Description
Custardy French toast casserole made effortlessly in the Instant Pot and topped with toasted pecans—perfect for a hands-off, delicious breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread (about 12 oz), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
- 1/3 cup maple syrup (plus extra for serving)
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup chopped pecans, divided
- 1 tbsp melted butter (optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Grease a 7-inch springform pan or oven-safe dish that fits in your Instant Pot.
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
- Add bread cubes and 2/3 cup chopped pecans to the custard mixture. Stir gently to coat and press bread down to absorb the liquid.
- Cover the pan tightly with foil. Add 1 cup water to the Instant Pot and place the trivet inside.
- Set the foil-covered pan on the trivet, seal the lid, and cook on High Pressure for 25 minutes.
- Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the pan, uncover, and sprinkle with remaining pecans. Drizzle with melted butter if desired.
- Optional: place under a broiler for 2–3 minutes to toast the pecans and brown the top.
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving. Serve warm with additional maple syrup if desired.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better custard absorption.
- Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds if preferred.
- Use non-dairy milk and cream for a dairy-free version.
- Add chocolate chips, raisins, or berries for variety.
- This can also be made in advance and stored overnight before pressure cooking.