Pecan French Toast *

2/3 c Orange juice

1/3 c Milk

1/4 c Sugar

1/4 ts Nutmeg

1/4 ts Vanilla

1/2 Italian bread; cut in 1"

- thick slices 1/3 c Butter; melted, divided

1/2 c Pecan pieces

2 tb Grated orange peel

Using a whisk, beat eggs, orange juice, milk, sugar, nutmeg and vanilla. Place bread with edges touching, in a layer, in a large baking dish. Pour milk mixture over bread, cover and refrigerate overnight. Turn once. Preheat oven to 400~. Pour melted butter on a jelly roll pan, or large cookie sheet with sides. Arrange soaked slices in a single layer on pan. Sprinkle with orange peel and pecans. Bake 20 minutes. Check slices during last 10 minutes. Recipe can easily be doubled. -----