Follow these simple steps to bring this comforting dish to life:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
3. Add the cubed French bread to the bowl, and gently stir to ensure each piece is coated with the egg mixture. Let it soak for about 10 minutes for maximum flavor infusion.
4. Transfer the soaked bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Sprinkle the top with brown sugar and chopped pecans, if using. Drizzle the melted butter over the top for a golden finish.
6. Bake in the preheated oven for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
7. Remove from oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with additional maple syrup if desired.

A tip from my kitchen to yours: if you want an even deeper flavor, prepare the dish the night before, cover it, and let it sit in the fridge overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.