Praline French Toast Bake

I recently hosted a girls' brunch at my house with my friends.  This week all of the recipes will be brunch inspired.  This recipe can feed a crowd and it is prepared the night before and baked in the morning so it would be perfect for Christmas morning.  Your house also smells like warm vanilla and cinnamon.

Praline French Toast Bake
1 loaf French bread
8 large eggs (can use egg substitute)
1 cup milk
2 cups vanilla almond milk or whipping cream
2 T sugar
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg
2 tsp vanilla

Praline Topping
1 cup butter
1 cup brown sugar
1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
2 T light corn syrup
3/4 tsp cinnamon
1/4 tsp nutmeg

1. Slice the bread into 1 inch slices and arrange slices in a generously buttered 9 x 13 baking dish.
2. Combine the rest of the ingredients, except praline topping,  and beat with a whisk until blended, but not frothy.
3. Pour mixture over the bread, making sure all pieces are covered well.
4. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
5. Make praline topping by heating all ingredients in a saucepan and heating over medium heat.  Heat until boiling and boil until the top becomes frothy (about 4-5 minutes).
6, Pour evenly over the top of the bread.
7. Bake uncovered at 350 for 40-50 minutes or until puffed and golden.