Cut French bread in cubes. Place half of bread cubes in bottom of a greased 3 litre casserole dish. Sprinkle cubed cream cheese on bread. Add remaining bread cubes. In a large bowl, beat until well blended the eggs, milk, melted margarine or butter and maple syrup. Pour mixture over bread cubes and press down with a spatula. Cover with plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 2 to 24 hours. Remove wrap and bake at 160ºC or 35 to 40 minutes. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with hot butter syrup. Serves 6 to 8. Preparation time: 15 minutes Baking time: 35 to 40 minutes