Rumor has it that this may be the best french toast recipe around. It's kind of like a sticky-bun and french toast all in one. Best of all, you can make it the night before so you aren't trapped in the kitchen all morning while your guests are relaxing and drinking all of your coffee. 

Orange-Pecan French Toast Casserole 

1 Cup packed brown sugar 1/s Cup butter, melted 2Tbsp light corn syrup 1/3 Cup butter, melted 2Tbsps light corn syrup  Cooking spray 1/3 Cup chopped pecans 1Tsp grated orange rind

1 Cup Fresh orange juice 1/2 Cup 2% milk 3 Tbsp granulated sugar 1 Tsp ground cinnamon 2 tsp vanilla extract 3 Large egg whites 2 Large eggs 12 (1" thick) slices of french bread

Directions: Combine brown sugar, melted butter, and corn syrup; pour into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish coated with cooking spray. Sprinkle the chopped pecans evenly over the gooey sugar mixture.

Combine the rest of the ingredients (except the french bread) in a large mixing bowl. Stir with a whisk until well blended. Set aside. Arrange bread slices over the pecans in baking dish. Pour egg mixture over bread. Cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate at least 1 hour, I let it soak overnight.

Preheat over to 350 degrees.

Remove casserole from fridge and let stand at room temperature for about 20 minutes. Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes or until lightly browned. Let stand 5 minutes.

To serve, cut casserole into individual servings and serve each slice BOTTOM SIDE UP so the yummy, gooey pecan caramel mixture is on the top. Makes about 12 servings if you only want one slice. I personally need at least two!--Tony K.