Orange Pecan Baked French Toast - The BakerMama

Ingredients

• 12 thin orange slices, optional
• 4 large eggs
• 1 tablespoon orange zest
• 1 cup fresh orange juice
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 6 slices challah or brioche bread, each 1.5 inches thick
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar, divided
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/4 cup dark brown sugar
• 1/2 cup maple syrup, divided