Bourbon Maple Bacon Stuffed French Toast

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, beat cream cheese with powdered sugar until smooth. Spread evenly over 4 slices of bread.
2. Top with bacon slices and cover with the remaining bread to form sandwiches.
3. In another bowl, whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth.
4. Dip each sandwich into the egg mixture, coating both sides well.
5. Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook each sandwich for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
6. In a small saucepan, warm maple syrup with bourbon (if using).
7. Drizzle syrup generously over the stuffed French toast and serve warm.

Variations:

• Use flavored cream cheese (like honey or cinnamon) for a fun twist.
• Swap bacon for candied pecans or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
• Add a layer of fresh fruit (like sliced strawberries or bananas) inside the filling for extra sweetness.

Tips:

• If making for a crowd, keep the cooked French toast warm in the oven at 200°F until ready to serve.
• For an even richer flavor, soak the sandwiches in the egg mixture for a few minutes before cooking.
• Use thick-cut, sturdy bread to hold the filling together without becoming soggy.