Orange French Toast

6 eggs
1 ½ cups half and half or milk
1 tsp. vanilla
½ tsp. cinnamon
1/8 tsp. nutmeg
pinch of salt
1 Tblsp. Orange zest
4 oz. cream cheese, softened
2-3 Tblsp. Confectioners' sugar
6 croissants
½ cup orange marmalade
¼ cup butter or oil
syrup, orange or maple

Combine eggs, half and half, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt and orange zest; mix completely; set aside. Combine cream cheese and confectioners' sugar in a small bowl. Divide cream cheese mixture and spread on bottom of each croissant; top with equal amounts of marmalade. Place tops back on each croissant and place in a shallow casserole dish. Pour egg mixture over croissant and let soak at least 5 minutes; turn croissants and let soak an additional 5 minutes or until egg mixture is absorbed. Heat 2 tablespoons butter or oil in large skillet and sauté 3 croissants on each side over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes each or until golden brown. Repeat with remaining croissants.

Orange Syrup

½ cup sugar
½ cup butter
1 cup orange juice

Combine ingredients in small saucepan and cook over low heat (do not boil). Allow to cool for 10 minutes and serve warm.