Cinnamon Vanilla French Toast

Blissful Breakfasts!

•   1 cup half-and-half (substitute skim milk for healthier version)
•   3 large eggs
•   ½ teaspoon vanilla
•   ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
•   2 tablespoons honey, warmed in microwave for 20 seconds
•   1/4 teaspoon salt
•   8 (1/2-inch) slices day-old or stale country loaf, brioche or challah bread
•   4 tablespoons butter

In medium size mixing bowl, whisk together the half-and-half, eggs, honey, and salt. You may do this the night before. When ready to cook, pour custard mixture into a pie pan and set aside.

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Dip bread into mixture, allow to soak for 30 seconds on each side, and then remove to a cooling rack that is sitting in a sheet pan, and allow to sit for 1 to 2 minutes.

Over medium-low heat, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a 10-inch nonstick saute pan. Place 2 slices of bread at a time into the pan and cook until golden brown, approximately 2 to 3 minutes per side. Remove from pan and place on rack in oven for 5 minutes. Repeat with all 8 slices. Serve immediately with maple syrup, whipped cream or fruit.