Egg Nog French Toast Casserole

 The other day I posted about individual French toast covered in Rice Krispies.   Which is delicious and simple enough for one or two people.  But when cooking for a crowd, it might be a little time consuming.   Dipping, dredging, grilling... you'll be at the stove all morning!   Enter French toast casserole!

I make French toast casserole once a year, and usually with egg nog.  I love this recipe.  You can use any soft bread you have on hand.  I've used baguette or unsliced whole wheat bread from the bakery.  But my favorite is Challah or brioche.   I used Challah this time around.

Prepare this the night before so it the bread has plenty of time to absorb all the egg-y custard and flavors.  It'll take a good hour or so in the oven, so planning ahead is crucial.  This is a favorite of mine to serve on New Years Day, along with other dishes.   But I'm debating making this on Christmas morning this year, with croissants.   And as delicious as this is with egg nog in it, it's a perfectly good addition to any brunch buffet year round with regular milk.

You want to know the best part of a French toast casserole?  There is so much crispy, crusty real estate!  Love this part!

Egg Nog French Toast Casserole
1 loaf Challah bread (minus a slice or two is ok!)
6 eggs
2 cups egg nog
1/2 cup milk
3 tablespoons brown sugar, plus extra for top
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon fresh ground nutmeg
1/4 cup of rum or bourbon, optional

Dice the Challah into cubes and set into a large bowl.

In another bowl, combine the eggs, egg nog, milk, 3 tablespoons brown sugar, and spices.  Whisk until completely combined.   Pour over the bread cubes and toss until the bread is completely soaked.

Pour into a greased casserole dish, cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.

In the morning, preheat the oven to 325 degrees.  Bake the casserole, covered for 1 hour.  After an hour, remove the foil and sprinkle with extra brown sugar.  Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes and remove from the oven.  Serve with warm maple syrup.