Cherry Valentines

Directions

1. 1
   Using a hand mixer, mix the whipped cream, sugar, vanilla, and cream cheese together in a bowl; chill.
2. 2
   In a pie plate or other shallow pan, whisk together the milk, eggs, almond extract, and salt.
3. 3
   Add a few drops of red food coloring to make mixture pink, if desired.
4. 4
   Cut bread slices into large heart shapes with a heart-shaped cookie cutter.
5. 5
   Soak bread slices in egg mixture for 10 seconds on each side.
6. 6
   Heat a frying pan sprayed with nonstick cooking spray over medium heat.
7. 7
   Cover and cook soaked bread in pan 2-3 minutes on each side, or until lightly browned.
8. 8
   Let each slice cool to room temperature.
9. 9
   Place 1/4 of the chilled cream filling between two French toast slices.
10. 10
    Ladle generously with Chunky Cherry Syrup and serve sprinkled with powdered sugar as a garnish.
11. 11
    Make Cherry Syrup: add cherries to a saucepan; add in corn syrup and sugar.
12. 12
    Bring to a full rolling boil.
13. 13
    Decrease heat and let simmer 25-30 minutes, or until thickened.
14. 14
    Turn off heat and add a few drops of red food coloring, if desired.
15. 15
    Let cool to warm and serve; may store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.