Slice the French bread into twenty 1-inch slices. Arrange slices in a generously buttered 9x13-inch flat baking dish in 2 rows, overlapping the slices. In a large bowl, combine eggs, half & half, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt; whisk until blended. Pour the mixture over the bread slices, making sure that all are covered evenly with the milk-egg mixture. Spoon some of the mixture in between the slices. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight.
PREPARE THE MORNING OF:
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Combine the praline ingredients in a medium bowl and blend well. Spread the praline topping evenly over the bread and bake for 40 minutes, until puffed and lightly golden. Serve with maple syrup.