French Toast Casserole with Caramelized Pears | Chopped

Ingredients

• 1 loaf day-old brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 8 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2/3 cup granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 firm ripe pears, peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/2-inch wedges
• 2/3 cup packed light brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup, plus more for serving