Why You’ll Love This
French Toast Casserole with Pecan Crumble is a warm, comforting breakfast bake that combines soft custardy bread with a crunchy, buttery pecan topping. It’s perfect for holidays, weekend brunch, or feeding a crowd because you can prepare it ahead of time and simply bake it in the morning. The sweet cinnamon flavor, rich custard, and nutty crumble make every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
● 1 loaf (about 12–14 oz) brioche or challah bread, cut into cubes
● 6 large eggs
● 2 cups whole milk
● ½ cup heavy cream
● ⅓ cup granulated sugar
● ¼ cup brown sugar
● 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
● 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
● ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
● ¼ teaspoon salt
For the Pecan Crumble
● ½ cup all-purpose flour
● ½ cup brown sugar
● ½ teaspoon cinnamon
● ¼ teaspoon salt
● ½ cup pecans, chopped
● 6 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Optional Toppings
● Maple syrup
● Powdered sugar
● Fresh berries
● Whipped cream
Preparation Instructions
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Prepare the Baking Dish
Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. -
Add the Bread
Place the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. -
Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. -
Pour Over the Bread
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down so it absorbs the liquid. -
Chill the Casserole
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. -
Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). -
Prepare the Pecan Crumble
In a bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, salt, chopped pecans, and melted butter until crumbly. -
Add the Topping
Sprinkle the pecan crumble evenly over the casserole. -
Bake the Casserole
Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. -
Cool and Serve
Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes, then serve with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries.
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
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9×13-inch baking dish
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Large mixing bowls
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Whisk
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Measuring cups and spoons
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Knife and cutting board
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Spatula
Tips
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Use slightly stale bread: It absorbs the custard better without becoming mushy.
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Prep overnight: Letting the casserole soak overnight enhances the flavor and texture.
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Add fruit: Blueberries, apples, or bananas can be mixed into the bread layer.
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Extra crunch: Add extra pecans or a handful of walnuts to the crumble.
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Make it richer: Use half-and-half instead of milk.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve with warm maple syrup.
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Pair with fresh fruit salad.
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Enjoy with scrambled eggs or breakfast sausage.
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Serve with coffee, tea, or fresh orange juice.
Storage
Refrigerator:
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
Freeze baked casserole (tightly wrapped) for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
Reheat in the oven at 325°F (165°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave individual portions.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole the night before?
Yes. It’s actually recommended because the bread absorbs the custard better overnight.
2. What bread works best for French toast casserole?
Brioche, challah, or French bread work best due to their texture and ability to absorb the custard.
3. Can I make it without nuts?
Absolutely. Simply omit the pecans or replace them with oats for a crunchy topping.
Conclusion
French Toast Casserole with Pecan Crumble is a delicious, comforting breakfast dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for sharing. With soft custardy bread and a buttery, crunchy topping, it’s an ideal choice for holiday mornings, brunch gatherings, or a cozy weekend treat.
Nutrition Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 420 kcal
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Protein: 10 g
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Carbohydrates: 46 g
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Fat: 22 g
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Fiber: 2 g
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Sugar: 22 g
Nutrition values may vary depending on ingredients used. 🥞🌰✨
