Pecan Rum French Toast Cook's Illustrated

Indulge in the luxurious flavors of Pecan Rum French Toast, a Cook’s Illustrated creation that elevates breakfast to a gourmet experience. Thick slices of challah or brioche are soaked in a rich custard infused with dark rum, fragrant vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Topped with toasted pecans for a nutty crunch and a drizzle of warm maple syrup, this decadent dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or special morning treats. With just 15 minutes of prep time and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe combines elegance and comfort in every bite. Whether you're hosting guests or simply indulging yourself, this flavor-packed French toast is guaranteed to impress.

Nutriscore Rating: 60/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:20 mins

Total Time:35 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 cup Whole milk
• 0.5 cup Heavy cream
• 4 large Eggs
• 2 tablespoons Granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons Dark rum
• 1 teaspoon Vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon Ground cinnamon
• 0.25 teaspoon Nutmeg
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 8 slices Challah or brioche bread (thickly sliced)
• 2 tablespoons Unsalted butter
• 1 cup Pecans (chopped)
• 0 optional Maple syrup (for serving)

Directions

Step 1

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, rum, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth and fully combined.

Step 2

Arrange the thick bread slices in a single layer in a shallow baking dish or rimmed tray.

Step 3

Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the bread slices. Allow the bread to soak for 5-10 minutes, flipping the slices halfway through, until they are fully saturated but not falling apart.

Step 4

Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter to the pan, letting it melt and coat the surface.

Step 5

Carefully transfer 3-4 slices of soaked bread to the hot skillet (depending on the size of your pan) and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.

Step 6

Repeat the process with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter to the pan as needed for each batch.

Step 7

While the French toast is cooking, toast the chopped pecans in a small dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until lightly browned and fragrant. Set aside.

Step 8

To serve, plate the French toast and sprinkle generously with the toasted pecans. Drizzle with warm maple syrup if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1267.4g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3571.6

Total Fat 211.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 75.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.3g
Cholesterol 1275.3mg	0%
Sodium 2693.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 309.6g	0%
Dietary Fiber 20.2g	0%
Total Sugars 102.7g
Protein 91.7g	0%

Vitamin D 271.4IU	0%
Calcium 697.2mg	0%
Iron 18.7mg	0%
Potassium 1571.3mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 54.3%

Protein: 10.4%

Carbs: 35.3%