If you love warm, comforting breakfasts that feel like a hug from the inside, the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe is going to become your new go-to. This dish is a delightful blend of soft, custardy brioche bread soaking up a fragrant mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, layered with tender, sweet apples that caramelize beautifully as it bakes. It’s a crowd-pleaser perfect for lazy weekend brunches or special family gatherings, offering all the cozy flavors of fall in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe are wonderfully straightforward, each playing a key role in building layers of flavor and texture that make this dish irresistible. From the rich eggs and creamy milk that create the custard base, to the cinnamon and apples that infuse warmth and sweetness, every component is essential.
- 6 large eggs: These eggs form the rich custard that soaks into the bread, giving it that creamy texture.
- 2 cups whole milk: Provides moisture and helps create the luscious custard consistency.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance flavors.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, divided: Imparts a deep, caramel flavor and helps create a delightful crust on top.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with a warm, aromatic note that complements the apples and cinnamon.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The star spice that brings that signature cozy flavor to the dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds subtle earthiness and depth to the spice blend.
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed: Brioche absorbs custard wonderfully while staying soft and buttery after baking.
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced: Fresh apples give a juicy burst of sweetness and a slight tartness that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Used to drizzle on top, adding richness and helping the crust brown beautifully.
- Powdered sugar, for topping: A light dusting for a touch of sweetness and a pretty presentation.
- Maple syrup, for serving: The perfect drizzle to enhance every bite with extra sweetness.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Apples
Start by cutting your brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes. Let these cubes sit out for a little bit; this drying period allows the bread to soak up the custard without turning mushy. While the bread is resting, peel and dice your apples into bite-sized pieces—this ensures they’ll become soft and tender as they bake, blending perfectly with the custard-soaked bread.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, half of the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This fragrant custard mixture is the heart of the casserole, infusing every bite with rich, warm flavors. Make sure the spices are well blended into the wet ingredients for an even taste.
Step 3: Layer the Casserole
Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Begin by layering half of the cubed brioche, followed by half of the diced apples, then sprinkle a quarter cup of brown sugar over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, apples, and brown sugar. These layers ensure every slice of casserole has a perfect blend of bread and fruit.
Step 4: Pour the Custard and Add Butter
Slowly pour the custard mixture over the layered bread and apples, pressing down gently to help the cubes soak up as much of the liquid as possible. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top—this step adds a gorgeous golden finish and enhances the buttery flavors throughout the casserole.
Step 5: Chill to Let Flavors Meld
Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight. This resting time gives the bread plenty of time to soak up the custard, so it bakes up perfectly soft inside and custardy throughout. It’s a little patience that rewards you with incredible texture and flavor.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
When you’re ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top turns a golden brown and the edges become beautifully caramelized. The aroma alone will have everyone eagerly waiting.
Step 7: Cool and Finish
Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar for that extra touch of sweetness and visual appeal. Don’t forget to drizzle maple syrup over the top just before serving—that final touch brings the whole dish together for a comforting, luscious breakfast experience.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes to your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe elevates the experience. A simple dusting of powdered sugar gives it a delicate sweetness and pretty presentation. For extra flair, add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch, or a few fresh apple slices to highlight the flavors inside. A dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can turn this into a dessert-worthy treat as well.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs beautifully with fresh fruit on the side like berries, oranges, or even a simple mixed fruit salad to add brightness and balance. Crispy bacon or savory sausage links complement the sweet dish perfectly too, creating a well-rounded brunch plate full of sweet and savory delights.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun brunch gathering, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small baking dishes so everyone gets their own bubbling hot portion. You can also turn leftover slices into French toast sticks by reheating and cutting into strips perfect for dipping in syrup. Presenting it with a sprinkle of cinnamon or a cinnamon stick garnish adds a charming touch that guests will love.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it moist and delicious, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or foil. Refrigerating it overnight only deepens the flavors, so leftovers can taste even better the next day!
Freezing
You can freeze this casserole both before and after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble as usual, cover tightly with foil and plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 1 month. When ready to bake, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed. For freezing leftovers, wrap individual portions tightly and freeze up to 2 months for easy breakfasts on busy mornings.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes until warmed through and the top regains some crispness. You can also microwave individual portions, though the oven method maintains the best texture. A quick drizzle of maple syrup after reheating makes it just as magical the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Brioche is ideal for its buttery richness, but challah, Texas toast, or even thick-cut white bread can work. Just make sure the bread isn’t too fresh or it won’t soak up the custard well.
Do I have to peel the apples?
It’s recommended to peel the apples for a smoother texture in the casserole, but you can leave the skins on if you prefer more bite and added nutrients. Just be sure to use thin-skinned apples like Gala or Fuji.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The casserole will still be deliciously flavorful.
How long can I soak the bread in custard?
At minimum, 2 hours gives great results, but soaking the casserole overnight in the refrigerator really allows the flavors to meld and the bread to fully absorb the custard for maximum richness.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
Oven reheating at 350°F is best for restoring the crispy top and warming through evenly. Microwaving works for a quick fix but can yield a softer texture.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for the ultimate breakfast or brunch centerpiece, the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe checks every box. It’s a heartwarming mix of spices, sweet apples, and custardy bread that feels like a special treat every time. Whip it up for your next gathering or just a cozy weekend morning, and watch it disappear from the table with smiles all around. Trust me, once you try this, it will be on your regular rotation!
Print
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus chilling time (minimum 2 hours)
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a warm, comforting breakfast dish perfect for fall mornings or special occasions. Featuring layers of soft brioche bread, tender diced apples, and a rich custard infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, it’s baked to golden perfection and topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup for an irresistible sweet finish.
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Base and Topping
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (divided for layering)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Powdered sugar, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread and Apples. Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and let it sit out to dry slightly, which helps it absorb the custard better. Peel and dice the apples into small chunks.
- Make the Custard. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble the Casserole. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the bread cubes evenly on the bottom, followed by half of the diced apples, and sprinkle with half of the 1/4 cup brown sugar. Repeat the layering with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and brown sugar.
- Pour the Custard. Slowly pour the custard mixture over the layered bread and apples, pressing down gently so the bread soaks up the liquid. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Chill Overnight. Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard and flavors to meld.
- Bake the Casserole. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish covered with foil for 30 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Serve. Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes. Dust the top with powdered sugar and serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup for a delicious breakfast treat.
Notes
- Using brioche bread gives a rich, buttery texture, but you can substitute challah or Texas toast if needed.
- For best flavor, refrigerate the assembled casserole overnight, but at least 2 hours is sufficient.
- Peeling the apples prevents added texture and makes for a smoother bite, but leaving the peel on adds extra fiber.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free bread, though texture may vary slightly.
