Pear-Stuffed French Toast

(20)
Servings:
8

For a richer version of this dish, use heavy cream, as more fat content translates into better flavor.From the book "Mad Hungry," by Lucinda Scala Quinn (Artisan Books).

Ingredients

  • 7 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, plus more for serving

  • 2 pears, peeled, cored, and finely chopped

  • 12 large eggs

  • 2 cups heavy cream, half-and-half, or milk

  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

  • 1 loaf challah or other soft, thick bread, cut into 1-inch slices

  • Pure maple syrup, warmed, for serving

Directions

  1. Mash together 5 tablespoons of the butter with the chopped pears and chill.

  2. In a large flat dish, whisk together the eggs, cream, and vanilla.

  3. In the side of each bread slice, make a deep slice into the center to form a pocket. Stuff a spoonful of pear butter into each piece. Place the stuffed bread into the egg mixture and let soak for a few minutes. Turn each piece and continue soaking until the bread has absorbed enough of the egg mixture to be completely moistened but not falling apart.

  4. Heat a large skillet and swirl in 1 tablespoon of the butter. Working in batches, cook the soaked bread until golden brown and cooked through, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the skillet as needed. Serve warm with more butter and the maple syrup.

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