5 from 2 votes
Betsy’s Butter Pecan Overnight French Toast Casserole
Prep Time
20 mins
Cook Time
40 mins
Total Time
1 hr
 

This may just be the best French Toast Casserole you'll ever have.  The bread is sweet, but not too sweet and the crunchy butter pecan topping really takes it to the next level.  You'll enjoy it with, and without, syrup.

Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Servings: 12 servings
Author: Betsy Edwards
Ingredients
Praline Topping:
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) butter , softened
  • 1/2 cup light brown sugar , packed
  • 1/2 cup pecans , chopped
  • 4 tablespoons flour
  • 1 (16 – 20 ounce) loaf Italian bread , cut into 1-inch slices then torn into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 8 large eggs
  • 5 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 cup milk
  • 3 cups heavy cream
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla
  • 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions
2 nights before serving:
  1. Slice the bread in 1 inch slices. Tear each slice into 1 inch pieces. Put the pieces of bread in the pan in an even layer. Let sit out on the counter, uncovered.
  2. Combine all ingredients for Praline Topping in a medium bowl, blend well, cover and set aside.
  3. Night before serving:
  4. Using 1 tablespoon butter, grease a 9" x 13" pan or deep 2-quart casserole.
  5. In a large bowl, combine 8 eggs, 3 cups heavy cream, 1 cup milk, 5 tablespoons sugar, 2 teaspoons vanilla, ¾ teaspoon cinnamon, ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg and ¼ teaspoon salt. Beat with a whisk until blended. Pour mixture over the bread slices. Using a wide flat spatula, mix by gently lifting and rearranging the bread pieces, making sure pieces all are covered evenly.

MAKE AHEAD NOTE: Can be made up to this point, covered with foil and refrigerated for up to 24 hours. It’s best if it sits at least 8 hours.
  1. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Spread Praline Topping evenly over the bread, pressing most of it into the spaces between the bread pieces. Bake about 40 minutes, or until puffed and lightly golden. Custard should be set, but still slightly wet.
  2. Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup.