PAULA DEAN'S BAKED FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

Steps:

• Slice French bread into 20 slices, 1-inch each. Arrange slices in a generously buttered 9 by 13-inch flat baking dish in 2 rows, overlapping the slices.
• In a large bowl, combine the eggs, half-and-half, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt and beat with a rotary beater or whisk until blended but not too bubbly. Pour mixture over the bread slices, making sure all are covered evenly with the milk-egg mixture. Spoon some of the mixture in between the slices.
• Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
• The next day, preheat oven to 350 degrees F.
• Combine all ingredients for the Praline Topping in a medium bowl and blend well. Spread Praline Topping evenly over the bread and bake for 40 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden.
• Serve with maple syrup.