Blueberry Surprise French Toast Bake

This is Blueberry Surprise French Toast Bake

This is an easy and impressive dish.  Great if you have a big family or company.

12 slices dry white bread, cut into 1/2 inch cubes ( about 8 cups)
2 8oz packages of cream cheese, cut into 3/4 inch cubes
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
12 eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup maple syrup 

1.  Place half of the bread cubes over the bottom of a well-butterered 13x9x2 inch baking dish (3-quart rectangular).  Sprinkle cream cheese and blueberries over brea cubes.  Arrange remaining bread cubes over blueberries.

2.  In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs with a rotary beater; beat in milk and the 1/2 cup syrup.  Carefully pour egg mixture over the bread mixture.  Cover and chill in the refrigerator for 2 to 24 hours.

3.  Bake, covered, in a 375 degree f oven for 25 minutes.  Uncover and bake about 25 minutes more or until a knife inserted near the center comes out clean, and topping is puffed and golden brown.  Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.  Serve warm with blueberry-flavored or maple syrup.  Makes 8 servings.

Note:  To dry bread slices:  Arrange bread in a single layer on a wire rack; cover loosely and let stand overnight.  Or cut bread with 1/2 inch cubes; spread in a large baking pan.  Bake, uncovered, in a 300 degree f oven or 10 to 15 minutes or until dry, stirring twice; cool.