There’s something undeniably heartwarming about the festive spirit that fills the air during the holidays. As soon as I spot the first bottle of eggnog on the grocery shelf, I know it’s time to start creating memories in the kitchen. This Eggnog French Toast is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite that transforms your morning into a special event. Imagine thick slices of Texas toast drenched in a creamy eggnog custard, griddled to golden perfection, and served warm with a drizzle of maple syrup.
As the rich aroma wafts through the house, friends and family gather around, eager to savor every bite. It’s more than just breakfast; it’s a celebration of seasonal flavors that brings everyone together. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it the ideal holiday treat even for those busy mornings. Join me in bringing a taste of the holidays to your table with this delightful recipe – trust me, your loved ones will be asking for seconds!
Why is Eggnog French Toast a Holiday Must?
Festive Spirit: This Eggnog French Toast captures the essence of the season, transforming your breakfast into a cheerful holiday gathering.
Quick & Easy: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful dish without stress.
Rich Flavor: The creamy eggnog custard and spices deliver a comforting, sweet indulgence that everyone will love.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family or friends, it’s a tasty way to create memorable moments around the table.
Versatile Twist: Consider adding a hint of orange zest or serving it with flavored whipped cream for a festive surprise!
Eggnog French Toast Ingredients
• Discover the perfect blend of flavors!
For the Eggnog Custard
- Eggnog – The star ingredient that gives this dish its festive flavor; feel free to use homemade if you have it!
- Large Eggs (5) – Vital for richness and to bind the custard together, ensuring a creamy texture.
- Ground Nutmeg (1/2 tsp) – Adds a warm spice that enhances the holiday essence; ground cinnamon can be used for a different twist.
- Rum Extract (1/2 tsp) – Provides a warm, cozy note; for a non-alcoholic version, substitute with vanilla extract.
For the Bread
- Texas Toast (12 slices) – Its thick slices are perfect for soaking up the eggnog custard; you can substitute with challah or French bread for a similar effect.
Each of these ingredients contributes to elevating the Eggnog French Toast into a memorable and heartwarming holiday breakfast!
How to Make Eggnog French Toast
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Preheat your electric griddle to 350°F (175°C) for optimal cooking. This ensures a perfectly golden-brown crust on your French toast.
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Whisk together the eggnog, large eggs, ground nutmeg, and rum extract in a mixing bowl until fully combined. This creamy custard is the soul of your Eggnog French Toast!
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Pour the custard mixture into a shallow baking dish for easy dipping. A wide dish makes it simple to coat your bread evenly.
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Dip two slices of Texas toast into the eggnog mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Gently squeeze to soak the center, then lift and allow excess to drip off.
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Transfer the soaked slices to the buttered griddle, cooking until the bottom is golden brown and slightly crispy, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side until it achieves the same beautiful golden hue.
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Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of sweetened whipped cream for that extra festive touch!
Optional: Add a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an elegant finishing touch.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Eggnog French Toast?
Elevate your holiday breakfast experience with thoughtful pairings that delight the senses and ignite festive cheer.
- Crispy Bacon: The savory crunch of bacon complements the sweet custard, providing a balanced flavor profile that’s sure to please. Pairing salty bacon with sweet French toast creates a comforting contrast that family and friends will love.
- Sautéed Apples: Warm, spiced apples add a touch of sweetness and warmth, perfectly harmonizing with the eggnog flavors. Their tender, caramelized texture enhances the dish’s festive theme, making every bite feel like a cozy embrace.
- Maple Syrup Drizzle: A classic choice, maple syrup brings an irresistible sweetness that ties the whole meal together. This velvety addition envelops each slice, enhancing the eggnog’s rich flavor and adding an extra layer of indulgence.
- Fresh Berries: A refreshing touch of strawberries or raspberries adds balance with their natural tartness, cutting through the rich custard. The vibrant colors also provide a beautiful visual contrast, making your breakfast table festive and inviting.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream adds a touch of luxury and can be flavored with a hint of nutmeg or vanilla for a seasonal twist. As a topping, it transforms a simple French toast into a celebratory treat worthy of a holiday feast!
- Pumpkin Spice Latte: Celebrate the season with this warm, cozy beverage that enhances the flavors of eggnog and spices. The velvety coffee will fuel your morning while keeping the festive vibes going strong.
How to Store and Freeze Eggnog French Toast
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Room Temperature: It’s best to enjoy Eggnog French Toast right after cooking; however, if necessary, you can leave it at room temperature for up to 2 hours before refrigerating.
