Caramel Apple French Toast Strata

This is one of the best french toast casseroles I've ever had.  It's fairly versatile, too, which is nice.  I usually make two pans, one with apples, and one without.  Even with two pans, there are rarely leftovers. 

This is a good one for a breakfast potluck, too. 

Caramel Apple French Toast Strata

1 loaf French bread, cubed

2-4 oz cream cheese, cubed (according to preference... the original recipe called for 8oz, but I use much less)

2 apples, sliced

½-1 cup sliced almonds

6 eggs

1 cup milk

1 Tablespoon cinnamon

¾ cup butter

¾ cup brown sugar

2 Tablespoons corn syrup

Place half bread cubes into a greased 9x13 baking dish.  Cover with cream cheese cubes evenly.  Sprinkle with apple slices.  Top with remaining bread cubes and almonds.  Beat eggs, milk and cinnamon; pour over bread mixture.  (If making ahead of time cover and refrigerate overnight).  Make syrup by combining butter, brown sugar and corn syrup in saucepan and bring to a boil.  Pour over the top of the mixture.  Bake at 350 degrees F. for 35 minutes.  Sprinkle with powdered sugar and serve with syrup.