Bourbon Maple French Toast (Print Version)

Brioche filled with bacon cream cheese, caramelized and topped with rich bourbon maple glaze.

# Ingredients:

→ Main Components

01 - 8 thick slices brioche bread or challah bread
02 - 6 strips thick-cut bacon
03 - 4 large eggs
04 - 1/2 cup whole milk
05 - 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
06 - 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
07 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Filling & Glaze

08 - 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
09 - 1 cup pure maple syrup
10 - 2 tablespoons bourbon
11 - 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
12 - Pinch of salt

# Steps:

01 - Arrange bacon strips on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and bake at 400°F until crisp, about 15 minutes. Transfer to paper towels to drain, then chop into small pieces.
02 - In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined.
03 - In a separate small bowl, mix softened cream cheese with chopped bacon until evenly blended.
04 - Using a sharp knife, cut a pocket into each slice of brioche or challah. Fill each pocket generously with bacon-cream cheese mixture.
05 - Dip both sides of each stuffed slice into the egg mixture, ensuring thorough coverage.
06 - Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the soaked bread slices for 3 to 4 minutes on each side, turning once, until evenly golden brown.
07 - Combine maple syrup, bourbon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt in a small saucepan. Simmer over low heat for 2 minutes until warm and slightly thickened.
08 - Place French toast on plates and drizzle generously with the warm maple bourbon glaze. Serve immediately.

# Notes:

01 - For optimal richness, use day-old brioche or challah to ensure the bread absorbs the custard without falling apart.