Individual Bourbon-Pecan French Toast Bakes Recipe

Cook Time: 45 minutes

Original recipe (1X) yields 4 servings

Ingredients

French Toast:

• 1 cup whole milk
• 4 large eggs
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Bourbon whiskey
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 5 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups dry whole-grain or challah bread cubes

Toasted Pecan Butter:

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup butter, softened
• 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar

Streusel:

• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup packed brown sugar
• 1/4 cup butter, cubed
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• Confectioners sugar, for garnish

Directions

1. Grease 4 (8 to 10 ounce) ramekins and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined.
3. Cut the bread into cubes and add them to the egg mixture. Toss gently to coat all the bread pieces in the mixture.
4. Evenly divide the soaked bread mixture between the prepared ramekins. Cover and chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
5. While the bread mixture chills, prepare the Toasted Pecan Butter. Preheat the oven to 325F (165C). Spread the chopped pecans in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet and toast for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Remove from the oven and let them cool to room temperature.
6. Once the pecans have cooled, place the softened butter, brown sugar, and vanilla extract in a food processor. Pulse until fully combined.
7. Add the cooled pecans to the food processor and pulse until the mixture reaches your desired consistency. Transfer the toasted pecan butter to an airtight and refrigerate until ready to use. It can be stored for up to 1 month.
8. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C) to bake the French toast.
9. For the streusel, combine the flour and brown sugar in a medium-sized bowl. Cut in the cold butter with a pastry blender or two knives until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in the chopped pecans.
10. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the bread mixture in the ramekins.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the French toast is puffed and a knife inserted into the center comes out clean.
12. Remove from the oven and serve warm. Top each serving with a generous spoonful of Toasted Pecan Butter and a dusting of confectioners sugar for garnish.

From the Editor

To make dry bread cubes, preheat the oven to 300F (150C). Cut 8 ounces of fresh bread into 3/4-inch cubes and spread them out on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 10 to 15 minutes, stirring twice, until the cubes are dry and crisp. Let them cool; they will continue to crisp up as they cool.

Alternatively, leave the bread cubes uncovered at room temperature for 8 to 12 hours to dry naturally.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	1030
Total Fat	81g
Saturated Fat	41g
Cholesterol	345mg
Sodium	876mg
Total Carbohydrates	62g
Dietary Fiber	6g
Total Sugars	35g
Protein	17g
Calcium	259mg
Iron	3mg
Potassium	430mg

History of Bourbon-Pecan French Toast

The bourbon-pecan combination is rooted in Southern American cuisine, where both bourbon whiskey and pecans are iconic ingredients. Bourbon, which originates from Kentucky, has been a part of American food culture for centuries. Pecan trees are native to the southern United States, and the nuts are widely used in everything from pies to savory dishes. French toast itself has been around since ancient times, but it became a popular breakfast dish in America during the 19th century. The modern twist of adding bourbon and pecans elevates this traditional recipe to a decadent brunch or dessert, combining rich, comforting flavors with a touch of Southern charm.

Regional Features of Bourbon-Pecan French Toast Bakes

This dish is a true representation of Southern American flavors, especially in the way bourbon and pecans are used. Kentucky bourbon, known for its smooth, rich flavor, adds a unique depth to the French toast batter. The use of whole-grain or challah bread cubes provides a hearty base, while toasted pecans give it a crunchy texture. This French toast bake is typically served as a more luxurious alternative to classic French toast, making it ideal for special occasions like brunches or holidays in the Southern United States.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

What sets this bourbon-pecan French toast bake apart from other similar dishes is the addition of bourbon and toasted pecans, which are not typically found in traditional French toast. Regular French toast is often made with egg-soaked bread, fried on a skillet, and topped with syrup or powdered sugar. In contrast, this recipe involves baking the soaked bread mixture in individual ramekins, creating a custard-like texture with a crunchy streusel topping. The bourbon and pecans give it a Southern flair, while the toasted pecan butter provides a rich finishing touch that traditional French toast lacks.

Where It Is Typically Served

Individual Bourbon-Pecan French Toast Bakes are often served in Southern American homes during holiday brunches, festive weekends, or special family gatherings. Their rich, indulgent nature makes them a favorite for occasions that call for an elevated breakfast or brunch experience. They can also be found in upscale diners or restaurants that focus on regional American cuisine, where they may be paired with mimosas or strong coffee. This dish is perfect for a leisurely Sunday brunch, particularly in states like Kentucky and Tennessee, where bourbon is a cultural staple.

Interesting Facts

• Bourbon, the primary alcoholic ingredient, must be distilled in the United States and aged in new charred oak barrels. It is a critical element in Kentuckys economy and culture.
• The pecan is not only a beloved Southern nut but also the official state nut of Texas and Alabama. Pecan trees can live for over 300 years, making them an iconic symbol of Southern landscapes.
• French toast dates back to ancient Roman times, but the modern version we recognize today began gaining popularity in Europe during the 16th century.
• This dish is a unique twist on a classic breakfast item, combining elements of sweet, savory, and boozy flavors, which appeal to a wide range of tastes and preferences.
• The toasted pecan butter used in this recipe can be stored for up to a month, making it a versatile topping for many dishes beyond French toast, such as pancakes or waffles.

FAQ about Individual Bourbon-Pecan French Toast Bakes Recipe

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