8 eggs
1 1/2 c. milk
1/2 c. plus 1 tbsp. brown sugar
2 tsp. vanilla
8 slices French or Italian bread, cut 3/4 inch thick
1/4 c. butter
1/4 c. maple syrup
1/2 c. chopped pecans

Thoroughly blend eggs, milk, 1 tablespoon brown sugar and vanilla. Pour half of egg mixture into 9x13 inch baking dish. Place bread slices in mixture. Pour remaining egg mixture over bread. Cover and refrigerate several hours or overnight.

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Remove bread from baking dish and set aside.

Place 1/4 cup butter in 9x13 inch baking dish and put in oven until butter melts. Stir in 1/2 cup brown sugar and syrup. Sprinkle with pecans. Carefully place reserved bread slices on nuts. Pour any remaining egg mixture over bread. Bake uncovered until puffed and lightly brown, 30-35 minutes. Invert slices to serve.