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 at my family brunches, sparking smiles with every bite.
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 This recipe has created many cherished family moments during the holidays, bringing everyone around the table for a warm, festive treat.
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 Serve warm for best flavor and texture. Enjoy your festive brunch!
Recipe Guide
- → What type of bread works best for these bites?
Brioche or challah bread is ideal due to their soft texture and slight sweetness, which absorb the custard well and crisp nicely when cooked.
- → Can these bites be prepared ahead of time?
Yes, you can soak the bread cubes and cook them in advance. Reheat gently in a low oven before serving to maintain crispness.
- → How do you assemble the tree shape?
Arrange cooked bites in concentric circles on a platter, stacking layers upwards and securing with toothpicks or skewers. Add rosemary sprigs as branches and berries as ornaments.
- → Is there a way to add extra flavor to the soaking mixture?
You can add a splash of spiced rum or bourbon to the eggnog custard for an adult-friendly twist, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- → What toppings complement these eggnog bites?
Fresh berries, powdered sugar dusting, and a drizzle of maple syrup provide a delightful balance of sweetness and freshness to each bite.
- → Are there common allergens in this dish?
This dish contains eggs, milk, and wheat. Be cautious if using breads or toppings with tree nuts, and always check ingredient labels for allergens.