Eggnog French toast is a holiday breakfast classic that combines the creamy, spiced richness of eggnog with the comforting warmth of French toast. If you love eggnog but find it a bit too rich on its own, this recipe is a perfect way to enjoy it in a more balanced, delicious form. Making eggnog French toast is simple and quick, and it’s sure to become a festive favorite in your home.
What You’ll Need
To make eggnog French toast, gather these basic ingredients:
– Eggs (usually large)
– Eggnog (store-bought or homemade)
– Bread (thick slices work best, like brioche or Texas toast)
– Spices: cinnamon and nutmeg for that holiday warmth
– Vanilla extract (optional, for extra flavor)
– Butter or oil for cooking
– Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving
Optional: A splash of rum or rum extract can add an authentic eggnog twist, but it’s totally fine to skip the alcohol.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Eggnog French Toast
1. Prepare the Eggnog Mixture
In a shallow dish or bowl, whisk together the eggs and eggnog until smooth. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract if using. This mixture replaces the traditional milk and egg combo in French toast, infusing your bread with festive flavors.
2. Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of bread into the eggnog mixture, turning to coat both sides generously. Let the bread soak for about 20-30 seconds per side so it absorbs enough of the custard without becoming soggy. Thicker bread slices hold up best during soaking and cooking.
3. Heat Your Cooking Surface
Melt butter in a nonstick skillet or heat a griddle over medium heat (about 350°F). Butter adds flavor and helps create a golden crust on the French toast.
4. Cook the French Toast
Place the soaked bread slices on the hot skillet or griddle. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until each side is golden brown and slightly crisp. Adjust the heat as needed to avoid burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
5. Serve Warm and Delicious
Stack your eggnog French toast on a plate. Top with butter, a dusting of powdered sugar, and a generous drizzle of real maple syrup. Fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas also makes a lovely garnish.
Tips for Perfect Eggnog French Toast
– Use firm, thick bread to prevent sogginess.
– Don’t rush the soaking step; it’s key for flavor.
– Cook on medium heat to get a crispy outside and fluffy inside.
– You can make the eggnog mixture a day ahead and store it in the fridge for convenience.
– Leftover cooked French toast freezes well for up to three months—just reheat gently.
Variations to Try
– Add a pinch of ground cloves or allspice to the eggnog mixture for extra holiday spice.
– Swap out regular eggnog for dairy-free or vegan versions to suit dietary needs.
– For an adult twist, add a splash of bourbon or rum to the custard mix.
– Serve with whipped cream and toasted nuts for a decadent brunch treat.
Eggnog French toast is a festive, flavorful upgrade to your usual breakfast routine. It’s easy to make, uses simple ingredients, and fills your kitchen with the cozy scents of cinnamon and nutmeg. Perfect for holiday mornings or any time you want a special treat.
Enjoy your delicious eggnog French toast with your favorite toppings and make your breakfast merry and bright!