Baked Italian French Toast

1 Loaf of Italian bread Soft crust

1/2 stick of soften unsalted butter

2 large eggs

1  2/3 cup of whole milk

 
Cinnamon

6 tablespoons of sugar

Your favorite Maple Syrup

Cut 12 thick on inch slices of Italian bread, butter one side of each slice well and arrange slices up in a buttered 13x9x2 inch baking dish, just one layer, and the can fit tight in the baking dish. 

Mix well eggs, milk and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon until well mixed, then pour slowly  and evenly over Italian bread.  Let sit for about 5 minutes until the bread is has absorbed the egg mixture.

Preheat oven at 425 degrees.  Now sprinkle the bread with the sugar and more cinnamon if you would like.  Bake the French toast uncovered on the middle rack of your oven until you notice the bread is puffed and golden on top.

Cook for about 25-30 minutes. Many like the ends of the bread so you them if you like as well.

Serve hot with your favorite Maple Syrup.  This can be prepared the day before and refrigerated.  Just let the baking dish stand for about 1/2 in order for it to get to room temp. before putting in oven.  You can also top the with strawberry's or blueberry's.