Overnight Pecan French Toast

Overnight Pecan French Toast is a decadent breakfast treat that combines the richness of French toast with the irresistible crunch of caramelized pecans. This dish is prepared the night before, allowing the bread to soak up a delicious mixture of eggs, milk, and warm spices. When baked in the morning, the pecan topping transforms into a sweet, buttery glaze that adds the perfect finishing touch. Ideal for special occasions or leisurely weekends, this make-ahead French toast will impress your family and guests with minimal morning effort.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of French bread or brioche, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the pecan topping:

• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 tablespoon light corn syrup or maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. Prepare the French toast: Arrange the slices of bread in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, slightly overlapping each slice.
2. Make the egg mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
3. Soak the bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices, ensuring that all pieces are covered. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
4. Preheat the oven: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
5. Prepare the pecan topping: In a medium bowl, mix the melted butter, brown sugar, chopped pecans, light corn syrup (or maple syrup), and cinnamon.
6. Top and bake: Spread the pecan mixture evenly over the soaked bread slices. Bake the French toast for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
7. Serve: Let the dish cool slightly before serving. Serve warm with additional maple syrup if desired.

Enjoy this sweet and crunchy Overnight Pecan French Toast, the perfect start to a relaxed and indulgent morning!