Description

This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole combines the sweetness of caramelized apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the comforting richness of French toast into one irresistible breakfast dish. Perfect for cozy brunches or special mornings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 firm apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 cup brown sugar, divided
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cinnamon, divided
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/4 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
2 tablespoons butter (for cooking apples)

Instructions

Cut your bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
In a saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the diced apples, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg. Cook until the apples are slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Spread the cooked apples evenly over the bread cubes.
In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups of milk, 1/2 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples, pressing down gently to ensure everything is soaked.
In a medium bowl, mix 1/2 cup of flour, 1/3 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1/4 cup of cold butter. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to blend until the mixture is crumbly. Sprinkle this over the casserole.
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to let the bread soak up the custard.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden and the center is set.
Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or whipped cream if desired.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread for the best texture. Don’t skip the chilling step to ensure the custard is fully absorbed. If the top starts browning too quickly while baking, cover it loosely with foil.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice
Calories: 325
Sugar: 25
Sodium: 210
Fat: 14
Saturated Fat: 8
Carbohydrates: 42
Fiber: 2
Protein: 8

Keywords: French toast casserole, cinnamon apple breakfast, baked French toast, make-ahead breakfast, holiday brunch