Strawberry Mascarpone French Toast

Diane Phillips

• Ready In: 1 hr 10 mins
• Serves: 8

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄4 cups sugar
• 8  large eggs
• 2  cups heavy cream
• 2  teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1  lb  loaf  bread, tough crusts removed, torn into small pieces
• 2  cups mascarpone cheese, softened
• 2  cups  fresh sliced strawberries
• 3  tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Directions

1. Coat the inside of a 13 x 9 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a big bowl, whisk 1 cup sugar, eggs, heavy cream, and cinnamon.
3. Add in bread and stir to blend.
4. Pour half of the bread mixture into the baking dish.
5. In a small bowl, stir the mascarpone, the remaining ¼ cup sugar, and the berries.
6. Dot the top of the French toast with the cheese mixture, spreading it to the edges as best you can (dip an offset spatula into warm water to help spread).
7. Top with the remaining bread mixture and drizzle with melted butter.
8. Preheat oven to 350°; bake for 35-40 minutes or until the top is golden brown; let rest for 10 minutes, then serve warm.
9. OAMC: after step 7, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to1 month.
10. Defrost casserole overnight in the refrigerator, if necessary.
11. Let casserole come to room temperature for about 30 minutes; preheat oven as above.
12. Bake as directed.