INGREDIENTS
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Unsalted butter, room temperature, for baking dish
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1 14-inch loaf rustic bread, such as pane Pugliese, cut into 8 slices
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8 thin slices ham, plus more for topping (optional)
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8 ounces Gruyere, thinly sliced, plus more for topping (optional)
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8 large eggs
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2/3 cup whole milk
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Coarse salt and freshly ground pepper
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Pure maple syrup, such as Noble