Banana Split French Toast

Banana Split French Toast

1 (10 oz.) jar maraschino cherries, well drained, divided

1 (16 oz.) loaf French bread

8 oz. package cream cheese, softened

1/4 C. powdered sugar

3 eggs

2/3 C. milk

2 T. butter

4 large bananas

prepared whipped topping

chocolate flavored syrup

2 C. sliced strawberries (optional)

1 can crushed pineapple (optional)

Halve 8 cherries for garnish; set aside. Chop remaining cherries. Cut off and discard ends of bread; slice remaining loaf into 16 (1/2-inch) slices.

Beat cream cheese and sugar at medium speed until creamy; stir in chopped cherries. Set aside. Blend eggs and milk in shallow bowl or pie plate.

Dip bread slices in egg mixture coating both sides. Cook, in batches, in 1 T. butter in large skillet over medium heat until golden, turning to cook both sides. Repeat with remaining bread and butter.

Slice bananas in half lengthwise; halve again crosswise.

Gently spread 2 tablespoons cream cheese mixture onto each slice of French toast; top with a banana quarter and a few Tablespoons of the strawberries and pineapple.

Serve topped with whipped topping, reserved cherry halves; drizzle with chocolate syrup.

Makes 16 slices.