Growing up in an Italian household, Christmas mornings were always special. While the aroma of espresso filled the air, my Nonna would surprise us with delightful breakfast treats. Inspired by those cherished memories, this Overnight Eggnog French Toast Casserole brings together the creamy richness of eggnog and the comforting warmth of baked French toast. It’s the perfect dish to prepare ahead, allowing you to enjoy the festivities without the morning rush.

Key Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Casserole:

1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups of eggnog (store-bought or homemade)4 large eggs
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the baking dish

Optional Streusel Topping:

1/2 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Step-by-Step for Making Your Eggnog Breakfast Casserole

1. Prepare the Custard Mixture
– In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.

2. Assemble the Casserole
– Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
– Place the bread cubes evenly in the prepared dish.
– Pour the custard mixture over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
– Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.

3. Refrigerate Overnight
– Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

4. Prepare the Streusel Topping (Optional)
– In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cold butter, and cinnamon. Use a pastry cutter or your fingers to mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

5. Bake the Casserole
– Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
– Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.
– If using, sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the casserole.
– Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

6. Serve
– Allow the casserole to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Garnish with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries if desired.

Creative Serving Suggestions

Take your casserole to the next level with these ideas:

Pair it with crispy bacon or sausages for a savory contrast.
Serve alongside fresh fruit like sliced oranges or berries for a refreshing balance.
Offer a variety of syrups, including classic maple, caramel, or spiced honey.

Tips for Perfect Results

Use Stale Bread: Slightly dry bread absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
Adjust the Sweetness: Taste your eggnog before adding sugar to balance sweetness levels.
Keep an Eye While Baking: Cover with foil if the top browns too quickly.

FAQs About Overnight Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Can I Make This Without Eggs?

Yes! Replace eggs with a flaxseed or chia seed mixture as a vegan alternative.

What’s the Best Bread to Use?

Brioche and challah are ideal due to their rich texture, but French bread works well too.

Can I Freeze Leftovers?

Absolutely! Freeze individual portions in airtight containers for up to one month. Reheat in the oven for best results.

How Do I Prevent a Soggy Casserole?

Use stale or slightly toasted bread and ensure the custard is evenly distributed.

Conclusion

This Overnight Eggnog French Toast Casserole is the ultimate holiday breakfast—easy to prepare, full of festive flavors, and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you’re hosting a family brunch or simply treating yourself, this dish will quickly become a seasonal favorite. Try it out this holiday season and enjoy the cozy, spiced goodness!

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Overnight Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Author: Amelia M.
Total Time: PT55M
Yield: 8 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Description

This Eggnog French Toast Casserole is the ultimate holiday breakfast! Made with buttery brioche, spiced eggnog custard, and baked to perfection, it’s topped with a creamy sauce for an indulgent treat. Perfect for Christmas morning or a festive brunch!