09/02/2026
Maple-Pecan French Toast Bake
Golden and caramelized on top, soft and custardy underneath, with plenty of maple-glazed pecans in every serving. This is an easy make-ahead breakfast that’s especially nice for a slow weekend morning.
Ingredients
* 1 loaf brioche or challah (14–16 oz.), cut into 1½-inch cubes
* 7 large eggs
* 2 cups whole milk
* ½ cup heavy cream
* ⅓ cup pure maple syrup
* ¼ cup packed brown sugar
* 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
* 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
* ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
* ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Maple-Pecan Topping
* 1¼ cups roughly chopped pecans
* 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
* 2 tablespoons packed brown sugar
* 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
For serving
* Warm pure maple syrup, optional
Directions
1. Lightly butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt until thoroughly combined.
3. Pour the custard evenly over the bread. Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the mixture. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F.
5. Combine the pecans, melted butter, brown sugar and maple syrup. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the soaked bread.
6. Bake uncovered for 40–50 minutes, until the top is deeply golden and the custard in the center is set with no visible liquid remaining. If the pecans begin browning too quickly, loosely cover the top with foil.
7. Let the French toast bake rest for 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle individual portions with warm maple syrup, if desired.
Kitchen Tip: Slightly stale brioche or challah is ideal—it absorbs the maple custard beautifully while still holding its shape.
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Save this for your weekend breakfast—what's your favorite morning bake?