Strawberry Cheesecake French Toast

Make this look and taste extra-fancy by topping it with additional confectioners' sugar and maple syrup and/or fresh fruit.

• Ready In: 20 mins
• Serves: 4

Ingredients

• 1 (3 ounce) package cream cheese, softened
• 2  tablespoons confectioners' sugar
• 2  tablespoons  strawberry preserves
• 8  slices  country  white bread
• 2  eggs
• 1⁄2 cup half-and-half
• 2  tablespoons granulated sugar
• 4  tablespoons butter

Directions

1. In a small bowl, combine the cream cheese and confectioners' sugar; mix well then stir in the preserves.
2. Spread equally over 4 bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices, forming sandwiches.
3. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs, half-and-half, and granulated sugar until well combined.
4. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons butter over medium heat.
5. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, completely coating both sides. Cook 2 sandwiches at a time for 1 to 2 minutes per side, or until golden.
6. Melt the remaining 2 tablespoons butter in the skillet and cook the remaining 2 sandwiches.
7. Slice each in half diagonally and serve.