Slice french bread into slices about 1/2 inch thick.
Place in a lightly greased 9 x 13 pan...can overlap...just want to evenly cover the inside of the pan.
In a large bowl, combine all other ingredients..besides the topping stuff!!
Pour over the bread slowly, may even need to spoon the "custard" over it to get all of the bread moist.
Allow to soak for at least one hour...better yet, overnight!!
FOR THE TOPPING
Combine softened butter, brown sugar and corn syrup in a large bowl. Mix together,
Add shredded coconut and chopped pecans and stir to evenly combine.
Spread evenly over the soaked french toast.
Bake in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 50 minutes. If the top is browning too fast for you, cover it with foil for the rest of the time.
Remove, let sit for about 10 minutes, and serve with maple syrup!
Notes
Got nut allergies in your house? Simply omit the pecans!! Just as good without them!
Slightly stale french bread is PERFECT for this..great way to avoid wasting food!