Apricot Cream Cheese Filled French Toast

• 8 slices Italian bread
• 1 cup DDPK dried apricot, finely chopped
• ½ cup cream cheese, room temperature
• 4 large eggs
• ½ cup milk
• ¼ teaspoon DDPK ground cinnamon
• 2 Tablespoons unsalted butter
• Pure maple syrup for serving

1. Using a paring knife, cut a horizontal slit in each bread slice to form a pocket.

2. Stir together apricot and cream cheese.

3. Spoon 2 tablespoons mixture into each pocket.

4. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and cinnamon until combined.

1. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-low heat.

2. Working in batches of two, lay bread slices in egg mixture, letting them soak 5 seconds on each side.

3. Lift slices, letting excess drip back into bowl, and place in skillet

4. Cook until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes per side.

5. Repeat, adding remaining tablespoon butter to skillet.

6. Serve immediately with syrup, bacon, and fruit salad, as desired.