Save Festive, bite-sized French toast cubes infused with creamy eggnog, stacked into a charming tree shape—perfect for holiday brunch gatherings.
This recipe quickly became a holiday favorite in my family because it looks beautiful and tastes like a dessert and breakfast in one.
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.
Pin it This dish always brings smiles at our holiday brunches whether kids or adults with its fun presentation and delicious flavors.
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.
Pin it A festive and delicious addition to any brunch table sure to impress and delight your guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
Brioche or challah bread provides a soft, rich texture that absorbs the eggnog custard well, but thick-cut white bread can be used as an alternative.
- → Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the soaked cubes ahead and refrigerate briefly. Reheat gently in a low oven before serving to maintain the crisp edges.
- → How do I shape the bites into a tree?
Arrange the cooked cubes in concentric circles on a serving platter, stacking carefully to form a tree shape. Use toothpicks or small skewers to stabilize.
- → What decorations complement the dish?
Fresh rosemary sprigs mimic pine branches, fresh berries add color, and a star-shaped fruit or cookie topper completes the festive appearance.
- → Can I add alcohol to the custard?
For an adult twist, a splash of spiced rum or bourbon can be added to the eggnog mixture for extra warmth and depth of flavor.