Croissant French Toast

8 medium croissants

1 (18-oz.) jar jam or marmalade

6 T. orange juice

5 eggs, beaten

1  C. whipping cream or half and half

1 t. almond extract

Garnish: confectioners' sugar and fresh fruit

The day before baking, grease a 13 x 9-by-2-inch baking pan. Split croissants in half. Place bottom halves in pan.

Combine jam and orange juice and blend well. Pour 2/3 of jam mixture over croissants. Replace tops of croissants.

Blend together eggs, cream, and almond extract. Pour over croissants. Spoon remaining 1/3 jam mixture over croissants.

Cover and store in the refrigerator for at least 8 hours before baking. When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350° F.

Bake, uncovered, in center of oven for 40-45 minutes. Let stand 5 minutes at room temperature before serving. Garnish with a dusting of confectioners' sugar and fresh fruit.

Note: You can use any flavor of jam or marmalade you wish.

Makes 8 servings.