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Fridge: Store leftover Eggnog French Toast in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or toaster for best results.
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Freezer: For longer storage, freeze individual slices wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
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Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat the slices in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through, ensuring that the texture remains delightful.
Make Ahead Options
These Eggnog French Toast slices are perfect for busy mornings and can be prepped ahead for ultimate convenience! You can soak the Texas toast in the creamy eggnog custard up to 24 hours in advance; just ensure to cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat your griddle, cook the soaked bread as directed, and enjoy that delightful golden goodness. For leftovers, cooked French toast can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in a toaster or microwave, allowing you to savor the holiday spirit any time of the week, just as delicious as the first day!
Eggnog French Toast Variations
Feel free to get creative and adapt this scrumptious recipe to your tastes and dietary needs!
- Dairy-Free: Substitute eggnog with almond or coconut milk mixed with a little sugar and spices for a creamy yet lighter option.
- Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat bread instead of Texas toast for a heartier, nutrient-packed breakfast that’s still delightful.
- Vegan: Swap out eggs with a blend of flaxseed meal and water, plus use a plant-based eggnog for a completely vegan version.
- Fruit-Infused: Add mashed banana or pumpkin puree to the custard for a sweet twist that boosts flavors and nutrition.
- Spiced Up: Mix in a dash of pumpkin pie spice or chai spice blend to the custard for a warm, aromatic flavor explosion.
- Nutty Crunch: Top your finished French toast with chopped pecans or walnuts for added texture and a lovely nutty flavor.
- Overnight Bake: Layer the soaked bread in a baking dish, refrigerate overnight, and bake for a warm, comforting casserole in the morning.
- Festive Fruit: Serve with sautéed apples or pears mixed with cinnamon and sugar for a seasonal touch that brightens up each bite.
Expert Tips for Eggnog French Toast
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Uniform Custard: Ensure the eggnog, eggs, and spices are thoroughly combined for a custard that’s rich and flavorful.
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Soak Smart: Avoid over-soaking the bread to prevent it from becoming too soggy. Gently squeeze after dipping to remove excess custard.
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Cook in Batches: If making a large quantity, keep cooked pieces warm in a low oven while preparing the rest for a consistent serving temperature.
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Pan Temperature: Preheat your griddle appropriately. A hot surface is crucial for achieving that perfect golden crust on each Eggnog French Toast slice.
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Festive Additions: Consider adding a hint of orange zest or using flavored whipped cream to amp up the holiday spirit in each delightful bite.
Eggnog French Toast Recipe FAQs
What kind of eggnog should I use?
Absolutely, use any eggnog you prefer! Store-bought works great, but if you have a homemade recipe, it can elevate the flavor to a whole new level. Just ensure it’s fresh and not past its expiration date for the best results.
How do I store leftover Eggnog French Toast?
After enjoying your delicious Eggnog French Toast, simply place any leftovers in an airtight container. They will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 2 days. If it’s a bit chilly, just pop it in the microwave or toaster for a quick warm-up, and you’re good to go!
Can Eggnog French Toast be frozen?
Yes, indeed! For freezing, wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can store them for up to 1 month. When you’re ready to enjoy, let them thaw in the fridge overnight and then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes.
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What do I do if my bread falls apart while soaking?
This can happen if the bread is too soft or if it’s soaked for too long. To prevent this, try using thicker slices of bread like Texas toast or brioche. And remember, don’t soak it for too long—give it a quick dip and a gentle squeeze to remove excess custard.
Can I make Eggnog French Toast without eggs?
Certainly! If you’re looking for an egg-free option, you can use a substitute like a flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) or a commercial egg replacer. This will work well in creating a custard-like mixture for your French toast. Just make sure to mix well for a smooth consistency.
Is this recipe safe for pets?
While the ingredients for Eggnog French Toast might seem tempting, it’s best not to share this treat with your pets. The eggnog contains sugar and spices like nutmeg, which can be harmful to animals. Stick to pet-safe treats to keep your furry friends safe and sound!
Delicious Eggnog French Toast for a Festive Holiday Treat
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your electric griddle to 350°F (175°C).
- Whisk together the eggnog, large eggs, ground nutmeg, and rum extract in a mixing bowl until fully combined.
- Pour the custard mixture into a shallow baking dish for easy dipping.
- Dip two slices of Texas toast into the eggnog mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated.
- Transfer the soaked slices to the buttered griddle, cooking until the bottom is golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Flip and cook the other side.
- Serve warm, garnished with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream.