Oven French Toast

This is a recipe which can be prepared the night before. The cider syrup is a nice change from maple.

• Ready In: 1 hr 35 mins
• Serves: 6-8

Ingredients

• 1  lb  loaf  French bread, cut into 1/2 " cubes
• 8  ounces cream cheese, cubed
• 2⁄3 cup golden raisin
• 8  eggs
• 2 1⁄2 cups milk
• 6  tablespoons butter, melted
• 2  cups apple cider or 2  cups  apple juice
• 1  cup sugar
• 2  tablespoons lemon juice
• 2  tablespoons  plus 2 tsp. cornstarch
• 1  teaspoon cinnamon
• 2  tablespoons butter

Directions

1. Prepare syrup: microwave 2 cups apple cider or juice, 1 cup sugar, 2 Tbs. lemon juice, 2 Tbs. plus 2 teaspoons cornstarch and 1 teaspoons cinnamon for 3 minutes; stir. Microwave an additional 4 minutes or until thick and bubbly. Stir in 2 Tbs. butter until melted.
2. Place half the bread cubes in a prepared 13 X 9" casserole. Arrange cream cheese and raisins over bread cubes. Top with remaining bread cubes.
3. In large bowl, beat eggs with milk, melted 6 Tbs. butter and 1/4 cup cider syrup until combined. Pour egg mixture over layers. Using a spatula, lightly press down to moisten.
4. Refrigerate overnight.
5. Bake uncovered in 325 oven for 35 to 40 minutes or until center is set and edges are golden.
6. Let stand 10 minutes. Drizzle 1 cup cider syrup over top and serve with any remaining syrup.