Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a comforting and delicious breakfast dish featuring cubed brioche bread soaked in a creamy cinnamon-spiced custard layered with tender diced apples. Baked to a golden perfection, it’s topped with powdered sugar and served with maple syrup for a perfect balance of sweet flavors and cozy textures. Ideal for a family brunch or holiday morning treat.
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
French Toast Casserole
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (divided)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Toppings and Serving
- Powdered sugar, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Bread and Apples: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and let them sit out to dry slightly, which helps them absorb the custard better. Peel and dice the apples into small pieces.
- Make the Custard Mixture: 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, followed by half of the diced apples, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and brown sugar.
- Add Custard and Butter: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layers, pressing gently to ensure the bread soaks up the custard. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the custard to fully absorb into the bread for maximum flavor and texture.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes to let it cook through and then uncover and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup just before serving for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- For best texture, letting the bread dry out or sit for a few hours before baking helps it soak up the custard better.
- Using brioche or any rich, buttery bread enhances the casserole’s flavor and texture.
- The casserole can be refrigerated overnight before baking, making it ideal for a make-ahead breakfast.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Optional additions include chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture and flavor.
