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
Scale
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.
