Pear Sundae French Toast

Taste of Home 2006- Coming upon this creation in a potluck line, I left with a full plate and the recipe. Now my family "oohs" and "aahs" as soon as I bring out this fruit-topped favorite. It's great for brunch or as a fanciful finish to a meal. -Carol Schumacher, Menoken, North Dakota

• Ready In: 15 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1⁄4 cup  packed brown sugar
• 6  tablespoons butter or 6  tablespoons margarine, divided
• 1 1⁄4 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
• 3  medium  ripe pears, peeled and sliced (about 2-1/2 cups)
• 3  eggs, lightly beaten
• 3⁄4 cup milk
• 1  teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1⁄4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3  tablespoons  packed brown sugar
• 6  slices  French bread (1 inch thick)
•  ice cream

Directions

1. In a skillet, combine 1/4 cup brown sugar, 2 tablespoons butter and 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon; cook and stir until sugar dissolved. Add pears; cook until tender.
2. In a bowl, combine the eggs, milk, vanilla, nutmeg, and remaining brown sugar and cinnamon. Dip bread in egg mixture to coat each side. Melt remaining butter in a skillet. Fry bread over medium heat for 2 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Top with ice cream and pear mixture.