Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked apples, warm cinnamon, and toasty pecans wafting through your home. Our Overnight Baked Apple Raisin Pecan French Toast is not just a breakfast; it's a delightful morning experience that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This easy-to-make recipe allows you to prepare a scrumptious dish the night before, so you can enjoy a leisurely morning without the fuss of cooking. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting, indulgent meal that’s perfect for special occasions or a cozy weekend brunch. Are you ready to transform your breakfast routine? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 2 cups milk
- 4 eggs
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 apples, diced
- 1/2 cup raisins
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
Instructions
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish thoroughly with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until completely smooth and well combined.
- Cut bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly across the greased baking dish.
- Dice apples into small, uniform pieces and sprinkle them over the bread cubes.
- Distribute raisins and chopped pecans evenly across the bread and apple mixture.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture slowly and evenly over the bread, ensuring all bread pieces are moistened and absorbing the liquid.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing bread to fully absorb the custard mixture.
- Remove the dish from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to allow it to come to room temperature.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Uncover the dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Let the French toast rest for 5-10 minutes after removing from oven before serving.
- Optional: Serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or additional chopped pecans as garnish.
Tips
- Use Day-Old Bread: For the best texture, use day-old bread or a thicker variety like brioche or challah. This will help the bread absorb the custard mixture without becoming too mushy.
- Customize Your Fruits: Feel free to swap out the apples or add other fruits like bananas or berries for a unique twist. Just remember to adjust the sweetness if necessary.
- Let It Soak: Don’t skip the overnight refrigeration! This step is crucial for allowing the bread to soak up all the delicious flavors of the custard.
- Check for Doneness: Ovens can vary, so keep an eye on your French toast while it bakes. It should be golden brown on top and firm in the center.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Elevate your dish by serving it with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a sprinkle of extra pecans for added crunch.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 110mg
