Ingredients
- 8 cups brioche bread, cut into cubes (about 12 cubes per slice)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups country fresh eggnog
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cold, cut into thin slices
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 medium Pink Lady apple, diced
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, eggnog, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and combined.
- Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter slices evenly scattered across the bottom.
- Sprinkle brown sugar over the butter in the baking dish to create a sweet, caramelized base when baked. Optionally line the pan with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
- Place cubed brioche bread evenly over the butter and sugar in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle diced Pink Lady apple evenly over the bread cubes.
- Slowly pour the eggnog custard mixture over the bread and apples, ensuring all cubes are well soaked.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or at least 4 hours for minimum soaking.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 32-36 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set but still moist.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
Notes
Use day-old brioche or challah bread to avoid a mushy texture; fresh bread absorbs too much liquid., Do not overbake to keep the casserole moist and custardy; remove from oven as soon as set and golden., If short on time, soaking the casserole for 30-60 minutes at room temperature before baking will still produce good results though less custardy., Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; add a splash of eggnog or milk when reheating to restore moisture., Optional add-ins include fresh berries, chocolate chips, cranberries, or chopped nuts for added flavor and festive flair.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Cuisine: American Holiday
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (approximately)
- Calories: Approximately 350 calories per serving
- Fat: 14g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 45g per serving
- Protein: 12g per serving