Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole (Printable Version)
Cinnamon-spiced apples and custardy brioche create a cozy baked treat for breakfast or brunch.
# What You'll Need:
→ Bread
01 -
1 loaf brioche or challah bread (about 16 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes
→ Fruit
02 -
3 large Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and diced
→ Custard
03 -
6 large eggs
04 -
2 cups whole milk
05 -
1/2 cup heavy cream
06 -
1/2 cup granulated sugar
07 -
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
08 -
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
09 -
2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
10 -
1/4 teaspoon salt
→ Topping
11 -
1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
12 -
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
13 -
3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
# Step-by-Step Guide:
01 -
Preheat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with unsalted butter or nonstick spray.
02 -
Distribute the cubed brioche or challah evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the diced apples uniformly over the bread.
03 -
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt until completely combined.
04 -
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples. Gently press the bread down to ensure it absorbs the liquid.
05 -
In a small bowl, mix the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted unsalted butter until fully incorporated.
06 -
Sprinkle the brown sugar mixture evenly across the surface of the casserole.
07 -
Allow the assembled casserole to rest for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature, or cover and refrigerate overnight for optimal flavor development.
08 -
Bake in the preheated oven for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
09 -
Let the casserole cool slightly before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and offer warm with maple syrup if desired.
# Additional Notes:
01 -
Overnight refrigeration deepens flavor and simplifies morning preparation.