French Toast Casserole with Pecans: A Perfect Brunch Delight

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French Toast Casserole with pecans is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. This dish combines a crunchy cinnamon-sugar top with a custardy center, making it the perfect brunch option. Whether you’re hosting friends or family, this easy French toast casserole recipe is designed to impress. The best part? You can prepare it the night before, saving you time in the morning. Let’s dive into how to create this scrumptious baked French toast dish.

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Casserole with

This French toast casserole with pecans is not just delicious; it offers several irresistible benefits. First, it’s a crowd-pleaser, making it ideal for brunch gatherings. Second, it’s incredibly versatile—you can customize it with fruits or even cream cheese for added richness. Additionally, this cinnamon French toast casserole is perfect for meal prep, as it can be made overnight. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover bread. Lastly, the sweet bread pudding casserole texture and flavors are simply delightful, ensuring everyone will enjoy every bite!

Ingredients for French Toast Casserole with

Gather these items:

1 large loaf good-quality French loaf, sourdough, ciabatta, or challah (enough to yield 10 cups of chunks of bread)
1/2 cup (45g) chopped pecans
5 large eggs
1 1/2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
Zest from one medium orange (optional)
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
3 tablespoons (40g) dark brown sugar, packed
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Pinch kosher salt
1/4 cup dried cranberries
1/4 cup powdered sugar
1 tablespoon maple syrup

How to Make French Toast Casserole with Step-by-Step

Step 1: Place an oven rack in the center position. Slice the bread into 1-inch slices and then cut the slices into 1-inch cubes or tear them apart by hand, leaving the crusts on.
Step 2: Lightly grease a 2-quart or 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Add enough bread cubes to cover the bottom and sprinkle a few tablespoons of pecans over them. Continue layering bread chunks and pecans until all are used.
Step 3: In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, orange zest (if using), 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the egg and milk mixture evenly over all the bread chunks in the baking dish. For ease, pour the mixture into a large measuring cup with a spout before pouring. At this stage, you can bake immediately or cover and refrigerate overnight for a make-ahead option.
Step 5: In another bowl, mix melted unsalted butter with dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of kosher salt.
Step 6: Drizzle the butter and sugar mixture evenly over the bread chunks. Bake the casserole uncovered for 35 to 45 minutes. Bake for about 38 minutes for a balanced browning or longer if you prefer a crunchier top.
Step 7: Let the casserole cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle dried cranberries and dust powdered sugar on top. Serve with maple syrup on the side.

Pro Tips for the Best French Toast Casserole with

Keep these in mind:

Use stale bread for better absorption of the egg mixture.
For a creamier texture, consider adding cream cheese between layers.
Feel free to add fruits like berries or bananas for a fresh twist.
Don’t skip the cooling time; it allows the casserole to set.

Best Ways to Serve French Toast Casserole with

There are countless ways to enjoy this delicious French toast casserole with pecans. One great option is to serve it warm with a drizzle of maple syrup. You can also add fresh fruits on top, such as berries or sliced bananas, for a refreshing touch. For an elegant brunch, serve it alongside a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream!

How to Store and Reheat French Toast Casserole with

To store any leftovers, cover the casserole tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate. It can last up to 3 days in the fridge. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through. This make-ahead option makes it perfect for meal prep!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Toast Casserole with

What’s the secret to perfect French Toast Casserole with?

The secret lies in using the right type of bread, allowing it to soak long enough in the egg mixture, and baking it to golden perfection for a crunchy top.

Can I make French Toast Casserole with ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared the night before. Just cover it and refrigerate, then bake it in the morning for a hassle-free brunch.

How do I avoid common mistakes with French Toast Casserole with?

To avoid sogginess, ensure your bread is a little stale and don’t rush the soaking time—let it absorb the custard mixture well before baking.

Variations of French Toast Casserole with You Can Try

Feel free to get creative with your French toast casserole! Try using croissants for a buttery twist or adding a variety of fruits like strawberries and blueberries. For a healthier option, consider using whole grain bread or adding oats to the mix for added texture. This versatile dish can cater to any dietary need!

For more delicious recipes, check out our recipe collection or learn about baking techniques to enhance your skills!