Save to Pinterest Festive, bite-sized French toast cubes infused with creamy eggnog, stacked into a charming tree shape—perfect for holiday brunch gatherings.
This recipe has become a family favorite during the holiday season, bringing joy to our brunch table with its festive shape and comforting flavors.
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 to Pinterest Gathering around this French toast tree has become a special holiday tradition for us, creating warm memories and smiles.
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 to Pinterest This eggnog French toast tree is the perfect festive touch to brighten your holiday brunch spread.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What bread works best for eggnog French toast bites?
Brioche or challah bread is ideal due to its soft texture and slight sweetness, but thick-cut white bread can be used as a substitute.
- → Can I prepare the eggnog mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can whisk the eggs, eggnog, and spices together in advance, but it’s best to soak the bread cubes shortly before cooking to maintain freshness.
- → How do I assemble the tree shape?
Arrange cooked toast bites on a serving platter in concentric circles, stacking upward. Use toothpicks or skewers for stability and tuck rosemary sprigs and berries as decoration.
- → What alternatives can I use for decoration?
Fresh rosemary sprigs create a pine effect, while berries add color. You may also use a star-shaped fruit or cookie as a topper.
- → Can I add alcohol to the custard mix?
Yes, a splash of spiced rum or bourbon can enhance flavor, but this is recommended for adult servings only.