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Eggnog French Toast Casserole is the ultimate festive breakfast for holiday mornings. If you are hosting Christmas brunch or just want to surprise your family with something special, this rich casserole—infused with creamy eggnog and a hint of rum—delivers cozy comfort and celebration in every bite. The crunchy pecan and brown sugar topping makes it irresistible for guests of any age.
My family begs me for this casserole every Christmas Eve. The aroma alone will have everyone sitting around the table ready to dig in before you even call them.
Ingredients
- Texas Toast thick bread cubes: soak up the custard and bake up soft inside with crisp edges choose fresh or day old for best texture
- Eggs: provide structure and create that creamy custard base use large grade A eggs for reliable results
- Eggnog: brings the classic holiday flavor and richness choose full fat eggnog for superior texture and taste
- Milk: balances eggnog richness with light creaminess whole milk works best
- Rum flavoring: gives warmth and depth without alcohol extract adds authentic eggnog essence
- Cinnamon: warm spice that amplifies holiday flavor use true Ceylon cinnamon for a mellow note
- Nutmeg: essential seasonal spice adds warmth freshly grated if possible for bolder flavor
- Unsalted butter: creates the decadent topping and soaks into the bread for tender texture choose high quality European butter if you can
- Brown sugar: caramelizes on top for that signature sweet crunchy crust pack it firmly for best results
- Pecans: add a toasty crunch to seal the deal seek out fresh pecans for crunch and flavor
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cube and Soak the Bread:
- Cut Texas Toast into even pieces so every bite holds custard. In a big bowl whisk together eggs eggnog milk and rum flavoring. Dunk each bread cube into this mix ensuring total coverage. Layer cubes in a greased nine inch baking dish. Let the mixture soak in for maximum flavor and texture. Pour any leftover custard evenly over the bread in the dish. Dust generously with cinnamon and nutmeg.
- Chill to Set:
- Cover the dish tightly with foil so the bread can absorb the custard. Place in the refrigerator for at least four hours or let it rest overnight. This step is key so the bread gets completely saturated without turning soggy.
- Prepare the Crunchy Topping:
- Before baking melt unsalted butter and stir in brown sugar until well combined. This mix should look sandy. Drizzle it evenly over the soaked bread. If you love a crisp finish sprinkle chopped pecans across the top for a nutty bite.
- Bake Until Golden:
- Preheat oven to three hundred fifty degrees Fahrenheit. Remove foil and bake casserole uncovered for about forty minutes. The top should be deeply golden and a little puffed and the edges will be crisp. Let it stand a few minutes before serving to set.
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I am especially fond of the golden brown crust that forms with brown sugar and pecans on top. My youngest calls it breakfast candy and no one ever leaves a crumb behind once it hits the table on Christmas morning.
Storage Tips
Leftover casserole can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat for best texture use your oven instead of the microwave warm slices at three hundred degrees just until heated through. If you want to prepare ahead freeze the unbaked casserole well wrapped. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you cannot find Texas Toast any sturdy white bread like brioche or challah can give a similar result. Dairy free eggnog substitutes and plant milks work if your crowd needs it but full fat options give the creamiest outcome. No rum extract Try vanilla or bourbon extract for lovely extra depth.
Serving Suggestions
Pile slices high and top with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup. Fresh berries on the side add a refreshing note. This casserole is terrific served with bacon or sausage links for a true holiday spread.
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Cultural Context
Eggnog French Toast Casserole brings together the warmth of classic American French toast bakes and the cherished holiday tradition of sipping eggnog. In many families including mine anything with eggnog signals that joyous time when everyone is gathered together and the kitchen is filled with laughter.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, challah or brioche work well, but Texas toast’s thickness helps absorb the eggnog mixture without becoming soggy.
- → Is rum flavoring necessary?
Rum flavoring adds authentic holiday flair, but vanilla extract can be substituted if needed.
- → Can I prepare this ahead?
Absolutely—assemble it the night before and bake fresh in the morning for convenience and deeper flavor.
- → How do I reheat leftovers?
Cover and reheat in a moderate oven or microwave until warmed through. The pecan topping stays crisp this way.
- → Are pecans essential for the topping?
No, they are optional. Omit for allergies or substitute with walnuts if preferred.