Cinnamon-Apple Stuffed French Toast

Makes 2 french toasts

2     ounces cream cheese, softened at room
       temperature
2     tablespoons powdered sugar, plus extra
       for dusting
1     small baking apple, peeled, cored,
       and chopped
1     tablespoon brown sugar¾ teaspoon cinnamon, divided
4     slices brioche-style sliced bread (even
       better if you can find a cinnamon variety)
1     egg
½    teaspoon pure vanilla extract
2     tablespoons milk or cream
       melted butter for brushing
       powdered sugar for dusting
       whipped cream for serving

Nutritional information per toast:
Calories 425 (35% from fat) • carb. 60g • pro. 10g• fat 17g • sat. fat 8g • chol. 149mg • sod. 363mg• calc. 481mg • fiber 4g

Mix together softened cream cheese and
powdered sugar until smooth; set aside. Combine
chopped apple, brown sugar and ½ teaspoon
cinnamon in a microwave-safe bowl and cook for
2 minutes, stirring halfway. Apples will be tender
and saucy. Evenly spread the sweetened cream
cheese on 2 slices of brioche bread, leaving at
least a ½-inch border around the edges. Top with
3 tablespoons of the cinnamon apples, followed
by the remaining two slices of bread.
Preheat the Cuisinart® Sandwich Maker. While unit
is preheating, beat together egg, vanilla extract,
milk and ¼ teaspoon cinnamon. Lightly brush the
plates with melted butter. Dunk each sandwich
into the egg mixture, letting any excess drip off,
and carefully place onto the preheated Sandwich
Maker. Use firm pressure to close lid; lock and
cook. Green indicator light will go off and red light
will come on (this may not happen immediately).
When green indicator light reappears, sandwich is
cooked. Add 15 to 30 seconds additional cooking
time if a toastier sandwich is preferred. Remove
with a heatproof silicone spatula. Allow sandwich
to cool slightly for 2 to 3 minutes before serving,
as filling will be very hot. Serve with any leftover
cinnamon apples, a dusting of powdered sugar,
and whipped cream