Praline French Toast

I made this for our Neighborhood Christmas Brunch.  We love pecan pie and this was so tasty.  

Praline French Toast  (Serves 8)
8 eggs

1-1/2 cups half and half

1/3 cup maple syrup

1/3 cup packed light brown sugar

10 to 12 slices soft bread, 1 inch thick, cut into cubes-whole wheat was delicious

Topping:1/4 cup butter

1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
1/3 cup maple syrup
1 cups chopped pecans

Generously butter a 13 x 9 inch casserole dish. Mix the eggs, half and half, maple syrup, and sugar in a large bowl.  Mix the bread cubes with the egg mixture and place in the prepared casserole dish.  Cover with plastic wrap and let soak overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat the oven to 350º degrees F. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator.
Make the topping: Melt the butter in a saucepan. Add the sugar and maple syrup and cook for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in the pecans. Pour the mixture over the bread and bake for 45 to 55 minutes. Allow to sit for 10 minutes before serving.

Serve with whipped cream and fruit.  Bananas are awesome, but so are strawberries!