Baked French Toast Casserole with Maple Syrup

Directions

1. 1
   Slice French bread into 20 slices, 1-inch each. (Use any extra bread for garlic toast or bread crumbs). Arrange slices in a generously buttered 9 by 13-inch flat baking dish in 2 rows, overlapping the slices. In a large bowl, combine the eggs, half-and-half, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt and beat with a rotary beater or whisk until blended but not too bubbly.
2. 2
   Pour mixture over the bread slices, making sure all are covered evenly with the milk-egg mixture. Spoon some of the mixture in between the slices. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
3. 3
   The next day, preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
4. 4
   Spread Praline Topping evenly over the bread and bake for 40 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden.
5. 5
   Serve with maple syrup.
6. 6
   Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl and blend well. Makes enough for
7. 7
   Baked French Toast Casserole.