Apple Raisin Strata

The flavors of apples and raisins blend beautifully to create an elegant yet simple and fast breakfast. Serve this with a drizzle of maple syrup or caramel and a dollop of sweetened whipped cream as a lovely way to start the day.
Portions:12
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Ingredients

  • 1 1-pound loaf cinnamon raisin bread cubed
  • 1 8-ounce package cream cheese diced
  • 1 ½ cups peeled and diced apples
  • 1 ½ cups raisins
  • 8 eggs
  • 2 ½ cups half and half or cream
  • 6 tablespoons butter melted
  • ⅓ cup maple syrup

CARAMEL SAUCE

  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup cream
  • ¼ cup butter
  • ⅛ teaspoon salt
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Instructions

  • Coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray.
  • Arrange half of the cubed raisin bread in the bottom of the dish.
  • Sprinkle the cream cheese evenly over the bread and top with apples; sprinkle raisins evenly over all.
  • Top with remaining bread cubes
  • .In a large bowl, beat the eggs with the half-and-half, butter, and maple syrup.
  • Pour this over the bread mixture.
  • Cover with plastic wrap and press down so that all bread pieces are soaked.
  • Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
  • Preheat oven to 325°F. Bake for 45 minutes.
  • Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

CARAMEL SAUCE

  • Mix the brown sugar, cream, butter, and salt in a saucepan over medium-low heat.
  • Whisk while cooking for 5 minutes or until the sauce gets thick.
  • Add vanilla and cook for 1 minute.
  • Remove from heat, cool slightly, and pour into a jar.

Notes / Tips / Wine Advice:

Freeze the cream cheese until just barely solid for easier dicing.
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Course Breakfast / Fruit