Baked Pecan French Toast
A deliciously creamy and nutty breakfast dish, Baked Pecan French Toast combines the comforting flavors of French toast with crunchy pecans, perfect for meal prep and busy mornings.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 1 loaf French bread The foundation for a rich and hearty dish.
- 6 large eggs Binds everything and adds protein.
- 2 cups milk Adds moisture and creaminess to the custard.
- 1 cup heavy cream Enhances richness and ensures a decadent experience.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar Provides sweet depth and encourages caramelization.
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract Enhances the overall flavor with a warm note.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon Adds a comforting spice that elevates the dish.
- 1 cup pecans, chopped Introduces a delightful crunch and healthy fats.
- butter for greasing Ensures nothing sticks and adds flavor.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick pieces, allowing for even soaking.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
Cooking/Assembling
- Arrange half of the bread slices in the greased baking dish, overlapping them slightly.
- Pour half of the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring every piece is soaked.
- Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans over this layer.
- Layer the remaining bread slices on top, followed by the rest of the egg mixture, and finish with the remaining pecans.
- Cover the dish with foil and let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
Serving
- Remove the foil and bake in your preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until golden and set.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly for easier slicing.
- Drizzle with maple syrup and garnish with additional pecans if desired.
Notes
For a unique flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom. Use stale bread for better texture — it soaks up the mixture without falling apart. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.