Mother’s Day is on Sunday, and if you’re a mom like me, it generally means it’s one of the only mornings that I can sleep in, wake up to a cup of coffee and possibly breakfast in bed… if I’m lucky enough, it might follow through to lunch or dinner… but I’m not gonna push my luck!

So here it is, the recipe you should forward to your husband’s e-mail inbox.  It’s easy, it’s fast, it’s incredibly delicious and here’s the best part: There’s a minimal mess for you to face in the kitchen when it’s all over!  The kids will love it, Dad will love it and I promise you… you will too!  It’s that scrumptious.  You might be asking Dad to forward this recipe back to you!

Apple Cinnamon Raisin French Toast Strata

Ingredients

• 1 Loaf Cinnamon Raisin Bread
• 1 Large Apple, Peeled
• 6 eggs
• 1/2 (4oz) package Cream Cheese
• 1/2 Cup Ricotta Cheese
• 1 Cup Milk
• 1 Cup Heavy Cream
• 4 Tbs.  Melted Butter
• 1/4 Cup Maple Syrup
• 1/2 Tsp. Vanilla Extract

Directions

Cut the raisin bread into large cubes.  Dice and the peeled apples. Spray a 9×13 inch pyrex dish with non stick cooking spray.  Place 1/2 of the raisin bread in an even layer on the bottom of the pyrex.  Cube the cream cheese and layer the cubes along with the apples on top of the bread. Then top with the remaining bread. 

In a large bowl, combine the eggs, the milk, the cream, ricotta cheese, melted butter, maple syrup and vanilla and pour over the bread, cream cheese and apples.  Allow to sit in the refrigerator for at least an hour, if not 2 or 3.  

Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees for 45 minutes. 

If Dad is feeling extra enthusiastic to be in the kitchen, have him make some fresh whipped cream on top!  

Happy Mother’s Day to all you Mamas out there!  You deserve it, so enjoy!  (Did you hear that Dads?)