Baked French Toast

Preparation: 10 min.
Soaking time: Overnight
Baking time: 13-20 min. at 475 degrees (F.)
Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients:

• 14-16 slices (1-inch thick) French bread
• 6 eggs
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon each cinnamon, baking powder, vanilla and salt
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 2 tablespoon butter or margarine, melted

Preparation:

1. In a mixing bowl, lightly beat eggs. Add flour, sugar, cinnamon, baking powder, vanilla and salt. Mix until smooth.
2. Gradually beat in half-and-half.
3. Pour into a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or a 2-inch "half pan", if you're using restaurant gear. A 9x13 baking dish will probably hold more slices.
4. Place bread into egg mixture. Turn slices over. Arrange in a baking pan.
5. Cover. Refrigerate overnight.
6. About 30 minutes before baking, turn slices to soak other sides.
7. In a second 9 x 13-inch baking pan, pour half the butter. Arrange bread in pan. Drizzle with remaining butter.
8. Bake at 475 degrees (F) for 8 minutes. Turn slices. Bake 5 minutes longer or until golden brown. Serve.

Serving Suggestions:

We serve it with real maple syrup, but powdered sugar would also be good. Jam thinned with a little water or brandy is also tasty.