Description
Make a rich Eggnog French Toast Bake with cinnamon, bourbon, and fresh fruit for a cozy, holiday-ready breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
French Toast Base:
- 1 French or Italian loaf, cut into 1″ thick slices (stale/dried bread works best)
- 1 cup eggnog
- 1 cup milk
- 4 eggs
- 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
- 1 ounce bourbon (2 oz for a stronger flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon or Chinese 5-spice
- 2 tablespoons butter, cubed
Optional Toppings:
- Fresh fruit (plums, berries, etc.)
- Maple syrup or honey
Instructions
1. Preheat Oven:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. Prepare Bread:
Cut your loaf into 1″ thick slices. Arrange the bread in the baking dish in a single layer, slightly overlapping slices if needed. Stale bread works best for soaking up the custard without falling apart.
3. Make the Custard:
In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggnog, milk, eggs, brown sugar, bourbon, and your chosen spice until smooth.
4. Assemble the Bake:
Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices, pressing down lightly to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Dot the top with cubed butter. Optionally, scatter fresh fruit over the top.
5. Bake:
Cover loosely with foil and bake for 25–30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
6. Serve:
Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle with maple syrup or honey and add additional fresh fruit if desired.
Notes
Use stale or slightly dry bread for best absorption.
Adjust bourbon to taste; omit for a non-alcoholic version.
Custard can be made ahead and poured over bread the night before for a convenient overnight bake.