Strawberry French Toast

2 packages cream cheese (3 oz each) softened

3/4 cup fresh strawberries, sliced

1/3 cup confectioners' sugar

1 loaf French bread (1 pound), cut in 1" slices

10 eggs

2/3 cup half-and-half or whipping cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Strawberry Sauce

4 cups fresh strawberries, sliced

1/2 cup sugar

2 tablespoons water

maple syrup (optional)

Plan ahead...start the night before.

In a mixing bowl, beat cream cheese, strawberries and confectioners' sugar until combined. Spread about 2 tablespoons on one side of half the bread slices; top with remaining bread.

Place sandwiches in an ungreased 13" x 9" x 2" baking dish.

In a bowl, beat the eggs, cream and vanilla. Pour over the bread. Turn each sandwich. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight.

With a slotted spatula, transfer sandwiches to a greased 15" x 10" x 1" baking pan. Discard any remaining egg mixture.

Bake at 375º for 15 minutes; turn and bake 10 minutes longer or until golden brown.

Meanwhile, for the sauce, combine the strawberries, sugar and water in a saucepan. Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Serve French toast with strawberry sauce and maple syrup if desired.