Grand Marnier French Toast

I found this recipe in Epicurious Magazine. Be sure to serve with orange slices and a side of bacon or fried ham to complete your meal. This recipe can be prepared the night before to make your morning preparation a little easier.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 4  large eggs
• 3⁄4 cup half-and-half
• 1⁄4 cup Grand Marnier (or other orange-flavored liqueur) or 1⁄4 cup  frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed (or other orange-flavored liqueur)
• 2  tablespoons sugar
• 1  tablespoon  orange peel, grated
• 1⁄2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 8  French bread, sliced (3/4-inch-thick)
• 2  tablespoons butter

• Condiments

• 2  tablespoons butter
•  powdered sugar
•  warm maple syrup

Directions

1. Whisk first 6 ingredients to blend in medium bowl.
2. Dip each bread slice into egg mixture and arrange in 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish.
3. Pour remaining egg mixture evenly over bread.
4. Let stand until egg mixture is absorbed, at least 20 minutes.
5. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.).
6. Place baking sheet in oven and preheat to 350°F.
7. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in heavy large skillet over medium heat.
8. Add 4 bread slices to skillet and sauté until cooked through and brown, about 3 minutes per side.
9. Place on baking sheet in oven to keep warm. Repeat cooking with remaining 2 tablespoons butter and 4 bread slices.
10. Transfer French toast to 4 plates.
11. Sift powdered sugar over.
12. Serve with maple syrup.