French Toast Strata #850 8/07

Categories:
brunch, casserole, eggs, New 2007, strata

1 lb sausage; cooked & drained
4 cups french bread; cubed
1/3 cup raisins
1 3 oz pkg cream cheese SEE Directions; cut in 1/4 inch cubes
3 large eggs
1 1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon Cinnamon
maple syrup for topping; optional
shredded cheddar cheese

Spray an 8 X 8 baking dish with Pam. Place bread cubes and sausage in a even layer in baking dish; sprinke raisins and cream cheese over bread. Beat eggs in electric mixer until blended. Add milk, maple syrup, and vanilla. Pour egg mixture evenly over the bread mixture. Cover; refrigerate at least 4 hours or overnight. Preheat oven to 350°F. Combine sugar and cinnamon in a small bowl; sprinnkle evenly over the strata. Bake uncovered for 45 minutes or until puffed and golden brown. Cut into squares and serve with additional syrup in desired. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar. 1/09 Use a little extra cream cheese as this does not spread well, or try whipped cream cheese instead.

Yield: 4 servings