1 1/2 lb pears, such as Anjou or Barlett, firm but ripe, about 3, cored and very thinly sliced
3 eggs
3 egg yolks
1 1/2 cup whole milk
1 1/4 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp fine salt
1 tbsp sanding sugar
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Butter a shallow 2-quart baking dish and sprinkle bottom evenly with chocolate. Arrange brioche in dish, alternating each slice with 3 or 4 pear slices.
In a large bowl, gently whisk together eggs and egg yolks, milk, cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt. Pour mixture evenly over bread and pears and let sit 5 minutes. Sprinkle with sanding sugar.
Bake until brioche is puffed and custard is just set, 50 to 60 minutes. Let cool slightly. Serve warm or at room temperature.