5 from 2 votes
Betsy’s Butter Pecan Overnight French Toast Casserole for a Large Group of 50
Prep Time
30 mins
Cook Time
50 mins
Total Time
1 hr 20 mins
 
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Servings: 50 servings
Author: Betsy Edwards
Ingredients
Praline Topping:
  • 1/2 pound (2 sticks) butter , softened
  • 1 cup light brown sugar , packed
  • 1 cup pecans , chopped
  • 1/4 cup flour
  • 2 (16 – 20 ounce) loaves Italian bread , cut into 1-inch slices then torn into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 16 large eggs
  • ½ cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 2 cups milk
  • 6 cups heavy cream
  • 4 teaspoons vanilla
  • 1 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ¼ - 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
Special Equipment
  • 1 21” x 13” x 3.5” Disposable Aluminum Pan Full Size Steam Table Pan
Instructions
2 nights before serving:
  1. Slice the bread in 1inch 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 and set aside.
  3. Night before serving:

  4. Using 1 tablespoon butter, grease a 21” x 13” x 3.5” disposable aluminum pan.

  5. In a large bowl, combine 16 eggs, 2 cups milk, 6 cups cream, 1/2 cup plus 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, 4 teaspoons vanilla, 1 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg and 1/2 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 45 - 55 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.