- 4 large eggs
- 3/4 cup half and half
- 1/4 cup Grand Marnier or other orange-flavored liqueur or frozen orange juice concentrate, thawed
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 tablespoon grated orange peel
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 8 3/4-inch-thick French bread slices
- 4 tablespoons(1/2 stick) butter
- Powdered sugar
- Warm maple syrup
- Whisk first 6 ingredients to blend in medium bowl. Dip each bread slice into egg mixture and arrange in 13x9x2-inch glass baking dish. Pour remaining egg mixture evenly over bread. Let stand until egg mixture is absorbed, at least 20 minutes. (Can be prepared 1 day ahead. Cover and refrigerate.)
- Place baking sheet in oven and preheat to 350&F. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in heavy large skillet over medium heat. Add 4 bread slices to skillet and saut&until cooked through and brown, about 3 minutes per side. Place on baking sheet in oven to keep warm. Repeat cooking with remaining 2 tablespoons butter and 4 bread slices. Transfer French toast to 4 plates. Sift powdered sugar over. Serve with maple syrup.