Print

Maple Pecan Overnight French Toast Bake

Maple pecan overnight French toast bake slice with citrus glaze on white plate.
Print Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

A cozy, make-ahead breakfast casserole that turns a regular morning into a celebration. Rich, custardy bread soaks overnight in a spiced maple mixture, then bakes with a caramelized pecan topping and a bright citrus glaze. It’s comfort food made easy, freeing you up to enjoy the morning.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 large loaf (16 oz) challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup pure maple syrup, plus more for serving
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted
  • 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
  • 1 tablespoon light brown sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • 1 cup powdered sugar
  • 2-3 tablespoons fresh orange juice
  • 1 teaspoon finely grated orange zest
  • 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Add the cubed bread in an even layer.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs. Whisk in the milk, 1/2 cup maple syrup, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tsp vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and 1/4 tsp salt until smooth.
  3. Pour the custard evenly over the bread. Gently press down with a spatula to ensure all bread is soaked. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
  4. The next morning, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a small bowl, mix the pecans, melted butter, 2 tbsp maple syrup, 1 tbsp brown sugar, and a pinch of salt.
  5. Uncover the baking dish and sprinkle the pecan mixture evenly over the top.
  6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the center is set, edges are golden, and topping is toasted. A knife inserted should come out clean.
  7. Let cool for 5-10 minutes. Meanwhile, whisk the powdered sugar, 2 tbsp orange juice, orange zest, and 1/2 tsp vanilla until smooth. Add more juice for a thinner glaze.
  8. Drizzle the citrus glaze over the bake just before serving. Serve warm with extra maple syrup.

Notes

Use stale or lightly toasted bread for best texture. Soak overnight for maximum custard absorption. The bake can be assembled and frozen (without topping) for up to 2 months; thaw in fridge before baking. For a blueberry version, add 1 cup of fresh or frozen blueberries with the bread cubes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.homestyletable.com/maple-pecan-overnight-french-toast-bake/