Description
This Eggnog Croissant French Toast Bake is a warm and cozy holiday breakfast treat featuring day-old croissants soaked in a rich and flavorful custard made with eggs, eggnog, milk, brown sugar, and warming spices. It’s baked to golden perfection and dusted with powdered sugar, making it perfect for festive gatherings or a special weekend brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Croissants
- 6 croissants (Use day-old for better absorption.)
Custard
- 6 large eggs (Fresh for the best texture.)
- 2 cups eggnog (Store-bought or homemade.)
- 1 cup milk (Whole, almond, or oat milk can be used.)
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (Enhances sweetness.)
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg (Freshly grated preferred.)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (Ground for convenience.)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (Use pure for best flavor.)
For Serving
- Powdered sugar (Optional for dusting before serving.)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and thoroughly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, eggnog, milk, brown sugar, nutmeg, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Prepare Croissants: Tear the day-old croissants into bite-sized pieces for better soaking and distribute them evenly in the greased baking dish.
- Soak Croissants: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the croissant pieces, making sure they are fully soaked to absorb the flavors.
- Rest the Mixture: Let the croissant and custard mixture sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor and better custard absorption.
- Bake the French Toast: Place the baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes until the top is puffed, golden brown, and the custard is set.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the bake to cool for a few minutes before dusting generously with powdered sugar. Serve warm for a comforting festive breakfast.
Notes
- Day-old croissants are preferred as they absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
- Allowing the mixture to soak overnight enhances flavor and texture.
- If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the brown sugar slightly.
- Freshly grated nutmeg provides a more intense and aromatic flavor compared to pre-ground nutmeg.
