Eggnog is a creamy drink thats full of spices and people love it during the holidays. You’ll see folks passing around big mugs at family parties, rememberin those cozy nights and all the laughter. But dont think eggnog is just for December—it’s also a fun way to spice up your breakfast.
Meet Eggnog French Toast, a clever twist on the usual french toast. You mix eggnog with eggs and spices, then soak thick bread slices in it before frying them. It bring christmas vibes to your morning meal, so it’s perfect whether it’s a regular weekday or a big holiday gathering.
What is Eggnog French Toast?
Eggnog French Toast is basically regular french toast but you replace the milk with eggnog. You soak your bread in a mix of eggnog, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla—then fry it till golden. The end result is soft, creamy, and packed with holiday spice.
The recipe probbly began when people had leftover eggnog after holiday parties and didnt want to waste it. So they poured it over bread and cooked it, and presto—a festive breakfast was born.
Unlike classic french toast, wich uses just eggs and milk, Eggnog French Toast brings in nutmeg and cinnamon plus that rich taste of eggnog. That makes it stand out as a special seasonal treat.
Ingredients for Eggnog French Toast
To make this yummy breakfast, you’ll need:
- Eggnog: Store-bought or homemade, either one works well.
- Bread: Thick slices like brioche, challah, or Texas toast so it soaks up all the flavour.
- Eggs: A couple extra to make it extra rich.
- Cinnamon: Gives warmth and sweetness.
- Nutmeg: The classic eggnog spice.
- Vanilla extract: Adds depth to the taste.
- Butter: For frying and a golden crust.
Detailed Recipe for Eggnog French Toast
Preparation Time
All up it takes about 25 minutes—10 minutes to mix and 15 minutes to cook.
Cooking Directions
- Mix the batter: In a large bowl whisk together eggnog, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla until the mixture is smooth and the spices are spread out evenly.
- Prep the bread: Choose thick slices. If they arent pre-sliced, cut them about 1-inch thick so they absorb more liquid.
- Soak the bread: Dunk each slice into the eggnog mix, making sure both sides get a good soak for about 2–3 minutes. Dont let it get too soggy or it’ll fall apart.
- Cook: Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. When it starts bubbling, place the soaked slices in the pan. Cook 3–4 minutes per side or until they’re golden and crispy. Turn the heat down if they brown too fast.
- Serve: Plate it warm. Top with maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fresh berries. For a festive twist, sprinkle crushed candy cane pieces or a pinch of extra nutmeg.
Tips and Advice
If you want a sweet surprise, toss in chocolate chips or chopped fruit to the batter. Any leftovers go in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days—just reheat in a toaster or pan.
Why Choose Eggnog French Toast?
Besides tasting awesome, this dish gives you protein from the eggs and some calcium from the eggnog. Cinnamon and nutmeg also have good antioxidants. It’s a holiday breakfast that brings folks together around the table.
The creamy texture and warm spices remind you of christmas morning, even if the date on the calendar says otherwise.
Pairing Suggestions
Serve it with coffee, tea, or hot cocoa (you can spike it if you like). On the side, crispy bacon, fresh fruit, or sautéed spinach balance the sweet flavours.
To end on a high note, a slice of pie or spiced cake makes the meal feel extra special.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t over-soak the bread or it’ll turn to mush. Watch your pan temp—too hot and you’ll burn the outside while the inside stays raw. Also, never skip the spices—they’re what make eggnog french toast special.
Vegan and Dairy-Free Alternatives
Use almond or coconut milk eggnog, and pick plant-based bread. Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water or silken tofu, and you’ll still get a tasty, rich breakfast.
Seasonal Variations
Switch it up by adding pumpkin spice in autumn with a pumpkin pie french toast casserole or a drop of peppermint extract in winter. Top with cranberries or candied pecans for extra color and crunch.
FAQs
What is the best bread for Eggnog French Toast?
Thick, sturdy breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast soak up the batter without falling apart—definately the best choices.
Can I make Eggnog French Toast ahead of time?
Sure, you can soak the bread in the batter and store it in the fridge for a few hours. In the morning just fry it up—easy peasy.
How long does eggnog last?
Homemade eggnog is good for about 2–3 days in the fridge; store-bought usually lasts longer—just check the date on the carton.
Can I freeze Eggnog French Toast?
Yep! Freeze cooked slices for up to a month. Wrap them tight in plastic wrap and put them in an airtight bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
What are some good toppings?
Maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream, fresh berries, or chopped nuts—go nuts! A sprinkle of cinnamon never hurts either.
How do I know when it’s cooked through?
It’s done when both sides are golden brown and the slice feels firm, not too squishy, when you press lightly.
Conclusion
Eggnog French Toast turns your morning into a mini holiday party. Mixing traditional holiday flavours with the comfort of french toast makes it a must-try for any season. So grab your ingredients and treat yourself to some warm, spicy goodness!
eggnog french toast
Equipment
- 1 mixing bowl
- 1 whisk
- 1 shallow dish or plate
- 1 skillet or griddle
- 1 spatula
- 1 measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 8 slices bread Preferably thick-sliced, such as brioche or challah.
- 1 cup eggnog
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter For cooking.
- to taste maple syrup For serving, optional.
- to taste powdered sugar For garnish, optional.
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, allowing it to melt and coat the surface.
- Dip each slice of bread into the eggnog mixture, coating both sides well. Allow excess mixture to drip off.
- Place the coated bread slices onto the skillet or griddle. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Remove the French toast from the skillet and keep warm while you cook the remaining slices, adding the remaining butter as needed.
- Serve hot, drizzled with maple syrup and dusted with powdered sugar, if desired.
