Trim ends from bread. Slice the loaf of bread into 8 to 12 equal slices.
In a shallow mixing bowl or 9-inch pie plate, combine eggs, half-and-half, sugar, and vanilla. Dip bread slices into egg mixture, coating both sides.
In a 12-inch nonstick skillet or on a griddle, cook bread in hot butter over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Add more butter as needed. Serve French toast warm with Sauteed Apples and maple syrup. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Makes 8 servings.
In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add sliced, peeled cooking apples. Stir to coat apples with melted butter. Reduce to low heat. Cook apples, covered, for 5 minutes. Stir in brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Cook mixture, uncovered, for 5 minutes more or until apples are tender and glazed, stirring often. Makes 1-1/2 cups.