Make-Ahead French Toast

This is almost like a bread pudding dessert--but for breakfast!

5 eggs, lightly beaten
1 1/2 cups milk
1 cup half-and-half cream
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 (1 pound) loaf French bread, cut diagonally in 1 inch slices
1/2 cup butter, melted
1 cup light brown sugar
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 cup chopped pecans

Directions
1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream and vanilla. Dip bread slices into egg mixture and place in a lightly greased 9x13”baking pan. Refrigerate overnight.

2. The next morning: Preheat oven to 350.

3. In a small bowl, combine butter, sugar, maple syrup and pecans. Spoon mixture over bread.

4. Bake in preheated oven until golden, about 40 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes before serving.

*Try using day-old bread for a firmer texture.