French Toast Strada

French Toast Strada with apple cider syrup is a favorite around here.

French Toast Strada

1 lb. bread, cubed into 1" pieces*
8 eggs
8 oz. package cream cheese, cubed into 1/2" pieces
6 Tbsp. melted butter
2 1/2 c. light cream**
1/4 c. maple syrup
1 tsp. vanilla

Place half the bread cubes in greased 9x13 baking dish. Top with cream cheese cubes and then with the remaining bread cubes. Combine eggs, cream, butter, vanilla and syrup. Mix well and pour over bread and cheese cubes. Use a spatula to slightly press layers down to moisten. Cover and refrigerate overnight, or up to 24 hours. Bake uncovered at 400 degrees for about 40 minutes, or until light golden brown. Let stand for 10 minutes before cutting. Serve warm with apple cider syrup.
*Day old bread from the bakery works well(and can be found for half the price).
**I usually use 1 cup(equal to one small container) heavy whipping cream and 1 1/2 cups milk.

Apple Cider Syrup

1/2 c. sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1 T. lemon juice
4 tsp. cornstarch
1 c. apple juice
2 T. butter

Combine sugar, cornstarch and cinnamon in small saucepan. Stir in apple and lemon juice. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Cook for two more minutes. Remove from heat and add butter.

{recipe from Cafe Cafe 117 Meeting Street Charleston}