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Lighter Eggnog French Toast Casserole (Overnight)

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A make-ahead, lighter version of eggnog French toast casserole that’s perfect for holiday mornings. Prep it the night before and wake up to a stress-free, delicious breakfast that tastes like dessert.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (14-16 oz) day-old brioche or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 cups light eggnog
  • 1 cup low-fat milk (or unsweetened almond milk for dairy-free)
  • 4 large eggs, room temperature
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Pinch of salt
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (or coconut oil for dairy-free)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prep the bread: Cut day-old brioche or challah into 1-inch cubes. Spread on a baking sheet and let sit uncovered for 30 minutes to dry out slightly. Alternatively, toast at 300°F for 10 minutes.
  2. Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together light eggnog, low-fat milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until fully combined and slightly frothy.
  3. Assemble the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread bread cubes evenly in the dish. Pour custard mixture over the bread, pressing down gently with a spatula to ensure even soaking. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight (8-12 hours ideal).
  4. Add the topping: Next morning, preheat oven to 350°F. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, and chopped pecans (if using). Remove casserole from fridge and let sit for 15 minutes. Sprinkle topping evenly over casserole.
  5. Bake: Place casserole in oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, until top is golden brown and center is set (slightly jiggly but not liquidy). Tent with foil if browning too quickly.
  6. Rest and serve: Let casserole rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with maple syrup, fresh berries, and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Don’t skip the overnight soak for best texture. Use day-old bread to avoid sogginess. Start checking for doneness at 35 minutes. Let rest 10 minutes before serving for clean slices. Can be made dairy-free or gluten-free with simple swaps.

Nutrition

Keywords: eggnog french toast casserole, overnight french toast casserole, lighter french toast casserole, holiday breakfast, Christmas brunch, make-ahead breakfast

Find it online: https://twinkletaste.com/lighter-eggnog-french-toast-casserole-overnight/