Eggnog French Toast Casserole (diabetic)
Printed from Inclusive Kitchen — Eggnog French Toast Casserole
Eggnog French Toast Casserole is a festive dish that combines the creamy, spiced flavors of eggnog with the comforting texture of French toast. This diabetic-friendly version allows you to indulge without the guilt, using lower sugar and sensible carb swaps. Imagine waking up to a warm, cinnamon-scented casserole that feels like a holiday hug on a plate. It’s perfect for brunch gatherings or cozy family breakfasts, and it’s sure to impress even the most discerning of taste buds.
Historically, French toast has roots that trace back to ancient Rome, where bread was soaked in a mixture of milk and eggs before being fried. Over the centuries, it has evolved into various forms across cultures, but the essence remains the same: a delicious way to use up stale bread. This casserole version takes that classic concept and elevates it with the seasonal flavors of eggnog, making it a fitting centerpiece for your holiday table.
To make this dish diabetic-friendly, we swap out traditional sugar for a sugar substitute and use whole grain bread for added fiber. The result is a casserole that not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also keeps your blood sugar in check. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy more time with family and less time in the kitchen. Just remember, the only thing you should be whisking on a holiday morning is the eggnog mixture, not your stress levels!
Ingredients
- 8 cups whole grain bread, cubed
- 2 cups unsweetened almond milk
- 1 cup eggnog (sugar-free)
- 6 eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.5 teaspoon nutmeg
- 0.5 cup sugar substitute (like erythritol)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 0.5 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the casserole evenly without burning the top.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, almond milk, eggnog, vanilla extract, sugar substitute, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. This mixture will create a rich custard base for your casserole.
- In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, layer the cubed whole grain bread evenly. Make sure to use bread that is a day or two old for the best texture.
- Pour the eggnog mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the custard.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight if you prefer. This step allows the bread to soak up the flavors and ensures a custardy texture.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10 minutes before baking. This helps the dish bake more evenly.
- Sprinkle the melted butter over the top of the casserole, and if desired, add chopped pecans for a delightful crunch. The butter will help create a golden, crispy top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. The casserole should puff up slightly during baking.
- Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This resting time allows the custard to set, making it easier to serve.
- Serve warm, optionally drizzled with a little more sugar-free eggnog or a sprinkle of cinnamon. Enjoy this festive dish with family and friends, and watch it disappear!
Nutrition (per serving)
- Calories: 180
- Carbs g: 20
- Protein g: 8
- Fat g: 7
- Sugar g: 2
