Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of Baked French Toast with Pecan Crumble wafting through your home, promising a delightful start to your day! This American classic is not just breakfast; it's a warm hug on a plate, perfect for leisurely weekends or special gatherings. With its buttery, crunchy pecan topping and a custardy bread base, this recipe is sure to impress family and friends alike. Ready to transform your mornings into a delicious celebration? Read on to discover how to whip up this mouthwatering dish that serves 8 and will have everyone asking for seconds!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 5 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until thoroughly combined and smooth. The mixture should have a consistent light yellow color and be well-blended.
- Cut the bread loaf into 1-inch cubes. If using day-old bread, it will absorb the egg mixture better. Spread the bread cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated. Gently press down on the bread to help it absorb the liquid. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes to allow maximum absorption.
- For the pecan crumble, mix chopped pecans with melted butter in a separate bowl. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the soaked bread cubes.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes. The top should be golden brown and crispy, and the center should be set but still slightly soft.
- Remove from the oven and let cool for 5-10 minutes. The dish will continue to set during this time.
- Serve warm, optionally topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or additional chopped pecans. Can be accompanied by fresh berries or whipped cream.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: For the best texture, use a loaf of day-old bread, such as brioche or challah. The staler the bread, the better it will soak up the egg mixture without becoming mushy.
- Let It Soak: After pouring the egg mixture over the bread cubes, give it some time to absorb the liquid—10 to 15 minutes is ideal. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect custardy center.
- Pecan Crumble Perfection: For an extra crunch, consider toasting the pecans lightly before mixing them with the melted butter. This enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch to your crumble.
- Bake to Golden Brown: Keep an eye on your French toast while it bakes. You want a beautiful golden-brown top, which typically takes about 40-45 minutes. If the edges are browning too quickly, cover the dish loosely with foil.
- Serve It Right: This dish is best served warm. Enhance your serving with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream for that extra touch of indulgence!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 12g
Cholesterol: 180mg
