If you have a sweet tooth and a love for comforting breakfasts, you are going to fall head over heels for this Pecan Pie French Toast Recipe. Imagine thick slices of brioche or challah bread, soaked in a luscious custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla, then cooked to golden perfection. Topped with warm, sticky maple-coated pecans, this dish perfectly captures the indulgence of pecan pie in a breakfast form that’s easy enough to make any weekend morning. It’s the kind of recipe that not only delights your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that invites everyone to the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pecan Pie French Toast Recipe shines because of its simple but carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from the richness of the eggs and cream to the crunch and sweetness of the pecans, creating a harmony of flavors and textures.
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread: Slightly stale bread is best to soak up the custard without falling apart.
- 4 large eggs: The backbone of the custard, adding protein and richness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Helps create a creamy custard base.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Adds decadence and a silky texture to the custard.
- 1/3 cup brown sugar: Brings a deep, molasses-like sweetness that hints at pecan pie.
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar: Balances the brown sugar and enhances caramelization during cooking.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a warm, inviting aroma and flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a cozy spice note that pairs beautifully with pecans.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet flavors by adding contrast.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter for cooking: Ensures a golden crust and rich flavor without overpowering the toast.
- 1 cup chopped pecans: The star crunch that defines the pecan pie influence.
- 1/4 cup maple syrup plus more for serving: Used both for cooking the pecans and as a finishing touch for that irresistible sweetness.
How to Make Pecan Pie French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard
Start by whisking together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt in a large bowl until fully combined. This custard mixture is your indulgent soak that will infuse every bite with rich flavors. Take your time whisking to ensure the sugars dissolve completely and that the mixture is smooth and aromatic.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of your thick-cut brioche or challah into the custard. Let it soak for about 20 to 30 seconds on each side, making sure the bread absorbs enough mixture without becoming too soggy. Using slightly stale bread here works wonders — it’s absorbent yet sturdy enough to hold its shape, giving you a creamy inside with a perfectly crisp exterior after cooking.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot pan and cook each side for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’re aiming for golden brown slices that are cooked through but still soft inside. Don’t hesitate to add more butter in batches — it helps to get that irresistible, slightly crispy crust that makes this French toast sing.
Step 4: Prepare the Maple Pecan Topping
While the French toast cooks, combine the chopped pecans and 1/4 cup maple syrup in a small saucepan over medium heat. Allow the mixture to warm and thicken slightly for about 2 to 3 minutes. This warm, nutty syrup is the genius touch that turns ordinary French toast into a memorable treat, echoing the flavor of classic pecan pie.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once cooked, plate your French toast slices and spoon the warm maple pecan mixture generously over the top. Add extra maple syrup if you like things extra sweet. Serve immediately and prepare to be delighted!
How to Serve Pecan Pie French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream can add a beautiful contrast and an extra layer of indulgence. Fresh berries like sliced strawberries or raspberries work wonderfully to cut through the sweetness and add pops of color. For those who love texture, a few toasted pecan halves on top provide a lovely crunch and visual appeal.
Side Dishes
While this dish feels like a full meal on its own, pairing it with crispy bacon or sausage adds savory balance. A simple side of fresh fruit salad adds brightness and freshness to round out the plate. For a brunch gathering, consider serving alongside scrambled eggs or a light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
Creative Ways to Present
Stack your Pecan Pie French Toast Recipe slices for a towering, eye-catching centerpiece. Drizzle maple syrup artistically around the plate for a restaurant-style look. For a more casual breakfast, serve the topping in a small dish on the side so everyone can customize their portion. You could even layer the pecan mixture between slices for a luscious French toast sandwich twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. The French toast may soften slightly but will still taste delicious when reheated. Keep the maple pecan topping separate if possible to maintain its texture and warmth.
Freezing
This recipe freezes surprisingly well. Lay the cooked French toast slices on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag or container. Freeze for up to one month for best taste. Freeze the maple pecan topping separately in a small airtight container to preserve its quality.
Reheating
Reheat frozen or refrigerated slices in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F until warmed through and crisped outside, about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain that perfect texture. Gently warm the pecan syrup topping in a small pan or microwave for 15-20 seconds before serving again.
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche or challah?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah offer the richest texture and flavor, you can use other thick-cut breads like Texas toast, challah alternatives, or even sourdough. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to soak up the custard without falling apart.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives such as almond milk or coconut cream. Keep in mind the flavor and texture might vary slightly, but the dish will still be delicious.
Can the pecan topping be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the maple pecan mixture ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Warm it gently before serving to restore its syrupy texture and make your breakfast prep even easier.
What can I do if I don’t have maple syrup?
If you don’t have maple syrup on hand, honey or a rich corn syrup can be substituted in the pecan topping. The flavor will be a bit different but still delightfully sweet.
How do I prevent the French toast from becoming soggy?
Using slightly stale bread is key, as it absorbs the custard without disintegrating. Also, soaking each slice for just 20 to 30 seconds per side and cooking over medium heat ensures that the toast cooks fully and crisps up nicely on the outside.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan Pie French Toast Recipe is a breakfast game changer, blending the cozy flavors of pecan pie with the classic comfort of French toast. It’s perfect for slowing down on a weekend morning or impressing guests at brunch. I can’t recommend enough giving this recipe a try—you’ll create memories and full bellies with every delicious bite. Go ahead, treat yourself and anyone lucky enough to share your table with this amazing dish!
Print
Pecan Pie French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Pecan Pie French Toast is a decadent breakfast treat that combines thick slices of brioche or challah bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, then cooked to golden perfection on the stovetop. Topped with a warm maple-pecan syrup, this dish offers the comforting flavors of pecan pie in a classic French toast form, perfect for holiday mornings or special brunches.
Ingredients
Bread and Custard
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or challah bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Cooking
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
Topping
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup maple syrup plus more for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of thick-cut brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 20 to 30 seconds on each side to absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Heat 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and the toast is cooked through. Add more butter as needed for subsequent batches.
- Make the maple pecan topping: In a small saucepan set over medium heat, combine the chopped pecans and 1/4 cup maple syrup. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is warmed through and slightly thickened.
- Serve: Spoon the warm maple pecan syrup generously over the cooked French toast slices. Serve immediately with additional maple syrup if desired for extra sweetness.
Notes
- Use slightly stale bread for best texture and to ensure better absorption of the custard mixture.
- Keep cooked French toast warm in a 200°F oven while finishing the remaining slices to maintain heat and crispness.
- For a richer pecan flavor, toast the pecans lightly in a dry skillet before adding them to the maple syrup.
