Pecan Praline French Toast is a delightful dish that transforms breakfast into a special occasion. This recipe combines the rich flavors of creamy custard with the crunchy goodness of pecans, making it incredibly delicious and satisfying. It’s simple enough for a casual brunch yet impressive enough for guests, perfect for busy days when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones.
Recipe Information
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Total Time: 8 hours 10 minutes (including refrigeration)
Servings: 8
Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information (per serving)
Calories: 420
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fat: 24g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 20g
Sodium: 300mg
Why Make Pecan Praline French Toast
Pecan Praline French Toast is not just a feast for the taste buds; it also offers indulgence with a touch of comfort. The creamy egg and milk mixture soak into the French bread, creating a custard-like texture that’s both rich and satisfying. With toasted pecans on top, you add a delightful crunch and nutty flavor that elevates this dish to new heights. Plus, it can be prepared the night before, making mornings easier and less stressful.
How to Make Pecan Praline French Toast Step by Step
Ingredients
1 loaf French bread, sliced
6 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1 cup pecans, chopped
Butter (for greasing)
Directions
- Grease a baking dish with butter. Layer the sliced French bread in the dish.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined. Pour this mixture over the bread slices, ensuring they are evenly soaked.
- Sprinkle chopped pecans on top.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Bake the casserole uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until golden and set.
- Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup if desired.
How to Serve Pecan Praline French Toast
Pecan Praline French Toast can be served in a variety of delightful ways. Pair it with crispy bacon or sausages for a heartier breakfast. You might also consider a fresh fruit salad on the side for a refreshing contrast or a dollop of whipped cream to enhance the sweetness. Another great idea is to drizzle additional maple syrup or add a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
How to Store Pecan Praline French Toast
To keep any leftovers, store Pecan Praline French Toast in the refrigerator in an airtight container. It will maintain its flavor for up to three days. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven or microwave until warm. If you want to freeze it, slice the dish into individual servings and wrap each slice tightly. To reheat frozen portions, thaw in the fridge overnight and then warm them in the oven.
Expert Tips for Cooking Pecan Praline French Toast
- Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs the custard mixture better.
- For added flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of bourbon or rum to the mixture.
- Make sure to cover the dish well when refrigerating overnight to prevent drying out.
- If you prefer a softer texture, soak the bread for at least four hours instead of overnight.
- Experiment with different types of nuts; walnuts or almonds can also work well.
Delicious Variations of Pecan Praline French Toast
To spice things up, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick. For a fresh twist, incorporate citrus zest from lemons or oranges into the custard mixture. If you’re looking for a vegetarian-friendly option, swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative, like almond or coconut milk, for a deliciously unique version.
Conclusion
Pecan Praline French Toast is a mouthwatering dish that combines sweetness and richness in every bite. Easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, you’ll want to make this recipe for every special occasion. Try it out and enjoy a perfect start to your day!
