Monte Cristo French Toast Breakfast Casserole

Steps

1. 1Preheat oven to 425°F. Butter a 9x13-inch baking pan and set aside.
2. 2Melt butter
3. 3In a small saucepan, melt 1/4 cup butter over medium heat.
4. 4Add sugar
5. 5Stir in 1/2 cup white sugar until dissolved and smooth.
6. 6Butter pan
7. 7Pour the butter-sugar mixture into the bottom of the baking pan and spread evenly.
8. 8Mix bread mixture
9. 9In a medium bowl, toss together 8 oz French bread cut into cubes, 3 slices honey ham cut into 1-inch pieces, 3 slices deli turkey cut into 1-inch pieces, and 3 slices Swiss cheese cut into 1-inch pieces.
10. 10Add to pan
11. 11Spread the bread mixture evenly over the butter-sugar layer.
12. 12Make custard
13. 13In a medium bowl, whisk 6 eggs, 2 cups milk, and 2 teaspoons vanilla extract until blended.
14. 14Pour custard
15. 15Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are coated.
16. 16Sprinkle sugar
17. 17Sprinkle the top with 1 tablespoon brown sugar.
18. 18Bake for 25 to 30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
19. 19Add preserves
20. 20Remove from oven. Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired and serve with 1/2 cup raspberry preserves.