Baked French Toast

1 tsp. vanilla extract (almond is also good with this)

powdered sugar for topping, if desired

1 loaf, unsliced French bread 

1 C. light brown sugar

1 stick butter, melted

1 1/2 C. whole milk

5 large eggs

cinnamon

Combine the melted butter with the brown sugar and spread in the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Slice the bread, about 1" thick and place over the butter mixture. Whisk together the eggs, milk and vanilla. Spoon half of the mixture over the bread and spread around, sprinkle with a little cinnamon. Top this with additional sliced bread and then the remaining egg mixture and then sprinkle with a little more cinnamon. Cover and place in the fridge overnight or at least 6 hours. Remove from the fridge about 30 minutes before baking to come to room temp. Bake in a 350 degree oven for 45 minutes, remove and check to make sure the center is set. Depending on your altitude, it may need a minute or two more. Once done, remove and dust with powdered sugar. Serve with warm syrup.

recipe from Jane't page