French Toast Casserole with Pecans

Ready In: 1 Hr 45 Min 

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs
• 1 ½ cups heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 loaf (12 ounces) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon butter
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• ½ cup maple syrup
• ¾ cup pecans, toasted and chopped
• ½ cup maple syrup (for serving)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the French Toast:
   • Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy whipping cream, brown sugar, and vanilla extract.
   • Pour 1 cup of the egg mixture into the greased baking dish.
   • Add the French bread cubes to the dish, then pour the remaining egg mixture on top of the bread. You can press the bread down to make sure it soaks up all the liquid.
   • Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow the bread to soak. If you want to prep in advance, you can let it soak overnight.
2. Make the Pecan Syrup:
   • Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and maple syrup and mix until it’s completely smooth.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
   • Remove from the heat and stir in the pecans.
3. Bake: 
   
   • Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). 
   • Once the bread has soaked for at least an hour, pour the pecan syrup evenly over the bread mixture.
   • Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
4. Serve:
   • Allow the casserole to cool slightly. Then, it’s time to dig in! You can top your french toast with maple syrup, fruit, whipped cream, or just eat it straight out of the oven.