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Overnight Eggnog French Toast Casserole – Easy Make-Ahead Breakfast

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This overnight eggnog French toast casserole is a lifesaver for holiday mornings. Assemble it the night before, bake it fresh in the morning, and enjoy a rich, custardy, and perfectly spiced breakfast that feeds a crowd with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (about 16 ounces) day-old brioche or challah bread
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups eggnog
  • 1 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon sugar (optional)
  • Maple syrup (for serving, optional)
  • Powdered sugar (for serving, optional)
  • Fresh berries or sliced bananas (for serving, optional)
  • Whipped cream (for serving, optional)

Instructions

  1. Cut the loaf of brioche or challah into 1-inch cubes. Spread them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large mixing bowl, whisk 6 eggs until fully combined. Add 2 cups eggnog, 1 cup whole milk, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg, 1/4 teaspoon cloves (if using), and 1/4 teaspoon salt. Whisk until smooth and pale yellow.
  3. Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help it absorb the custard. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 6 hours, or up to 24 hours (overnight is ideal).
  4. About 30 minutes before baking, remove the dish from the fridge. Let it sit on the counter to take the chill off. Brush or drizzle 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter over the top. Sprinkle 2 tablespoons brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon sugar (if using) evenly over the surface.
  5. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, until the top is golden brown and slightly puffed. The center should be set but still slightly jiggly. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil after 30 minutes.
  6. Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream as desired.

Notes

Use stale bread for best texture. The overnight soak is essential for even flavor and tenderness. Full-fat eggnog is recommended for the creamiest result. Let the casserole rest after baking to allow the custard to set. For a gluten-free version, use sturdy gluten-free bread. For a dairy-free version, use dairy-free eggnog and plant-based milk and butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: overnight french toast casserole, eggnog french toast, make-ahead breakfast, holiday breakfast, christmas breakfast, brunch casserole

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/overnight-eggnog-french-toast-casserole-easy-make-ahead-breakfast/