Strawberry & Cream French Toast Casserole

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Strawberry & Cream French Toast Casserole

Prep: 15 minutes plus standing
Bake: 1 hour • Serves: 8

1/2 (20-ounce) loaf brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
1 package (8 ounces) Neufchâtel cheese, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 cups coarsely chopped strawberries
8 Eggland’s Best cage free large eggs
1-1/2 cups half and half
1/4 cup pure maple syrup plus additional for serving (optional)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1/4 cup sliced almonds
2 tablespoons light brown sugar

1. In 9-inch square baking dish, spread half the bread; top with cheese, 1 cup strawberries and remaining half of the bread.

2. In large bowl, whisk eggs; whisk in half and half, syrup and vanilla extract. Pour egg mixture over bread mixture; press down gently with back of spoon to submerge bread.

3. Preheat oven to 350°; let French toast stand at room temperature 15 minutes. Sprinkle French toast with remaining 1 cup strawberries, almonds and sugar; bake 1 hour or until top is golden brown. Makes about 8 cups.

4. Cut French toast into 8 pieces; serve with additional maple syrup, if desired.

Approximate nutritional values per serving (1 piece):
377 Calories, 19g Fat (8g Saturated), 223mg Cholesterol, 363mg Sodium,
37g Carbohydrates, 2g Fiber, 17g Sugars, 6g Added Sugars, 14g Protein

Dietitian’s Dish Tip(s):
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and packed with antioxidants that support heart health and reduce inflammation. To give this dish more antioxidant power, sprinkle flax or chia seeds into the batter, too.