Jam-Filled French Toast

• 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)

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.

italian bread, apricot jam, cream cheese, eggs, milk, ground cinnamon, unsalted butter, maple syrup, bacon, recipe below

Taken from www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/jam-filled-french-toast-387866 (may not work)