Pear-Mascarpone French Toast

 

                    This dish is great for Sunday breakfast or brunch with the family and is elegant enough for company.

8 servings

• 2 medium pears, peeled and finely chopped
• 4 tablespoons butter, divided
• 8 ounces package Mascarpone cheese
• 2 tablespoons sugar
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh gingerroot
• ¼ teaspoon + pinch ground cinnamon, divided
• 8 slices French bread "1 inch thick"
• 4 eggs
• ¾ cup milk
• ¼ teaspoon vanilla extract
• Maple syrup, optional

1. In a small saucepan, cook pears in 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat for 2-3 minutes or just until tender.
2. Remove from the heat, cool completely.
3. In a small bowl, beat cheese, stir in sugar, ginger, pinch of cinnamon and pears.
4. Cut a pocket in the side of each slice of bread and carefully fill each pocket with about ¼ cup of pear mixture.
5. In a shallow bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla and remaining cinnamon.
6. Carefully dip both sides of bread in egg mixture, be carefull not to squeeze out filling.
7. In a large skillet, melt remaining butter over medium heat.
8. Cook stuffed bread on both sides until golden brown.
9. Serve with syrup if desired.

BON APPÉÉÉÉÉÉÉTIT