FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE

FRENCH TOAST CASSEROLE 1 loaf (1 pound) French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes 8 large eggs, lightly beaten 3 cups 2% milk 4 teaspoons sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 3/4 teaspoon salt TOPPING: 2 tablespoons butter 3 tablespoons sugar 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Maple syrup, optional Place bread cubes in a greased 13x9-in. baking dish. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla and salt. Pour over bread. Cover and refrigerate for 8 hours or overnight. Remove from refrigerator 30 minutes before baking. Preheat oven to 350°. Dot with butter. Combine sugar and cinnamon; sprinkle over the top. Cover and bake until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, 45-50 minutes. Let stand for 5 minutes. Serve with maple syrup if desired.