel sauce: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the brown sugar and maple syrup, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Prepare the baking dish: Pour and spread the caramel mixture evenly across the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish, creating a flavorful base for the French toast.
- Assemble the French toast: Remove the soaked bread slices from the refrigerator and place them snugly on top of the caramel layer in the baking dish.
- Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35 to 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set in the center.
- Serve warm: Remove the baked French toast from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with extra maple syrup for added sweetness and presentation. Enjoy your festive Eggnog French Toast!
Notes
- For best results, soak the bread overnight to allow full flavor absorption and a custardy texture.
- You can use stale French bread or brioche for better soaking and texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar in the custard or the caramel sauce accordingly.
- Serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream for an added touch.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven.
