Serves 6

Ingredients:

16 oz. sliced fresh peaches or one 16-oz. package frozen sliced peaches
1/2-cup sugar
1 Tbs. almond extract
6 Tbs. unsalted butter, cut up, plus 2 Tbs.
3 eggs
1 cup milk
1 tsp. ground cinnamon
6 muffin-sized brioches, halved lengthwise
1/2-cup sliced almonds, toasted (optional)

Shopping tip: Look for brioche in your local French bakery or gourmet grocery store; substitute challah or sourdough bread if necessary. Apples, pears or berries make great toppings if peaches are unavailable.

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 450F.
   
2. In a 9x13-inch baking pan, combine peaches, sugar, almond extract and six tablespoons butter.
   
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until peaches are lightly browned.
   
4. Put the remaining two tablespoons of butter in a 4x6-inch nonstick loaf pan and place in oven for 10 minutes.
   
5. In a shallow bowl, whisk eggs, milk and cinnamon.
   
6. Dip brioche halves in egg mixture and place, cut side down, in the heated baking pan. Bake for 7-10 minutes, or until toasted on the bottom.
   
7. Place brioches on a platter, toasted side up, and top with caramelized peaches. Sprinkle with toasted almonds, if desired.

Tip: Freeze bread beforehand so your slices come out clean and equal.