Cinnamon-Cranberry Brunch Strata

This deliciously easy bread pudding casserole is perfect for holiday brunches. Recipe courtesy of the American Egg Board.

Recipe Ingredients:

8 slices cinnamon swirl bread
1 1/2 cups sweetened dried cranberries or raisins
4 large eggs
2 1/2 cups whipping cream
1 1/2 cups milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
2 teaspoons vanilla extract

Cooking Directions:

1. Place 6 bread slices in single layer in greased 13x9x2-inch baking dish. Tear remaining 2 bread slices into 1-inch pieces. Scatter bread pieces and cranberries evenly over bread in pan.
2. Beat eggs, cream, milk, sugar and vanilla in large bowl until blended. Pour over bread and cranberries. Refrigerate, covered, at least 2 hours or as long as overnight.
3. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Remove strata from refrigerator; uncover and let stand while oven heats. Bake, uncovered, in center of 350°F (175°C) oven until knife inserted near center comes out clean, about 45 minutes. Serve warm or refrigerate until cold.

Makes 8 servings.

Tip: For a sweet finishing touch, mix 1 cup powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons cream or milk; drizzle over strata before serving.

Nutritional Information Per Serving (1/8 of recipe): Calories: 529; Total Fat: 34g; Total Carbs: 50g; Fiber: 3g; Protein: 9g.

Recipe and photograph courtesy of the American Egg Board.