Delightful Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata Recipe

The aroma of maple syrup wafting through the air, mingling with the crunch of pecans, creates a cozy atmosphere that feels like a warm hug. Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata is not just a dish; it’s an experience that wraps you in delightful flavors and festive cheer.

Imagine gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing laughter while indulging in this heavenly brunch treat. Each bite offers a perfect blend of sweet and nutty goodness, making it the highlight of any holiday gathering.

I remember the first time I made this strata; my family’s eyes lit up like Christmas lights when they tasted it.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Stale Bread: Use crusty bread like sourdough or French baguette for great texture and flavor.

• Eggs: Fresh eggs are essential; they provide structure and richness to the strata.

• Milk: Whole milk gives a creamy consistency; you can substitute with almond milk if desired.

• Maple Syrup: Pure maple syrup is key for that authentic sweetness; avoid imitation syrup at all costs.

• Pecans: Toasted pecans add crunch and depth; chop them roughly for even distribution throughout the dish.

• Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon brings warmth and spice; adjust to taste for a little extra kick.

• Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla enhances sweetness and rounds out flavors beautifully.

• Salt: Just a pinch balances everything out; don’t skip this step!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata

Prepare the Bread Base: Cut stale bread into cubes, about one inch each. Place them in a large mixing bowl and let them soak up all the goodness coming their way.

Create the Custard Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.

Add Pecans: Gently fold in the toasted pecans to ensure they’re evenly distributed throughout the custard mix. Their delightful crunch will be a lovely surprise in each bite.

Combine Everything: Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes in the mixing bowl. Stir gently until all pieces are thoroughly coated but avoid squishing them too much.

Let It Rest: Cover the mixing bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if you want maximum flavor infusion. Patience will reward you!

Bake It Up: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer everything into a greased baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top and set in the center. Enjoy that heavenly aroma filling your kitchen!

This Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata is not just food; it’s an invitation to gather around with loved ones, creating moments that linger long after dessert has been served. So roll up those sleeves, embrace your inner chef, and let’s get cooking!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Begin by whisking the eggs and milk together before layering bread, cheese, and pecans in a baking dish. Letting the strata rest overnight enhances flavors and ensures even cooking.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out the pecans for walnuts or add cranberries for a fruity twist. You can also experiment with different cheeses like goat cheese or sharp cheddar to suit your taste.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat slices in the oven at 350°F until heated through for best results.

It was during our first holiday brunch that I realized how much joy this Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata could bring. My family couldn’t stop raving about it!

FAQ

Can I prepare Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata in advance?

Absolutely! Assemble it a night before and refrigerate overnight for better flavor.

What can I substitute for pecans?

You can use walnuts or almonds as delicious alternatives to pecans.

How long does the strata need to bake?

Bake your strata at 350°F for about 45-55 minutes, until golden brown on top.

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Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata

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Maple Pecan Christmas Brunch Strata is a festive delight that combines the warm flavors of maple syrup and crunchy pecans in a comforting, baked dish. Perfect for holiday gatherings, this easy-to-make strata offers a deliciously sweet and nutty experience that will impress your family and friends. Gather around the table to enjoy each flavorful bite, creating cherished moments that linger long after the meal is over.

• Author: Jennifer
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves 8
• Category: Brunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 6 cups stale bread (cubed)
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup pure maple syrup
• 1 cup toasted pecans (chopped)
• 2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cubed stale bread and set aside.
3. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
4. Fold in the toasted pecans gently.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes and stir until coated.
6. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
7. Transfer to a greased baking dish and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown on top.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 15g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 16g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 210mg

Keywords: - For enhanced flavor, let the strata rest overnight before baking. - Substitute pecans with walnuts or almonds for a different flavor profile. - Serve with fresh fruit or whipped cream for added sweetness.