Eggnog French Toast — Holiday Brunch Delight

As the crisp chill of winter embraces the air and twinkling lights adorn every corner, there’s nothing quite like the warmth of a festive breakfast to kickstart your holiday celebrations. Imagine this: the comforting aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg fills your kitchen as thick slices of Texas toast soak up a rich eggnog custard, transforming into a golden-brown delight on your griddle. This Eggnog French Toast isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that gathers loved ones around the table, sharing stories and laughter over a delicious, comforting feast.

Quick, easy, and utterly indulgent, this holiday brunch delight will quickly become your new seasonal tradition. Whether you choose to top it with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of flavored whipped cream, such versatility meets holiday cheer. So, roll up your sleeves, invite your friends and family, and let’s whip up a breakfast that embodies the spirit of the season!

Why is Eggnog French Toast the Ultimate Holiday Treat?

Festive, Flavorful Fun: This Eggnog French Toast elevates your breakfast game with its unique blend of holiday spices, making it a standout dish for any festive gathering.
Quick and Easy: With simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can whip up this tasty treat in no time!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Perfect for brunch with family or friends, its rich flavors cater to everyone’s taste buds.
Versatile Twists: Get creative by adding optional toppings like flavored whipped cream or a hint of orange zest for a personalized touch.
Comfort in Every Bite: The soft, custardy interior surrounded by a golden crust guarantees a warm, cozy experience that truly embodies holiday spirit!

Eggnog French Toast Ingredients

For the Custard

Eggnog – A creamy base crucial for the custard; store-bought or homemade works beautifully for best flavor.
Large Eggs – These add richness and help bind the custard for the Eggnog French Toast.
Ground Nutmeg – A classic holiday spice that adds warmth and depth to each bite.
Rum Extract – Enhances the flavor with a festive touch; substitute with vanilla extract for a non-alcoholic version.

For the Bread

Texas Toast – Thick slices that perfectly soak up the custard; alternatives like challah or French bread can also be delightful.

Experience the indulgent comfort of Eggnog French Toast this holiday season!

How to Make Eggnog French Toast

Preheat the Griddle: Set your electric griddle to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot enough for perfect cooking.
Whisk the Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, large eggs, ground nutmeg, and rum extract until everything is fully combined and creamy.
Prepare for Dipping: Pour the custard mixture into a shallow baking dish, making it easy to dip the bread slices thoroughly.
Dip the Bread: Take two slices of Texas toast and dip them into the custard, pressing gently to ensure they are well-soaked but not soggy; squeeze out any excess custard before cooking.
Cook the Toast: Place the soaked bread on the preheated griddle; let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and repeat on the other side.
Serve Warm: Once cooked, serve immediately, topped with a generous drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream for the ultimate holiday treat.

Optional: Sprinkle with powdered sugar or fresh berries for added flair and flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Eggnog French Toast Variations

Embrace your creativity in the kitchen and make this festive breakfast truly your own!

Citrus Zest: Add a hint of orange or lemon zest to the custard for a bright, refreshing flavor twist that dances on your palate.
Flavored Whipped Cream: Swap regular whipped cream for a flavored version, like peppermint or vanilla, to elevate your Eggnog French Toast with extra sweetness.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped pecans or hazelnuts on top before serving for an added crunch, bringing delightful texture to every bite.
Spirit-Free: For a kid-friendly version, replace rum extract with a splash of almond extract for a nutty, festive flavor that everyone can enjoy.
Dairy-Free Delight: Substitute almond or oat milk for eggnog, and use a plant-based egg alternative to create a delicious dairy-free Eggnog French Toast everyone can relish.
Challah Swap: Use slices of challah bread for a slightly sweeter, eggy base that complements the custard beautifully, making each bite irresistible.
Cinnamon Dusting: Add a dusting of cinnamon to the griddle before placing the soaked bread for an aromatic crust that enhances your Eggnog French Toast experience.
Fruity Twist: Top with sautéed apples or pears simmered in brown sugar and cinnamon for a warm, comforting addition that embodies the essence of the holidays.

What to Serve with Eggnog French Toast?

Gather your loved ones around the table and prepare for a delightful holiday breakfast experience.

