Imagine waking up to the heavenly aroma of Overnight Eggnog French Toast Casserole wafting through your home, enticing you to indulge in a breakfast that feels like a festive celebration! This delightful dish combines the rich flavors of creamy eggnog, warm spices, and buttery brioche, all topped with a crunchy streusel that adds the perfect finishing touch. Whether you're hosting a holiday brunch or simply treating yourself to a cozy morning, this casserole promises to be a showstopper that will have everyone asking for seconds. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a breakfast that’s as easy to prepare as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 65 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of brioche bread
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups eggnog
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Prepare the bread by cutting brioche into 1-inch thick cubes. Spread cubes evenly in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until fully combined and smooth.
- Pour the eggnog mixture evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are saturated. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to fully absorb the eggnog mixture (8-12 hours).
- For the streusel topping, combine brown sugar, flour, and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Cut cold butter into small pieces and work it into the dry ingredients using your fingers until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Remove the casserole from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Sprinkle the prepared streusel topping evenly over the soaked bread.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar or serve with maple syrup.
Tips
- Choose Quality Brioche: Opt for a fresh, high-quality brioche loaf for the best texture and flavor. Stale bread works well too, as it will absorb the eggnog mixture better.
- Prep Ahead: Make this casserole the night before to save time in the morning. Letting it soak overnight allows the bread to fully absorb the eggnog mixture, resulting in a creamier texture.
- Customize Your Spices: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of cardamom or ginger can elevate the flavor profile and give it a unique twist.
- Don’t Skip the Streusel: The streusel topping is essential for that delightful crunch. Make sure to work the butter into the dry ingredients until it resembles coarse crumbs for the best texture.
- Rest Before Serving: Allow the casserole to rest for about 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes it easier to slice and serve.
- Serve with Toppings: Elevate your dish by serving it with a dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or even a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent treat.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 220mg
