Heart-Shaped Monte Cristo
In this recipe, thick slices of country-style bread are filled with savory ham and cheese, then soaked in an indulgent egg mixture before being pressed to golden perfection. The resulting heart-shaped sandwiches are a delightful combination of sweet, salty, and creamy flavors that are perfect for a special breakfast or brunch. Complemented by a side of raspberry preserves, these panini press sandwiches are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
— Constant Cookbook
Ingredients
- 3 eggs, lightly beaten
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 tsp. vanilla extract
- 1⁄8 tsp. freshly grated nutmeg
- 1 1⁄2 tsp. firmly packed light brown sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 4 slices country-style or homemade bread,
- each 1 1⁄2 inches thick
- 8 thin slices ham
- 4 thin slices Swiss or Gruyère cheese
- Raspberry preserves for serving
Instructions
- Preheat an electric panini press according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, vanilla, nutmeg, brown sugar and salt until blended. Pour into a shallow baking dish.
- Using a small, sharp knife, cut a slit in one long side of each bread slice.
- Stuff 2 slices ham and 1 slice cheese in each pocket and press gently to close. Place the stuffed bread in the egg mixture and soak for 2 minutes per side.
- If desired, lightly brush the panini press with butter or spray with nonstick cooking spray. Place the bread on the press and cook according to the manufacturer's instructions until crisp and golden, 2 to 3 minutes.
- Transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board and cut each one into a heart shape using a heart toast cutter. Serve immediately with raspberry preserves. Serves 4.
- Williams-Sonoma Kitchen
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