French Toast Casserole

1 long loaf French bread
8 eggs
3 c. milk
4 tsp. sugar
3/4 tsp. salt
1 tbsp. vanilla
2 tbsp. butter, cut in sm. pieces
Syrup or honey to pour over top before serving

 

Generously butter a 9 x 13 inch cake pan. Cut French bread into 1 inch thick slices. Arrange bread slices in single layer over bottom of pan. Beat eggs, milk, sugar, salt and vanilla in large bowl until mixed. Pour over bread. (Can sprinkle a little cinnamon over top also if you'd like.) Cover with foil. Refrigerate overnight. Heat oven to 350 degrees. Dot casserole with butter pieces. Bake until bread is puffy or lightly browned, 45 to 50 minutes. 8 to 12 servings.