Ingredients
Scale
- 1 loaf (16 oz) Challah or Brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup light brown sugar, divided
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1.5 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
- Step 1: Prep Pan – Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick spray.
- Step 2: Cube Bread – Slice the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly into the prepared baking dish.
- Step 3: Whisk Custard – In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, 1/2 cup brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt.
- Step 4: Soak Bread – Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down slightly to ensure all bread is soaked.
- Step 5: Chill Dish – Cover with foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or ideally overnight, to allow the custard to absorb.
- Step 6: Prepare Topping – Mix the remaining brown sugar, melted butter, and chopped pecans in a small bowl.
- Step 7: Bake Casserole – Remove from fridge, sprinkle the topping over the bread, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 45-50 minutes.
- Step 8: Garnish and Serve – Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing; serve warm with plenty of maple syrup.
Notes
Using day-old or slightly stale bread helps prevent the casserole from becoming too soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: French-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 485 kcal
- Sugar: 26g
- Sodium: 340mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0.5g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 11g
- Cholesterol: 225mg
Keywords: French Toast, Casserole, Brunch, Baked French Toast, Breakfast Bake, Cinnamon