Crispy Bacon: The salty crunch of bacon contrasts beautifully with the sweet custardy toast, balancing flavors perfectly.
Maple Syrup Drizzle: This classic pairing enhances the rich eggnog flavor with its sweetness, bringing warmth to each bite.
Fresh Berries: Bright, juicy strawberries or blueberries add a fresh burst of flavor and stunning color to your festive plate.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of flavored whipped cream, perhaps spiced with cinnamon or peppermint, elevates the brunch experience.
Breakfast Sausages: Juicy sausages provide a savory element, making for a satisfying and hearty holiday brunch spread.
Cinnamon Roll Casserole: For a double dose of sweetness, this warm baked treat complements the holiday flavors of your Eggnog French Toast.
Hot Chocolate or Coffee: Cozy beverages like spiced hot chocolate or rich coffee will warm you up and pair perfectly with your festive meal.
Fruit Salad: A refreshing mix of seasonal fruits lightens the meal, balancing the richness of the French toast.
Gingerbread Cookies: A festive treat to finish off your breakfast, these cookies bring holiday cheer and nostalgia to the table.

How to Store and Freeze Eggnog French Toast

Fridge: Store any leftover Eggnog French Toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the toaster or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked slices in a single layer, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen in the toaster or oven.
Make-Ahead: If preparing for a busy morning, you can mix the custard and soak the bread up to 24 hours ahead. Just keep it covered in the fridge to maintain moisture.
Reheating: For best results, use a toaster or an oven to warm the French toast. This preserves its delightful texture while ensuring it’s piping hot for serving.

Expert Tips for Eggnog French Toast

Mix Well: Ensure a uniform custard by whisking thoroughly. This prevents clumps and guarantees each bite of Eggnog French Toast is flavorful.
Quick Dip: Avoid over-soaking the bread to prevent it from becoming too soggy. A quick dip ensures the toast remains fluffy and holds its shape.
Temperature Check: Preheat the griddle properly for perfect browning; a hot griddle creates a beautifully golden crust while keeping the interior custardy.
Batch Baking: If making multiple servings, keep cooked slices warm in a low oven while you finish cooking others to maintain serving temperature.
Flavor Enhancements: Feel free to add a hint of orange zest or a splash of vanilla for extra layers of flavor, making your Eggnog French Toast even more festive!

Make Ahead Options

These Eggnog French Toast slices are perfect for busy mornings or holiday gatherings! You can prepare the custard mixture and soak the bread up to 24 hours in advance. Simply whisk together the eggnog, eggs, nutmeg, and rum extract, then place the soaked bread in a covered container in the refrigerator to keep it moist. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your griddle and cook the bread as directed—just a couple of minutes on each side will give you that golden-brown perfection. Your Eggnog French Toast will be just as delicious, ensuring a delightful breakfast for you and your loved ones.

Eggnog French Toast Recipe FAQs

What type of eggnog should I use?
You can use either store-bought or homemade eggnog for the best flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a homemade version allows you to control the sweetness and spices, resulting in a richer custard.

How should I store leftover Eggnog French Toast?
Refrigerate any leftover Eggnog French Toast in an airtight container for up to 2 days. For reheating, you can use a toaster for a crispy edge or a microwave for a quick warm-up, ensuring you enjoy it just as much as when it was freshly cooked.

Can I freeze Eggnog French Toast?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the cooked slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid. Afterward, transfer them to a freezer bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. For reheating, pop them directly from the freezer into the toaster or oven for a perfectly revived treat.

What should I do if my custard looks lumpy?
If your custard mixture appears lumpy, it’s usually due to not whisking enough. Simply continue whisking until the mixture is creamy and smooth. If the lumps persist, you can strain the custard through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any clumps before dipping your bread.

Can I make this recipe vegan or egg-free?
Yes, you can easily modify Eggnog French Toast to be vegan! Substitute the eggs with a mixture of 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons of water per egg, letting it sit for a few minutes until it thickens. Additionally, choose a plant-based eggnog alternative to ensure a delightful holiday breakfast for everyone.

How do I enhance the flavor of my Eggnog French Toast?
For added flavor, consider incorporating a hint of orange zest into your custard mixture or using flavored whipped cream as a topping. You can also sprinkle in some cinnamon or more nutmeg to personalize it to your liking!