Bacon-Stuffed French Toast Sliders

01Method

1. 1

   Heat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil and arrange the bacon in a single layer.

2. 2

   Bake until the bacon is deeply browned and crisp, approximately 15 minutes, then transfer to paper towels to drain.

3. 3

   Lower the oven temperature to 325°F (160°C). Separate the rolls by slicing the entire pack in half horizontally. Spread half of the butter across the cut surface of the bottom slab, then scatter brown sugar and cayenne evenly on top. Lay the crisp bacon over the sugar layer.

4. 4

   Coat the bottom of a 9×13-inch baking dish with some of the remaining butter, then set the prepared bottom slab of rolls inside.

5. 5

   In a separate 9×13-inch dish, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, salt, and maple syrup. Submerge the top slab of rolls in the custard, turning it a few times so the bread absorbs the mixture. Let excess drip off, then position the soaked top over the bacon layer. Cover the dish tightly with foil and discard any leftover custard.

6. 6

   Bake covered for 15 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking until the tops are golden and lightly toasted, 5 to 10 minutes more.

7. 7

   Brush the remaining butter over the tops while still warm, then cut into 12 individual sliders. Dust with powdered sugar and serve alongside extra maple syrup for dipping.