INTRODUCTION
Overnight Pecan Pie French Toast is a cozy, sweet breakfast that tastes like dessert but works as a special morning treat. This recipe soaks French bread in a rich custard with pecans and a brown sugar topping. It bakes overnight in the fridge, so it is a hands-off dish that is ready to bake in the morning. This recipe is a great option when you want a make-ahead brunch or a warm weekday breakfast. For more pecan recipe ideas and a similar crunchy topping idea, see this pecan pie bark inspiration that pairs well with holiday breakfasts.
This dish is indulgent, but you can make a healthier version or a lighter option by swapping some ingredients. It can also be a great choice for meal prep since it stores well and reheats easily. Read on to learn how to make a version that fits your needs, whether you want a cozy treat or a lighter, higher protein meal.
WHY YOU WILL LOVE THIS RECIPE
You will love this Overnight Pecan Pie French Toast because it is easy to prepare and ready-to-bake in the morning. It saves time and can feed a crowd. It is also flexible: you can make a lighter option or a high protein meal by choosing different milk, bread, and toppings. This recipe is great for meal prep and works well for busy mornings. If you want a cozy fall twist, try a version inspired by pumpkin flavors with this pumpkin French toast idea to add seasonal taste.
Health and lifestyle benefits:
- Make-ahead overnight soak saves mornings and reduces stress.
- Swap ingredients to boost protein or lower sugar for a diabetic-friendly or weight loss plan.
- Portion control is easy when you bake in a dish and cut servings.
HOW TO MAKE Overnight Pecan Pie French Toast
This overnight bake uses common pantry items and simple steps. The custard soaks into the bread overnight so the slices bake tender and rich. Follow the recipe below for the classic version, or use the variations section to make a healthier version or a high-protein meal.
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
- Aluminum foil or plastic wrap
- Skillet (optional, for toasting pecans)
- Oven
Ingredients You’ll Need :
1 loaf of French Bread, 3/4 cup milk, 3/4 cup heavy cream, 6 eggs plus 3 egg yolks, 2 Tbsp vanilla extract, 6 Tbsp butter ((I used salted)), 1 cup light brown sugar, packed, 1/3 cup light corn syrup, 1/4 cup maple syrup, 1 cup pecans, chopped
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS :
The night before:
- Slice the French bread into 1-inch thick slices. Arrange the slices in a single layer in the 9×13 baking dish, slightly overlapping.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 6 eggs plus 3 egg yolks until smooth.
- Add 3/4 cup milk, 3/4 cup heavy cream, and 2 Tbsp vanilla extract. Whisk until combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices. Press the bread down gently so the custard soaks in.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerate overnight, at least 6–8 hours so the custard fully soaks into the bread.
The next morning:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt 6 Tbsp butter over low heat. Stir in 1 cup light brown sugar, 1/3 cup light corn syrup, and 1/4 cup maple syrup until smooth. Remove from heat.
- Stir in 1 cup chopped pecans into the sugar mixture. Pour the pecan topping evenly over the soaked bread in the baking dish.
- Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake another 10–15 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let the casserole cool 5–10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares and serve warm.
HOW TO SERVE Overnight Pecan Pie French Toast
Serve warm with a light dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of pure maple syrup. For a healthier version, top with plain Greek yogurt and fresh berries instead of syrup. Portion control tip: cut the dish into 8–10 equal pieces. One piece plus a cup of berries and a small scoop of yogurt is a balanced plate that adds protein and fiber without too many calories. This makes it easier to keep the meal good for weight loss goals or a balanced breakfast plan.
STORAGE & FREEZING : Overnight Pecan Pie French Toast
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, or warm in a 325°F oven until heated through. To freeze, cut into portions and wrap each piece in plastic wrap and foil, or use freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. These make-ahead tips help the recipe work as meal prep and make mornings fast and calm.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS
- Healthy side: A mixed green salad with a light lemon dressing can balance the richness for brunch.
- Balanced option: Serve with a cup of low-fat Greek yogurt to add protein and probiotics.
