STUFFED APRICOT FRENCH TOAST

Stuffed Apricot French Toast image

In our family, this special recipe is often served for our Christmas Day brunch. I was always looking for something unique to serve, and this rich, colorful dish certainly fills the bill. It tastes so good!

Provided by Taste of Home

Time 25m

Yield 8 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 9

Ingredients

1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
1-1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract, divided
1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts
1 loaf (1-1/2 pounds) French bread
4 large eggs
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 jar (12 ounces) apricot preserves
1/2 cup orange juice

Steps:

In a bowl, beat cream cheese and 1 teaspoon vanilla until fluffy. Stir in nuts; set aside. , Cut bread into 1-1/2-in. slices; cut a pocket in the top of each slice. Fill each pocket with about 2 tablespoons cream cheese mixture. In another bowl, beat eggs, cream, nutmeg and remaining vanilla. Dip both sides of bread into egg mixture, being careful not to squeeze out the filling. , Cook on a lightly greased griddle until lightly browned on both sides. Place on an ungreased baking sheet; bake at 325° for 15-20 minutes or until a knife inserted near the middle comes out clean. , Meanwhile, combine preserves and orange juice in a small saucepan; heat through. Drizzle over hot French toast.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 632 calories, Fat 31g fat (15g saturated fat), Cholesterol 178mg cholesterol, Sodium 662mg sodium, Carbohydrate 76g carbohydrate (30g sugars, Fiber 3g fiber), Protein 16g protein.