Here’s a great example of how great-tasting “better-for-you” can be. This sensational family-favorite easy “overnight” french toast includes cream cheese for extra richness and vanilla and cinnamon for extra flavor, and I guarantee it does not disappoint! It’s an all-time favorite of mine for toting to pot-luck brunches as well as serving at home on Christmas morning (the smell as it comes out of the oven is downright heavenly!).
I know that holidays are a time many of us splurge, but I am thrilled to say that I was able to cut the calories by 50%, the sugar by 80%, and the saturated fat by a whopping 90%, allowing everyone to enjoy this wonderful dish guilt-free (and with so many other goodies around, who can’t use a little savings…).
Moreover, if you are one of my many “friends” who has switched over to WW newest SmartPoints plan, you will be delighted to know that instead of the 16 points per serving in the original recipe (and that’s before any syrup!), this beautiful sweet breakfast bake now has only 5. Simply add some fresh fruit (like berries or sliced bananas), Canadian bacon or lean ham, and a drizzle of sugar-free or light syrup, and you’ve got a breakfast even Saint Nick would be proud of!
Merry Christmas.
Serves Twelve
Ingredients:
12-ounces light tub-style cream cheese
3/4 cup granulated no-calorie sweetener*
2 tablespoons margarine or butter, softened
2 teaspoons vanilla
1 1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
2 large eggs, room temperature
1 cup egg substitute (like Egg Beaters or 4 large eggs)
3 cups low-fat milk
1 pound French, cinnamon swirl (my favorite), or wheat bread (1-inch slices)
2 teaspoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish or 2 smaller (9 x 9-inch) baking pans with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large bowl, with an electric mixer, beat the cream cheese, sweetener, margarine, vanilla, and cinnamon until smooth. Blend in the eggs one at a time, and then the egg substitute (or additional eggs). Whisk in the milk and mix well. Place the bread slices into the baking dish and cover them with the egg mixture (pressing down lightly to allow mixture to soak in). Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight.
3. Pre-heat oven to 350°F. Bake for 40-45 minutes until puffed in center and lightly browned. Remove from oven, and lightly dust with powdered sugar if desired.
*If you prefer to use all-natural Truvia for Baking or another baking blend that is twice as sweet use 1/2 as much, or 6 tablespoons.
Per Serving (1/12 of casserole): Calories 190 | Fat 7 grams ( 1.5 saturated) | Carbohydrate 25 grams (3 grams sugar) | Fiber 2 grams |Protein 11 grams | Sodium 305 milligrams| Food exchanges: 1 Carbohydrate, 1/2 Low-Fat Milk, 1 Medium-Fat Meat | Weight Watcher Smart Point Comparison: Green 5, Blue 5, Purple 5
