Make Ahead Orange Pecan French Toast Casserole, Perfect for Easter Brunch

Easter is just a little over a week away and I'm starting to think about my menu.  Here is a great idea for those of you who do brunch on Easter, or who need a good idea for a make ahead breakfast. When you serve it, you flip it over, so the bottom is at the top, and it makes its own syrupy, nutty topping.  Yum!

1 cup packed brown sugar
1/3 cup melted butter, additional butter for pan (or use cooking spray)
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1/3 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

1 teaspoon grated orange rind
1 cup orange juice
1/2 cup milk
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
5 large eggs
1 loaf of French bread cut into 12 one inch slices

Butter the bottom and sides of a 9 X 13 inch pan.  Combine brown sugar, melted butter, and maple syrup and spread over the bottom of the pan.  Coat evenly with the chopped nuts. Place bread slices in an even layer over the nuts. 

Now combine remaining ingredients and pour over the bread slices, making sure all the bread is covered.  Turn over the slices, if you are not sure they are fully coated.  Cover with plastic wrap and store overnight in the refrigerator.  When you are ready to bake, take the pan out and let sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Preheat oven to 350F. Bake for 35 minutes, or until lightly browned.  To serve, cut into slices. As you slide the slices out of the pan, flip them over onto the plate so the bottom is on the top and you get all the nutty goodness of the topping.  Serve with additional syrup and whipped cream if you wish.  Enjoy!

Happy Cooking!
Carol
a.k.a.Nonnie