Kicked up Monte Cristos!

These sandwiches are To-Die-For!!!! Sweetness from raspberry preserves and powdered sugar, saltiness from gouda, ham and turkey, and a little kick from cayenne! Use any good, thick-sliced bread. Challah or Brioche is great! But plain sliced bread works just fine! This is a must try for any time of day!!! (Midnight is my favorite!) Created for RSC #11.

• Ready In: 30 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 8  ounces gouda cheese (shredded or sliced)
• 8  slices  bread (thick sliced, white or wheat)
• 4  slices  deli turkey
• 4  slices deli ham
• 2  eggs
• 1⁄2 cup milk
• 1  tablespoon flour
•  oil (for frying)
• 1⁄2 cup  raspberry preserves (seedless)
• 1⁄4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (to taste)
•  powdered sugar

Directions

1. Place 4 pieces of bread on work surface.
2. Evenly divide gouda, ham and turkey between the bread slices.
3. Top with remaining 4 slices of bread, making 4 sandwiches.
4. You can cut the sandwiches in half, or leave them whole. Secure with toothpicks, if necessary.
5. In a shallow dish combine eggs, milk and flour. Beat well.
6. Heat oil to 375º in large skillet to about 1/2 inch depth.
7. Carefully dip each sandwich into egg batter, coating both sides.
8. Fry sandwiches, a few at a time, about 1 minute each side, until golden brown.
9. Drain on paper towels.
10. Meanwhile, gently heat raspberry preserves with cayenne in microwave, or small pan.
11. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with warmed preserves for dipping.