French Toast Casserole with Pecans: A Sweet Delight

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French Toast Casserole with pecans is the ultimate brunch dish that never fails to impress. The combination of crunchy cinnamon-sugar topping and a soft, custardy center brings comfort and joy to every bite. Imagine a delightful dish made from quality bread soaked in a rich egg and milk mixture, baked to golden perfection. This casserole is perfect for gatherings, and it can even be prepared the night before, making mornings a breeze. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that will elevate your brunch experience!

Why You’ll Love This French Toast Casserole with

This dish is not only a feast for the eyes but also a treat for the taste buds. Here’s why you’ll adore it:

It’s a crowd-pleaser that satisfies both kids and adults.
Perfect for brunch, especially when entertaining guests.
Can be prepared as an Overnight French Toast Casserole with minimal effort.
Offers a delightful mix of textures with crunchy pecans and soft bread.
Easy to customize with fruits like berries or apples for added flavor.
Served with maple syrup, it elevates the experience.
This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, catering to various diets.
It allows for creativity with toppings like whipped cream or nuts.

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: Slice the bread into 1-inch slices, then cut those slices into 1-inch cubes or tear apart with your hands, leaving the crusts on.
Step 2: Lightly grease a 2-quart or 3-quart baking dish with cooking spray or butter. Layer enough bread cubes to cover the bottom, then 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. Pour this mixture evenly over the layered bread and pecans, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Optionally, cover and refrigerate Overnight or proceed to bake immediately.
Step 4: In another bowl, combine the melted unsalted butter, packed dark brown sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and a pinch of kosher salt. Drizzle this mixture evenly over the soaked bread chunks.
Step 5: Place the casserole uncovered in an oven preheated to the center rack position and bake for 35 to 45 minutes, usually about 38 minutes, until the top is golden and crunchy to your liking.
Step 6: Allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. Sprinkle dried cranberries and sift powdered sugar on top. Serve with maple syrup on the side.

French Toast Casserole with Pecans: A Sweet Delight - French Toast Casserole with - main visual representation

Pro Tips for the Perfect French Toast Casserole with

Keep these in mind:

Refrigerating overnight enhances the flavors.
Adjust baking time for desired crispiness.
Experiment with different breads like brioche or challah for unique flavors.
For added sweetness, try incorporating a French Toast Casserole with Cream Cheese layer.

Best Ways to Serve French Toast Casserole with

Here are a few delicious serving ideas:

Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup and a dollop of whipped cream.
Top with fresh fruits like strawberries or blueberries for a refreshing twist.
Add a sprinkle of nuts for extra crunch and flavor.

How to Store and Reheat French Toast Casserole with

To store leftovers, cover the casserole dish tightly and refrigerate. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until heated through. This makes for an excellent meal prep option!

Frequently Asked Questions About French Toast Casserole with

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

The secret lies in allowing the bread to soak thoroughly in the egg mixture. This ensures a custardy texture throughout, especially if made as an Overnight French Toast Casserole with plenty of time to absorb the flavors.

Can I make French Toast Casserole with ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. Just cover it and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake in the morning.

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

To avoid dryness, ensure that the bread is properly soaked and use a good quality bread. Also, keep an eye on the baking time to prevent overcooking.

Variations of French Toast Casserole with You Can Try

Here are some delightful variations to explore:

French Toast Casserole with Berries: Add a mix of your favorite berries for a fruity twist.
French Toast Casserole with Apples: Incorporate sliced apples and a touch of cinnamon for a warm apple pie flavor.
Healthy French Toast Casserole with: Substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk for a lighter option.
Baked French Toast Casserole with Nuts: Top with various nuts for added texture and flavor.

French Toast Casserole with Pecans: A Sweet Delight - French Toast Casserole with - additional detail

For more delicious recipes, check out our best zucchini bread recipe or explore creamy sausage potato chowder for a comforting meal. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, try our gingerbread cheesecake cookies.