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 quickly became a favorite at our holiday brunches because everyone loves the festive tree presentation and the comforting flavors of eggnog infused in the French toast bites.
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 with family to assemble the French toast tree is always a joyful moment that adds to the holiday spirit.
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 bites tree is a festive and delicious way to impress guests with minimal effort.
Questions & Answers
- → What type of bread works best?
Brioche or challah bread is preferred for its soft texture and slight sweetness, but thick-cut white or gluten-free bread are also suitable substitutes.
- → Can I prepare the toast cubes ahead of time?
It’s best to cook and assemble the toast cubes fresh for optimal texture, but you can soak them and refrigerate briefly before cooking. Reheat in a low oven if needed.
- → How do I achieve the tree shape?
The cooked cubes are arranged in concentric circles and stacked vertically on a platter, secured with toothpicks or skewers. Rosemary sprigs and berries add a decorative, festive touch.
- → Are there any suggested flavor enhancements?
Adding a splash of spiced rum or bourbon to the soaking mixture gives an adult-friendly depth, enhancing warm spices naturally present.
- → What should I serve alongside?
Serve with maple syrup on the side for drizzling and optional star-shaped fruit or cookies as a tree topper for added festivity.