Eggnog French Toast Casserole (Print)

Brioche soaked in creamy eggnog, spiced and baked for a cozy holiday-inspired morning treat.

# Components:

→ Bread Component

01 - 1 loaf (approximately 1 pound) brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes (yields about 10 cups)

→ Custard Base

02 - 2 cups eggnog
03 - 4 large eggs
04 - 1/4 cup granulated sugar
05 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
07 - 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
08 - Pinch of salt

→ Destreza Coating

09 - 1/3 cup packed brown sugar
10 - 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
11 - 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
12 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

→ Optional Accompaniments

13 - Maple syrup, for serving
14 - Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish. Distribute the cubed brioche uniformly within the prepared dish.
02 - In a capacious bowl, thoroughly whisk together the eggnog, eggs, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt until a homogenous consistency is achieved.
03 - Evenly decant the custard mixture over the bread cubes. Employ gentle pressure to facilitate optimal liquid absorption by the bread.
04 - Cover the dish and refrigerate for a minimum of 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, to enhance textural development.
05 - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
06 - In a separate small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon, pecans (if utilizing), and melted butter. Mix until well incorporated.
07 - Evenly sprinkle the prepared topping mixture over the custard-soaked bread. Commit to the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the casserole is visibly puffed, golden brown, and the interior is set.
08 - Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes post-baking. Serve warm, garnished with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar, if desired.

# Chef Secrets:

01 -
  • Uses seasonal eggnog to create an impressive breakfast without complicated techniques
  • Serves a crowd with minimal effort and maximum flavor impact
  • Ready in just one hour with only 15 minutes of active preparation
  • Perfect make ahead option for stress free holiday mornings
02 -
  • Can be fully prepped the night before for a stress free morning meal
  • Works beautifully with homemade or store bought eggnog
  • Creates twelve generous portions perfect for holiday gatherings
  • Contains approximately 310 calories per serving with a perfect balance of carbohydrates protein and fat
03 -
  • Let bread sit out uncovered for several hours or overnight before using to dry slightly which helps it absorb more custard without becoming soggy
  • Gently warm your eggnog before mixing with other ingredients to create a smoother custard that penetrates the bread more effectively
  • Create textural contrast by leaving some bread pieces pointing upward which will become extra crispy during baking
  • Use a kitchen thermometer to confirm doneness the center should register 160°F ensuring food safety while maintaining a custardy texture

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