Blueberry or Apple Bristol (Stratta)

11 oz. Bread Cubes (Challa or Cinnamon Bread Recommended)
12 tsp. cubed Cream Cheese
2 cups Blueberries (fresh – preferred or frozen) Apples and raisons work well.
Dash Salt
16 Eggs
16 oz. Milk (Can use half heavy whipped cream/half whole milk)
1 tsp. Vanilla
Dash of Cinnamon
¾ cup Maple Syrup
¼ cup Butter
Rice Krispies

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray eight large ramekins with Pam. Layer bread cubes to line the bottom of the ramekins. Generously dot crème cheese throughout (1 – ½ tsp. per ramekin). Spread blueberries evenly among the ramekins.

Combine eggs, milk, vanilla and salt. Pour 4 oz. of egg mixture into each ramekin. Leave about ¼ inch from top of ramekin.

Cover. Refrigerate overnight.

Cook maple syrup and butter in microwave for 5 to 6 mins. on high. Stir once. Syrup should thicken slightly. Pour over prepared ramekin. Sprinkle with Rice Krispies.

Line cookie sheet with foil. Place ramekins on sheet and bake for 45 minutes. Run a flat knife around the side of the ramekins. Place a cloth napkin on top. Flip over and flip over again onto plate. Or, serve in ramekin (much easier).

Drizzle maple syrup/butter remains over stratta and sprinkle with powdered sugar.

For those with dietary restrictions, egg whites can be used instead of whole eggs. Lowfat milk or Lactose-free milk can be used instead of whole milk. Gluten-free bread may also be used. The strata will not rise as high, but will taste delicious. Serves 8