Caramel Pecan French Toast
Indulge in the decadence of Caramel Pecan French Toast, a luxurious breakfast casserole that combines layers of soft, custard-soaked brioche or challah bread with a rich, buttery caramel pecan topping. Perfectly golden and irresistibly fragrant with hints of vanilla and cinnamon, this baked French toast features a velvety custard made from a mix of eggs, whole milk, and heavy cream, ensuring every bite is soft and flavorful. The caramelized pecan layer adds a delightful crunch and a nutty sweetness, making it an ideal centerpiece for special occasions, brunch gatherings, or holiday mornings. With easy oven-baking and a make-ahead option, this dish is a stress-free yet show-stopping way to elevate your breakfast table. Serve it flipped caramel-side-up for a stunning presentation, and pair it with whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra indulgent touch.
Log this recipe in SnapCalorie
Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons light corn syrup
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 8 slices thick-sliced bread (such as brioche or challah)
- 4 large eggs
- 1.5 cups whole milk
- 0.5 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 0.25 teaspoon salt
Instructions
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
In a small saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar and corn syrup, cooking until the mixture is smooth and bubbling, about 2-3 minutes.
Pour the caramel mixture evenly into the bottom of a 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the caramel layer.
Arrange the slices of bread in a single layer on top of the caramel and pecans. Slightly overlap the edges if necessary to fit all the slices.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices in the baking dish, ensuring all pieces are soaked. Gently press the bread down with a spatula to help absorb the liquid.
Let the dish sit for 10 minutes to allow the bread to fully soak up the custard.
Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and the custard is set.
Allow the French toast to cool for 5 minutes before serving. To serve, use a spatula to lift each slice and flip it caramel-side-up onto a plate.
Optional: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
4033 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 247.8 g | 318% | |
| Saturated Fat | 98.0 g | 490% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.4 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 1214 mg | 405% | |
| Sodium | 2548 mg | 111% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 394.8 g | 144% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 21.4 g | 76% | |
| Total Sugars | 247.5 g | ||
| Protein | 80.7 g | 161% | |
| Vitamin D | 8.0 mcg | 40% | |
| Calcium | 967 mg | 74% | |
| Iron | 17.6 mg | 98% | |
| Potassium | 1833 mg | 39% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
