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Pecan Pie French Toast

Pecan Pie French Toast

Indulge in the ultimate brunch treat with this Pecan Pie French Toast — buttery French bread soaked in creamy custard, topped with caramelized pecans, and baked to golden perfection. Each bite captures the cozy, nutty sweetness of Southern pecan pie in a comforting breakfast casserole.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 8 slices
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American, Southern
Calories: 640
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Base
  • 1 loaf (16 oz) French bread sliced into ½-inch pieces, day-old preferred
  • 8 large eggs room temperature
  • 1⅔ cups heavy cream
  • 1½ cups whole milk
  • 6 Tbsp granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
  • ½ tsp kosher salt
For the Pecan Topping
  • 10 Tbsp unsalted butter melted
  • ¾ cup packed light brown sugar
  • 6 Tbsp corn syrup or substitute honey or maple syrup
  • 3 cups pecan halves about 11 oz
For Serving
  • Maple syrup warm, for drizzling

Method
 

  1. Step 1 – Prep and Preheat: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish. Arrange bread slices in overlapping layers.
  2. Step 2 – Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk eggs, cream, milk, sugar, vanilla, and salt until smooth and fully combined. Whisk until sugar dissolves for an even texture.
  3. Step 3 – Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Press down gently so the bread absorbs the liquid. Let soak for 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight.
  4. Step 4 – Make the Pecan Mixture: In another bowl, whisk melted butter, brown sugar, and corn syrup until smooth. Fold in pecans until evenly coated.
  5. Step 5 – Assemble and Bake: Spoon pecan mixture over the soaked bread. Bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, until the custard is set and the pecans are caramelized. The center should no longer jiggle when done.
  6. Step 6 – Serve Warm: Let rest for 5–10 minutes. Serve with warm maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

To make ahead, assemble the dish the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Bake in the morning for an easy, impressive brunch. For a twist, add chocolate chips or a dash of cinnamon to the custard. Substitute maple syrup or honey for corn syrup if desired.