French Toast With Caramelised Apple & Maple Syrup Bacon

Step 1: Lay the bacon slices out flat in a single layer on a large baking sheet and place another baking sheet on top which fits inside the main one to keep the slices flat and bake in a 220C oven until the bacon is sizzling.

Step 2: Remove the top tray and brush the bacon with the maple syrup and return to the oven and cook until golden.

Step 3: For the apples, melt the butter and sugar in a wide based pan over a moderate heat and when it has melted add the apple pieces and when they are golden brown on one side turn over and repeat.

Step 4: For the French toast cut out 12cm circles or thereabout from the bread.

Step 5: If you don't have cutters use a bowl as a template.

Step 6: Lightly beat the eggs and to them add the cream, sugar and vanilla in a shallow dish and soak the bread in this for at least 10 minutes, turning occasionally.

Step 7: Heat a wide based pan to moderate and add the butter and then when melted, the soggy bread and cook until golden brown, turn and cook the other side.

Step 8: To serve, place the bread on plates, followed by slices of the apple and then the bacon slices and drizzle over the remaining sauce from the apples.