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Pecan-Maple French Toast

Pecan-Maple French Toast Casserole

The Crispy Chef
This decadent pecan-maple French toast casserole transforms day-old brioche into a rich custard-soaked bake with a caramelized pecan-maple topping. Perfect for holidays or weekend brunch, it’s make-ahead friendly and serves a crowd with ease.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Course Breakfast, brunch
Cuisine American, French-inspired
Servings 8 squares
Calories 610 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large whisk
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • plastic wrap or foil

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 cup (115 g) unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) pure maple syrup
  • 1/4 cup (55 g) light brown sugar, packed
  • 1 cup (115 g) chopped pecans
  • 1 loaf (450 g) day-old brioche or challah bread, cubed
  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1 pinch salt

Instructions
 

  • Whisk together melted butter, maple syrup, and brown sugar. Pour into a greased 9x13-inch baking dish and sprinkle pecans on top.
  • Arrange cubed bread evenly over the pecan mixture and press lightly.
  • Whisk eggs, milk, cream, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour custard evenly over bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
  • Next morning, let the dish rest at room temp for 30 minutes while oven preheats to 375°F (190°C).
  • Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes until golden, puffy, and custard is set.
  • Let rest for 5 minutes. Flip onto platter for caramelized topping or serve directly from dish. Dust with powdered sugar if desired and serve with extra maple syrup.

Notes

Assemble the night before for stress-free baking. For variations, use challah, brioche, or sourdough bread. Substitute pecans with walnuts or omit nuts for a nut-free version. For dairy-free, use coconut or oat milk and vegan butter. Can also be made as individual slices instead of a casserole.

Nutrition

Calories: 610kcalCarbohydrates: 55gProtein: 15gFat: 35gSaturated Fat: 15gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 12gCholesterol: 235mgSodium: 350mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 3gSugar: 25gVitamin A: 850IUCalcium: 150mgIron: 2.8mg
Keyword french toast casserole, holiday breakfast bake, make-ahead brunch, pecan maple breakfast
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