- Fruit: Fresh berries or sliced apples add fiber and vitamin C.
- Beverage: Unsweetened tea or black coffee keeps added sugars low and pairs well.
These serving ideas make the dish more heart healthy and help control calories while keeping the meal satisfying.
VARIATIONS
- Healthier version:
- Use half skim milk and half unsweetened almond milk instead of heavy cream to cut calories and saturated fat. Swap light brown sugar for a smaller amount of coconut sugar or a sugar substitute for a lower-sugar version. Use whole grain or sprouted bread to add fiber and make the meal more filling. This creates a lighter option that still tastes rich.
- High-protein or low-carb version:
- Make a high protein meal by using high-protein bread or swapping some eggs for liquid egg whites to boost protein while lowering fat. Serve with Greek yogurt on top for an extra protein boost. For a low-carb take, use a dense low-carb bread and reduce syrup in the topping, using chopped pecans and a bit of butter plus a sugar-free syrup alternative. These swaps help make the dish diabetic-friendly or better for weight loss.
- Air fryer or oven-baked version:
- For smaller portions, use small oven-safe ramekins to bake individual servings in the oven at 350°F. To use an air fryer, place soaked bread pieces in an air fryer-safe dish at 325°F and cook for 10–12 minutes, checking for doneness. The air fryer gives a crisp edge while keeping the center soft.
For a crunchy idea that uses similar flavors, you can try a pecan topping inspired by this pecan pie bark and graham crunch to sprinkle over the top for texture.
FAQs
Q: Is this recipe diabetic-friendly?
A: The classic recipe is high in sugar. You can make a diabetic-friendly version by reducing brown sugar, using a sugar substitute for the topping, using unsweetened milk options, and choosing whole grain or low-carb bread. These swaps lower the sugar and carbs and can make the dish better for blood sugar control.
Q: How long will leftovers stay fresh?
A: Store leftover pieces in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months.
Q: Can I make this recipe gluten free?
A: Yes. Use a gluten free French-style bread or a sturdy gluten-free loaf. The soak time remains the same, but texture may vary by brand. This makes the meal suitable for gluten-free diets.
Q: Is there a way to make it lower calorie?
A: Yes. Use lower-fat milk, reduce the butter in the topping, use less brown sugar, or substitute a lower-calorie sweetener. Serve smaller portions and add fresh fruit to keep volume without many extra calories. These changes make it a lighter option and more friendly for weight loss.
Q: Can I add more nuts or different nuts?
A: Yes. Increase pecans for more crunch or mix in walnuts or almonds. Be mindful of added calories from nuts if you are watching intake.
Q: How do I reheat without drying it out?
A: Reheat in the microwave with a damp paper towel over the piece for 30–60 seconds, or warm in a 325°F oven covered loosely with foil until heated through. This keeps moisture and texture.
MAKE-AHEAD TIPS FOR Overnight Pecan Pie French Toast
- Prep the night before: Assemble the dish the night before and refrigerate. This step makes mornings quick and stress-free.
- Portion and freeze: Cut into serving sizes before freezing so you can reheat single portions. This is ideal for meal prep and reduces waste.
- Topping on demand: If you plan to pack pieces for lunches or to be lower calorie, keep the pecan-sugar topping separate and add a small amount when serving. This lets you control sugar and calorie intake.
- Batch cook: Make two dishes at once and freeze one. Pull from the freezer for busy weeks to enjoy a warm breakfast any day.
These tips make the recipe great for meal prep and help keep your week moving smoothly.
Overnight Pecan Pie French Toast
Ingredients
Method
- Slice French bread into 1-inch thick slices and arrange in a 9x13 baking dish, slightly overlapping.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs and egg yolks until smooth.
- Add milk, heavy cream, and vanilla extract to the eggs and whisk until combined.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread slices and press down gently to soak.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate overnight, at least 6-8 hours.
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a small saucepan, melt butter over low heat and stir in brown sugar, corn syrup, and maple syrup until smooth.
- Remove from heat and stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan topping evenly over the soaked bread in the baking dish.
- Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set.
- Let cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares.