Savory Autumnal Strata

This is from New Seasons Market and is just what I needed to get me in the mood for fall... yes, it did begin today! This is a warm quiche-like dish and very rich. Just a small portion will do and served alongside a salad makes one feel less guilty about it! Please note: this must chill for 1 hour prior to baking!

1 loaf French bread or 2 baguettes, sliced

6 eggs

2 c. milk

1 c. cream

2 tbsp butter

1 1/4 cups apple butter or applesauce

1 lb. sharp or regular cheddar, grated

1 1/4 c. carmelized onions- directions below if needed

2 apples, diced, skins on if you like

1 c. chopped pecans

Whisk together eggs, milk and cream in a large bowl and set aside. Butter or spray a deep 9x13 inch baking dish (must be nearly 2" deep or will overflow). Cover bottom of dish with a layer of bread slices, then layer apple butter/sauce, diced apple, carmelized onions, and 3/4 of the cheddar. Cover with remaining bread, then sprinkle remaining cheese on top. Pour egg and cream mixture over entire strata, then sprinkle pecans on top. Refrigerate for at least one hour before baking. Bake, uncovered, until fluffy and golden, 45 min- 1 hour (mine only took 45 min.)

Enjoy!

Carmelized onions:

3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
2 1/2 pounds onions, thinly sliced
Salt and pepper
2 teaspoons sugar
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter in the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper, and cook, stirring constantly, until the onions begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

2. Stir in the sugar and cook, scraping the browned bits off the bottom of the pan frequently, until the onions are golden brown, about 20 minutes.