Save Festive, bite-sized French toast cubes infused with creamy eggnog, stacked into a charming tree shape—perfect for holiday brunch gatherings.
This recipe is a delightful holiday tradition that brings warmth and joy to our family mornings.
Ingredients
- French Toast: 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (about 16 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes, 4 large eggs, 1 cup eggnog, 1/4 cup whole milk, 2 tbsp granulated sugar, 1 tsp vanilla extract, 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon, 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg, Pinch of salt, 2 tbsp unsalted butter (for frying)
- Decoration & Assembly: 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for dusting), Fresh rosemary sprigs (for tree branches), 1/2 cup fresh berries (such as raspberries, blueberries, or cranberries), Maple syrup (for serving), Star-shaped fruit or cookie (for tree topper, optional), Toothpicks or small skewers
Instructions
- Step 1:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Step 2:
- Add bread cubes to the eggnog mixture. Gently toss until cubes are evenly coated. Let soak for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure all sides absorb the custard.
- Step 3:
- Heat 1 tbsp butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Working in batches, add soaked bread cubes and cook, turning occasionally, until all sides are golden brown and cooked through about 2–3 minutes per side. Add additional butter as needed for each batch.
- Step 4:
- Transfer cooked French toast bites to a paper towel-lined plate.
- Step 5:
- Once all bites are cooked, assemble the tree On a large serving platter, arrange bites in concentric circles, stacking to form a tree shape. Use toothpicks or skewers for stability, if desired.
- Step 6:
- Tuck rosemary sprigs between bites to mimic tree branches. Decorate with berries as ornaments. Place a star-shaped fruit or cookie at the top as a tree topper, if using.
- Step 7:
- Dust with powdered sugar to resemble snow. Serve immediately with maple syrup on the side.
Save Our family loves gathering around the table, enjoying these French toast bites and sharing holiday stories.
Required Tools
Large mixing bowl, Whisk, Large nonstick skillet, Spatula or tongs, Paper towels, Serving platter, Toothpicks or small skewers
Allergen Information
Contains Eggs, Milk (dairy), Wheat (gluten). May contain Tree nuts if using certain bread or toppings. Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Nutritional Information
Calories 295, Total Fat 10 g, Carbohydrates 41 g, Protein 8 g (per serving)
Save These eggnog French toast bites make any holiday morning extra special and memorable.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of bread works best?
Brioche or challah bread is ideal for its sturdy yet soft texture, which absorbs the custard well without falling apart.
- → Can I add alcohol for extra flavor?
Yes, a splash of spiced rum or bourbon can be added to the eggnog mixture for adults to enhance the festive flavor.
- → How do I keep the bites crispy after cooking?
Drain cooked bites on paper towels and serve immediately, or keep warm in a low oven to maintain crispness.
- → Are there vegetarian options available?
This dish is naturally vegetarian as it includes dairy and eggs but contains no meat products.
- → How can I assemble the bites into a tree shape?
Arrange the golden cubes in concentric circles, stacking carefully and stabilizing with toothpicks or skewers. Garnish with fresh berries and rosemary sprigs for a festive appearance.