Apple, Cheddar and Ham Breakfast Strata

• 12 large eggs
• 1 ½ c milk
• ½ c heavy cream
• 3 tbsp honey mustard
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp freshly ground pepper
• 4 tbsp butter, divided (2 tbsp melted)
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 apples, peeled, cored, and diced
• 2 ½ c shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 ½ c black forest ham, diced
• 1 loaf crusty Italian bread, cut into 1-in cubes

Whisk together first 6 ingredients together in a large bowl and set aside. In large skillet over medium high heat, melt 2 tbsp butter. Add sugar and the apples and sauté for 10 minutes, or until apples are slightly soft.

Butter a 9 x 13-inch baking dish and scatter ½ c cheese on bottom of dish. Layer half of bread cubes, half of apples and half of ham over cheese. Sprinkle with 1 c of cheese and layer remaining bread cubes, apples and ham. Top with last cup of cheese. Pour egg-milk mixture over top and gently press down with a large spoon to make sure the top layer is moist. Drizzle 2 tbsp melted butter over top.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake 45-55 minutes until golden brown and slightly puffed. Let stand 10 minutes before serving.