Ingredients and Weight:
- 1 loaf (1 lb) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup (8 fl oz) whole milk
- 1 cup (8 fl oz) heavy cream
- 1 cup (6 oz) granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup (4 oz) packed light brown sugar
- 6 large eggs
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- For the Praline Topping:
- 1 cup (4 oz) chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup (4 oz) packed light brown sugar
- 1/4 cup (2 oz) butter, melted
Preparation Time:
15 minutes
Cooking Time:
30-35 minutes
Difficulty Level:
1 (Simple)
Preparation Method Steps:
- Prepare the French Toast Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, eggs, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
- Add the Bread Cubes: Add the French bread cubes to the bowl and stir gently to coat.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or up to overnight.
- Make the Praline Topping: In a small bowl, combine the pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Mix well.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the French toast mixture into a lightly greased 9x13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the praline topping evenly over the top.
- Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed up, golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 65g
- Fat: 20g
- Sugar: 40g
Dish Characteristics:
- Rich and indulgent
- Crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside
- Sweet and nutty praline topping
User Comments:
- "This is the best French toast I have ever tasted! It's so easy to make, and the praline topping is amazing."
- "I love that I can prepare this the night before. It's a perfect breakfast for a busy morning."
- "The pecan topping adds such a nice crunch and sweetness. It's the perfect touch to this classic dish."
- "I made this for my family, and they absolutely loved it. It's a new favorite in our house."
- "I served this with fresh fruit and whipped cream. It was a delicious and satisfying breakfast that everyone enjoyed."
Special Precautions and Tips:
- If you don't have an overnight, you can soak the bread cubes in the mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking.
- To make a gluten-free version, use gluten-free French bread.
- For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and cream, and egg replacer for the eggs.
