Save Festive, bite-sized French toast cubes infused with creamy eggnog, stacked into a charming tree shape—perfect for holiday brunch gatherings.
This has become a favorite at our family holiday brunches, bringing everyone together around the table.
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 recipe always brings a warm and joyful atmosphere to our family gatherings, making holidays even more special.
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 Ready in just 30 minutes, this festive treat is sure to become a holiday tradition in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread works best?
Brioche or challah bread cut into 1-inch cubes provides a soft, rich base that absorbs the custard well.
- → Can I prepare the bites ahead of time?
Yes, cook the bites in advance and reheat gently in a low oven to maintain their softness and warmth.
- → How do I assemble the tree shape?
Arrange the cooked bites in concentric circles on a platter, stacking them upwards and securing with toothpicks if needed.
- → What spices are included in the custard?
The custard blends vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt for a warm, aromatic flavor.
- → Are there any suggested garnishes?
Fresh rosemary sprigs resemble tree branches, berries add color like ornaments, and powdered sugar simulates snow.
- → Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes, substitute the bread with a gluten-free variety to accommodate dietary needs.