Holiday Eggnog French Toast

There’s something truly magical about the holiday season, and what better way to celebrate than with a cozy, indulgent breakfast? Enter my Holiday Eggnog French Toast—a delightful twist on a classic dish that captures the essence of festive cheer. Imagine sinking your fork into thick, fluffy slices of bread soaked in a rich, creamy eggnog batter, perfectly infused with warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly morning!

This recipe is special because it takes the traditional French toast we all love and elevates it with the holiday spirit, making it the ideal treat for family gatherings or a quiet morning by the fire. The best part? It’s not only delicious but also easy to whip up, allowing you to spend more time making memories and less time in the kitchen. Your friends and family will rave about this festive breakfast, and you might just find it becoming a cherished holiday tradition. So, let’s dive into this scrumptious recipe and spread some holiday joy, one slice at a time!

Ingredient Notes

When it comes to making delicious Holiday Eggnog French Toast, the key ingredients play a crucial role in creating that festive flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

Bread: I love using thick slices of brioche or challah for a rich texture. However, you can substitute with any hearty bread like sourdough or whole wheat if you prefer.
Eggnog: The star of the show! Use store-bought or homemade eggnog. If you’re looking for a non-dairy option, you can substitute with almond or coconut milk mixed with nutmeg and vanilla extract to mimic the flavor.
Eggs: These help bind the mixture. If you’re looking for an egg substitute, consider using a flaxseed meal or a commercial egg replacer.
Spices: Nutmeg and cinnamon are essential for that holiday warmth. You can adjust these spices according to your taste, or even add a pinch of ginger for a little kick.
Vanilla Extract: A splash enhances the flavor. You can use vanilla bean paste if you want to elevate the taste.
Butter: For cooking, I prefer unsalted butter for a richer flavor. If dairy-free is your goal, opt for vegan butter or coconut oil.
Maple Syrup: This is a perfect topping. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use agave syrup or honey depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Holiday Eggnog French Toast is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with the scents of the season. Here’s how to do it:

Prepare the Eggnog Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together 1 cup of eggnog, 2 eggs, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg until well combined.
Soak the Bread: Take your slices of bread and soak them in the eggnog mixture for about 30 seconds on each side, allowing them to absorb the liquid without becoming too soggy.
Heat the Pan: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Make sure the pan is hot but not smoking.
Cook the French Toast: Place the soaked bread slices in the skillet, cooking for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
Keep Warm: If you’re making a larger batch, keep the cooked French toast warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) while you finish the rest.
Serve: Serve your Holiday Eggnog French Toast warm, drizzled with maple syrup, and a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired. You can also top it with whipped cream or fresh berries for an extra festive touch.

Tips & Suggestions

To make your Holiday Eggnog French Toast even more special, here are a few tips and suggestions:

Make Ahead: You can prepare the eggnog mixture the night before and store it in the refrigerator. Just soak the bread right before you’re ready to cook it in the morning.
Add Toppings: Get creative with toppings! Consider adding candied pecans, sliced bananas, or even a dollop of cranberry sauce for a seasonal twist.
Spice it Up: Experiment with different spices! Cardamom or allspice can add unique flavors that complement the eggnog beautifully.
Serving Size: Adjust the recipe based on the number of servings you need. This recipe works well for a cozy family breakfast or a larger holiday gathering.
Pairing: Complement your French toast with a warm beverage like spiced cider or a festive hot chocolate to enhance the holiday experience.

Storage

If you happen to have leftovers of your Holiday Eggnog French Toast (which is rare in my house!), here’s how to store them properly:

Refrigeration: Allow the French toast to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: You can freeze the French toast by placing slices in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
Reheating: To reheat, pop the slices in the toaster for a quick and easy option, or warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Enjoy your delicious Holiday Eggnog French Toast, and may it bring warmth and joy to your holiday celebrations!

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to add a festive twist to your breakfast table this holiday season, look no further than Holiday Eggnog French Toast. This delightful dish captures the cozy essence of the holidays with its rich flavors and creamy texture, making it a must-try for anyone wanting to impress family and friends. With its warm spices and the comforting taste of eggnog, every bite feels like a warm hug. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can be customized to suit various dietary preferences, ensuring everyone at your table can enjoy this festive treat. So gather your loved ones, whip up some Holiday Eggnog French Toast, and create unforgettable memories around the breakfast table this holiday season!