Double-Cinnamon French Toast

prepared by and photo by Emily S. Downs

Here’s a delicious way to start your weekend and a great idea for sleep-overs for your kids.

Size: 2 to 4 servings

Ingredients:
1 cup pure maple syrup
3 tbsp unsalted butter
2 tsp ground cinnamon
3 large eggs
1 cup whipping cream or half and half
2 tsp vanilla extract
4 3/4-to-1" thick cinnamon bread or egg bread slices

Directions:

Bring syrup, 1 tbsp butter and tsp cinnamon to boil in heavy medium saucepan. Boil 2 minutes.

Whisk eggs, cream, vanilla, 3 tbsp maple syrup mixture and remaining 1 tsp cinnamon in bowl. Place bread slices in large baking dish. Pour egg mixture over; turn to coat. Pierce bread in several places with fork. Let stand 5 minutes.

Melt 1 tbsp butter in heavy large skillet over medium-high heat. Add bread and cook until brown, about 3 minutes. Add 1 tbsp butter to skillet. Turn over bread and cook until brown, about 3 minutes. Transfer to plates. Serve with remaining syrup.

Comfort Food: Warm Up with Shepherd’s Pie