Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf French bread, cut into cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 2 tablespoons melted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Then spread the cubes of French bread evenly across the dish, ensuring a uniform layer.
- Make the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined and smooth. This custard mixture will soak into the bread, imparting moisture and flavor.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking dish, making sure all pieces are well coated and submerged to absorb the custard.
- Add Toppings: Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly across the top of the soaked bread. Drizzle the melted butter over the pecans to help them crisp up during baking and add a rich flavor.
- Chill the Casserole: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight. This resting period allows the bread to fully soak up the custard, enhancing the texture and taste.
- Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), ensuring it reaches the correct temperature for even cooking.
- Bake the Casserole: Remove the cover and place the baking dish in the oven. Bake uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the casserole is set in the center and the top is a beautiful golden brown with toasted pecans.
- Serve Warm: Once baked, let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Serve warm, optionally drizzling with additional maple syrup for extra sweetness and moisture.
Notes
- For the best flavor and texture, allow the casserole to sit overnight after assembling to let the bread fully absorb the custard.
- Consider adding a powdered sugar glaze on top before serving to add extra sweetness and an attractive finish.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (+ at least 1 hour chill time, preferably overnight)
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast / Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian