Maple Pecan French Toast Bake
Maple Pecan French Toast Bake is a cozy breakfast treat that brings together the warmth of cinnamon-spiced bread, crunchy pecans, and sweet maple syrup all baked into a soft, custardy…
By Fatima
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Reading time: 6 min
Maple Pecan French Toast Bake is a cozy breakfast treat that brings together the warmth of cinnamon-spiced bread, crunchy pecans, and sweet maple syrup all baked into a soft, custardy casserole. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with an amazing aroma and makes you feel right at home from the very first bite.
I love making this bake when I have a little extra time on weekend mornings, especially because you can prepare it the night before and just pop it in the oven when you wake up. The pecans add such a nice crunch, and the maple syrup glaze gives it all just the perfect amount of sweetness. I always think it’s a great way to make breakfast feel special without much fuss.
This dish is perfect for sharing with family or friends around the table. I like serving it with a side of fresh fruit or a simple dollop of yogurt to balance the richness. It’s one of those recipes that’s simple but feels a little extra, and it never fails to bring smiles and second helpings.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Bread
- Brioche or challah are best for their soft, rich texture. They soak up the custard well without falling apart. If you don’t have these, thick-cut white bread or a sturdy sourdough work too.
- Eggs and Dairy
- Eggs create the custard base, while whole milk and heavy cream add richness. For a lighter version, try just milk or a milk alternative like almond or oat milk, but skip the heavy cream.
- Maple Syrup
- Pure maple syrup gives natural sweetness and depth. If unavailable, honey or agave syrup can work but change the flavor slightly. Reserve extra maple syrup to pour on top after baking—it makes a lovely finish.
- Pecans
- Pecans bring crunch and a warm, nutty flavor. You can swap in walnuts or almonds if needed. Toasting them lightly before topping enhances their aroma.
How Do You Get the Perfect Custardy Texture in a French Toast Bake?
The secret is soaking the bread long enough to absorb the egg mixture fully. Here’s how:
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread, then gently press down to help it sink in.
- Cover and chill for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the flavors meld and the custard absorb.
- Bake uncovered to allow the top to set and develop a golden-brown crust.
Patience is key—don’t rush the soaking step. It ensures each bite is soft inside but with a slightly crisp, caramelized top from the pecan topping and baked custard.
Equipment You’ll Need
- 9×13-inch baking dish – perfect size for spreading the bread and custard evenly for baking.
- Large mixing bowl – to whisk together eggs, milk, and spices easily without spills.
- Whisk – helps blend the custard mixture smoothly for even soaking.
- Small mixing bowl – handy for mixing the pecan topping before sprinkling.
- Plastic wrap – to cover the dish while soaking overnight in the fridge.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap pecans for walnuts or sliced almonds for a different nutty crunch and flavor.
- Add fresh or frozen berries (like blueberries or raspberries) for a burst of tartness that cuts sweetness.
- Mix in a teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice during custard prep for a cozy fall twist.
- Stir in some cream cheese dollops between bread layers for extra creaminess and tang.
Maple Pecan French Toast Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast Base:
- 1 loaf thick-cut bread (brioche or challah), cut into large cubes or thick slices
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup pure maple syrup, plus extra for serving
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Topping:
- 1 cup pecans, roughly chopped (reserve some whole for topping)
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare, plus at least 2 hours (or overnight) for soaking the bread in the custard mixture. Baking takes about 45 to 55 minutes. Overall, you’ll want to plan ahead to allow the bread to soak so it becomes perfectly custardy and flavorful.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Arrange the bread cubes or thick slices evenly in the dish so they form a single, flat layer.
2. Mix the Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and well combined.
3. Soak the Bread:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread to help it soak up the custard. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and place it in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
4. Prepare and Add the Pecan Topping:
About 30 minutes before baking, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans, brown sugar, and melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the soaked bread casserole, adding some whole pecans on top if you like.
5. Bake and Serve:
Bake the dish uncovered for 45-55 minutes, until the custard is set and the top turns golden brown and bubbly. Let it cool for a few minutes, then drizzle extra maple syrup over each serving for a deliciously sweet finish.
Maple Pecan French Toast Bake — FAQ
Make-ahead, dairy-free swaps, storage, and bread tips.
Can I Use Frozen Bread for the French Toast Bake?
Yes—frozen bread works well. Thaw completely so it absorbs the custard evenly. Thaw overnight in the fridge or for a few hours at room temperature. Tip: slightly stale or oven-dried bread (300°F / 150°C for 8–10 minutes) resists sogginess and bakes up custardy inside, crisp on top.
Can I Prepare This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely. Assemble and soak overnight (8–12 hours), covered and refrigerated. Bake straight from the fridge; add 5–10 minutes if needed. If the top browns too quickly, tent loosely with foil for the last part of baking; remove the foil for the final few minutes to re-crisp.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in a 300°F (150°C) oven for 8–12 minutes or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. A drizzle of warm maple syrup (and a pat of butter) brightens flavors after reheating.
Can I Make This French Toast Bake Dairy-Free?
Yes. Replace milk/cream with plant milks (oat, almond, or coconut). For a richer texture, use full-fat coconut milk or a thicker oat milk. Swap butter with a dairy-free butter or a light brush of neutral oil for the topping.