Maple Pecan French Toast
This isn't your average French toast. Thick slices of brioche bread get soaked in a vanilla-cinnamon custard, then cooked until golden with a caramelized exterior that shatters when you cut into it. Topped with butter-toasted pecans swimming in warm maple syrup, it's weekend breakfast taken to an entirely new level. Once you try this version, the plain stuff will never quite measure up again.
The custard is the foundation of everything. Eggs, cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a whisper of nutmeg create a rich bath that transforms ordinary bread into something extraordinary. Brioche is the ideal choice here because its buttery, tender crumb absorbs the custard beautifully without falling apart. Each slice gets a generous soak so the custard penetrates all the way through for maximum flavor in every single bite.
The maple pecans take two minutes to make and are completely addictive on their own. Toasted in butter until fragrant, then deglazed with pure maple syrup. They become candied, crunchy little nuggets of perfection. Pile them generously on top, dust with powdered sugar, and pour yourself another cup of coffee. This is the breakfast worth waking up early for.
Ingredients
- ● 8 slices brioche bread
- ● 4 large eggs
- ● 1/2 cup heavy cream
- ● 1/4 cup whole milk
- ● 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ● 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ● 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- ● 3 tbsp butter
- ● 1/2 cup pecans
- ● 1/3 cup pure maple syrup
- ● 1 tbsp powdered sugar
Instructions
- 1Whisk together eggs, heavy cream, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a shallow dish until well combined.
- 2Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Dip each slice of brioche in the custard, letting it soak for about 15 seconds per side.
- 3Cook the soaked bread for 3-4 minutes per side until deep golden brown and slightly caramelized on the edges. Work in batches, adding more butter as needed.
- 4In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add pecans and toast for 2 minutes, stirring often, until fragrant. Pour in maple syrup and simmer for 1 minute until warm and slightly thickened.
- 5Stack the French toast on plates, spoon the maple pecans and syrup over the top, and dust with powdered sugar. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
| Calories | 480 |
|---|---|
| Protein | 14g |
| Carbohydrates | 45g |
| Fat | 28g |
