As the holiday season approaches, it’s time to elevate your breakfast game with the warmth and richness of Eggnog French Toast. This indulgent twist on a classic breakfast favorite combines the creamy, spiced goodness of eggnog with the comforting allure of French toast. Whether you’re hosting a festive brunch or simply craving a decadent morning treat, this recipe promises to infuse your kitchen with the festive spirit. Join us on a culinary journey as we delve into the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, cook notes, delightful variations, and keto and low-carb versions of this holiday-inspired delight.
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- 8 slices of thick bread (challah or brioche work well)
- 1 cup eggnog
- 3 large eggs
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Butter, for cooking
For Serving (Optional):
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
- Fresh berries
Instructions
Creating Holiday Magic on a Plate:
- Whisking Wonderland: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggnog, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Soak and Savor: Dip each slice of bread into the eggnog mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated. Allow the bread to soak for about 20-30 seconds, allowing it to absorb the festive flavors.
- Cooking Charisma: Heat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat and add a pat of butter. Place the soaked bread slices on the griddle and cook until golden brown on both sides, approximately 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve with Joy: Transfer the French toast to a serving plate. Serve warm with your choice of toppings, such as maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, and a scattering of fresh berries.
Cook Notes
- Bread Selection: Opt for thick slices of bread to ensure the French toast is substantial and can absorb the eggnog mixture without becoming too soggy. Challah or brioche are excellent choices.
- Saturate, Don’t Sog: While it’s essential to let the bread soak in the eggnog mixture, avoid leaving it in for too long to prevent the French toast from becoming overly soggy.
- Adjust Spices to Taste: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg quantities based on your preference for spiced flavor.
Variations
1. Nutty Elegance:
Sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or almonds over the French toast before serving for added crunch and richness.
2. Orange Zest Zing:
Add a burst of citrusy freshness by incorporating orange zest into the eggnog mixture.
3. Rum-infused Bliss:
For an adult twist, add a tablespoon of rum or bourbon to the eggnog mixture for a subtle boozy note.
Keto Version
For those following a keto lifestyle, make these adjustments:
- Keto Bread Alternative: Substitute traditional bread with keto-friendly bread made from almond flour or coconut flour.
- Low-Carb Sweetener: Replace sugar with a keto-friendly sweetener like erythritol or stevia.
- Almond Milk Magic: Use unsweetened almond milk instead of regular eggnog to reduce the carb content.
Low-Carb Version
To cater to low-carb preferences, make these changes:
- Almond Flour Addition: Add a tablespoon of almond flour to the egg mixture for added thickness and a nutty flavor.
- Berries Galore: Focus on low-carb berries like strawberries and raspberries for a fruity topping.
- Vanilla Extract Wonder: Choose sugar-free vanilla extract to maintain a low-carb profile.
Eggnog French Toast is not just a breakfast; it’s a celebration on a plate. This festive twist to a classic dish brings the joy of the holidays to your table, one decadent bite at a time. Whether you opt for the traditional version, explore delightful variations, or embrace keto and low-carb adaptations, the essence of this dish lies in its ability to evoke the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season. So, gather around, savor each bite, and let the rich, spiced aroma of Eggnog French Toast fill your home with holiday cheer. Here’s to starting your day with a touch of festive magic!
