Best French Toast

I make this once a week without fail.  I found the recipe standing in line at Panera one day.  It features cinnamon raisin bread, but I usually make it with whole wheat sandwich bread with or without added cinnamon (which I always add in during autumn!)  It easily halves if you make it for two people (use one to two eggs depending on how eggie you like it).  I usually serve this with fresh fruit, a side of eggs, and real maple syrup.

Cinnamon Raisin French Toast

8 slices 1/2" thick Panera® Cinnamon Raisin Bread
4 T.melted butter
3/4 c milk
1/2 c heavy cream ( I use half and half)
3 large eggs
1 T.honey
1/2 tsp.vanilla extract
1/2 tsp.salt

1. For the French Toast custard, combine using a hand whisk the milk, heavy cream, eggs, honey, vanilla extract and the salt. This custard can be made well in advance. Give a brisk stir before making the toast.
2. Transfer the custard to a casserole or open shallow dish for dipping.
3. Dip one slice into the custard and turn over after about 15 seconds. Transfer the slice to a plate while dipping another slice into the custard.
4. Place a large skillet on a medium fire. Allow the pan to heat thoroughly before pouring 1 Tablespoon of the melted butter into the pan.
5. Place both slices carefully into the skillet and cook on each side until golden brown or about 2 minutes.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 until all the French toast is cooked.
7. An optional step is to place each finished French toast onto a baking sheet in a preheated oven until all are ready to serve.