Monte Cristo Stuffed French Toast with Strawberry Syrup

slices French bread, 1/2 inch thick

1/4

lb shaved or very thinly sliced cooked ham

slices (3/4 oz each) Gruyère or Swiss cheese, cut in half

eggs

1/2

cup milk

tablespoons granulated sugar

tablespoon butter or margarine

Powdered sugar, if desired

3/4

cup strawberry syrup

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1

Top 6 slices of the bread evenly with ham and cheese, folding to fit. Top with remaining bread slices.
2

In small bowl, beat eggs, milk and granulated sugar with fork or wire whisk until well mixed; pour into shallow bowl.
3

In 12-inch nonstick skillet, heat butter over medium-low heat. Dip each side of each sandwich in egg mixture, allowing time for bread to soak up mixture. Add sandwiches to skillet. Cover; cook 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Serve with syrup.

Croque monsieur, or Monte Cristo sandwiches, are making a comeback! Traditionally a French-style grilled ham and cheese sandwich that has been dipped into a beaten egg mixture and fried in butter, this version becomes a rich and sensational French toast! Mix equal amounts of strawberry syrup and sour cream for a different topping flavor.