Grease the bottom of a 9x13 casserole dish.
Layer the bread into the dish.
In a separate bowl, mix together the rest of the ingredients (melted butter, eggs, half and half, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, maple syrup).
Sprinkle the nuts over (if using).
When blended together, drizzle over the bread.
Cover with plastic wrap or foil and let sit in fridge overnight.
Next morning, preheat over to 350 degrees.
When ready, bake for 40 minutes covered and 20 minutes uncovered
Drizzle with melted butter and maple syrup to taste.