Baked Cinnamon French Toast

1 loaf French bread, crust included, cut into 1-in. pieces

8 eggs

2 c. milk

1 1/2 c. half-and-half

2 tsp. vanilla

1/3 tsp. cinnamon

2 Tbs. sugar

Topping:

1 1/3 c. brown sugar

1 Tbs. cinnamon

3/4 c. butter, softened

3 Tbs. light corn syrup

Chopped pecans or walnuts, optional

Spray a 9x13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. In a large bowl, beat together eggs, milk, half-and-half, vanilla, and sugar. Mix gently, then stir in bread pieces. Pour into baking dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Mix topping ingredients and sprinkle over bread mixture. Bake, uncovered, for 35 to 40 minutes.

To serve, drizzle with syrup and top with nuts, if desired.