Jam-Filled French Toast

Ingredients

• 8 slices (1 inch thick) Italian bread
• 3 tablespoons apricot jam
• 2 ounces cream cheese
• room temperature
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Pure maple syrup
• for serving (optional)
• Cooked bacon
• for serving (optional)
• Tropical Fruit Salad
• for serving (optional; recipe below)

Instructions

1. Using a paring knife, cut a horizontal slit in each bread slice to form a pocket.
2. Stir together jam and cream cheese.
3. Spoon 1 tablespoon mixture into each pocket.
4. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cinnamon until combined.
5. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-low heat.
6. Working in batches of two, lay bread slices in egg mixture, letting them soak 5 seconds on each side.
7. Lift slices, letting excess drip back into bowl, and place in skillet; cook until golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes per side.
8. Repeat, adding remaining tablespoon butter to skillet.
9. Serve immediately with syrup, bacon, and fruit salad, as desired.