Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a warm and comforting breakfast dish featuring tender brioche or challah bread soaked in a rich custard infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla. Layered with diced apples and topped with a cinnamon brown sugar butter crumble, it’s baked until golden and perfect for family gatherings or cozy mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf brioche or challah (about 16 ounces), cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 large apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and diced
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Topping
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
- Assemble Bread and Apples: Spread the cubed brioche or challah evenly in the prepared baking dish. Scatter the peeled, cored, and diced apples over the bread cubes to distribute them uniformly.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and salt until the custard mixture is smooth and completely blended.
- Soak Bread with Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread cubes so they absorb the liquid well, ensuring a moist casserole.
- Prepare and Add Topping: In a small bowl, combine the light brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir in the melted butter until the mixture is combined, then sprinkle this topping evenly over the casserole surface.
- Rest the Casserole: Let the casserole sit uncovered for 15 to 30 minutes at room temperature to allow the bread to soak. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor and better custard absorption.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 40 to 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set, indicating it is cooked through.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool slightly before serving. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup for added sweetness.
Notes
- For best texture and flavor, refrigerate overnight after assembling before baking.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweet custard.
- Whole milk and heavy cream give a rich, creamy custard; you can substitute with lower-fat options but flavor may be less rich.
- Ensure bread cubes are 1-inch size for optimal custard absorption and even baking.
- Serve with maple syrup or fresh fruit for an extra special breakfast or brunch treat.
