I LOVE french toast, so when I saw this recipe for French toast casserole I had to try it! And I am happy to report, I wasn't disappointed!! One of the great things about this recipe is how easy it is and how many servings you get out of it. If you need to make breakfast for a group of about 10 people, this works perfect! Only downfall is you have to plan ahead in order to let the bread soak up all the liquid. But it is well worth it!!!

INGREDIENTS:

Firm white bread ( 12 slices)- * I use Texas toast or challah is another great option.
1/3 cup pecans or walnuts ( optional)
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
8 Lg eggs
1 3/4 cups milk
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
maple syrup, for serving


Directions:
* Generously grease a 13 by 9 inch glass baking dish with softened butter
* Slice the bread into 12 ( 1 inch) slices- ( if the bread you choose isn't all ready sliced) Then cut each slice into 1 inch cubes
* Chop the nuts using a knife or food chopper
* In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, cinnamon and chopped pecans or walnuts
* Arrange half the bread in a single layer in the prepared dish, then sprinkle half the sugar mixture evenly over the top. Add a second layer with the remaining bread and top with remaining sugar mixture
* In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs. Add the milk and vanilla extract, whisking until well blended.
* Starting from the sides of the dish and working towards the center, pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread. With a spatula, gently press down on the bread to coat it with the egg mixture. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.

This is what the casserole looks like after adding the egg mixture.  At this point you will cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for 4hours or overnight. If you wanted to add fruit to this recipe, I would add it when you are layering the bread and sugar. Just add the layer of fruit on top of the bread and then sprinkle with sugar mixture.  I haven't tried any fruits yet but think, raisins, cranberries, blueberries or strawberries would taste great!

* Heat the oven to 350 degrees. Bake the casserole covered for 20 min. then remove the foil and continue baking until the casserole turns a light golden brown and looks slightly puffed, about 30 min more. Serve warm with maple syrup.

And Voila breakfast for 12 :). I like to spread butter over the top as soon as it comes out of the oven, helps the butter flavor soak into the french toast. Then smother in syrup!!! Delicious!!!