If you adore warm, comforting breakfasts that feel like a hug on a plate, then this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Imagine the soft, custardy texture of brioche bread soaked in a heavenly cinnamon-spiced custard, layered with tender, sweet apples, and baked to golden perfection. It’s an effortless yet show-stopping dish that brings classic flavors together in a way that’s perfect for a weekend brunch or holiday morning. Once you try this recipe, it will become one of those treasured family favorites you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe calls for simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that combine beautifully for a rich and cozy flavor. Each component plays a crucial role—from the creamy eggs and milk that create the luscious custard, to the sweet apples and warm spices that add that unmistakable autumn charm.
- 6 large eggs: These help create the custardy base that binds everything together and gives the casserole its rich texture.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess without overpowering the other flavors, making the custard silky smooth.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Provides balanced sweetness to the custard, enhancing the overall flavor without being too sugary.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, divided: Adds deep, caramel notes that complement the apples and cinnamon perfectly.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Enhances the warmth of the cinnamon and brings a lovely fragrant aroma.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The star spice that adds that classic apple pie flavor and warms every bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Just a hint to boost the spiced profile without overpowering the other spices.
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed: Its buttery, soft texture soaks up the custard beautifully for melt-in-your-mouth goodness.
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced: They bring freshness and a lovely fruity sweetness that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Drizzled on top before baking, it helps create a golden, slightly crisp crust.
- Powdered sugar, for topping: Adds a pretty, delicate sweetness and makes the presentation extra special.
- Maple syrup, for serving: The perfect finishing touch that cuts through the richness and ties all the flavors together.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Bread and Apples
Begin by cutting your brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes. Letting the bread sit out for a bit allows it to dry slightly, which helps it absorb the custard without turning too soggy. Meanwhile, peel and dice your apples into bite-sized pieces. This simple prep sets the foundation for the dish’s inviting texture and hearty fruit presence.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
Grab a large bowl and whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, half of the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This custard mixture is packed with warm spices and sweetness that will soak into every bread cube, giving your casserole that irresistible depth and gooey softness.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. Start your layers by spreading half of the brioche cubes evenly in the dish, then sprinkle half of the diced apples and 1/4 cup of brown sugar over the bread. Repeat this layering one more time with the remaining bread, apples, and brown sugar. This layering ensures the fruit and sweetness are evenly distributed throughout.
Step 4: Pour the Custard and Add Butter
Pour the custard mixture over the layered bread and apples, pressing down gently to help soak the bread cubes fully. Next, drizzle the melted butter on top, which will help to create a slightly crispy golden crust when it bakes, adding an irresistible texture contrast.
Step 5: Refrigerate to Soak
Cover the dish tightly and refrigerate for at least two hours, or overnight if you have the time. This soaking period allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, making the casserole thick, moist, and bursting with flavor. It also makes your morning prep wonderfully hands-off.
Step 6: Bake to Golden Perfection
When ready, preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes, which traps moisture and helps it cook evenly. Then, remove the cover and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and slightly crispy along the edges. The aroma alone will have you eager to dive in.
Step 7: Final Touches Before Serving
Let your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe cool for 5 to 10 minutes after baking. Dust with a light sprinkle of powdered sugar and drizzle with warm maple syrup just before serving. These finishing touches elevate the dish with sweetness and a touch of elegance to impress anyone lucky enough to share this breakfast feast.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
While powdered sugar and maple syrup are classics, consider some fresh additions like a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream. These add crunch and creaminess that complement the soft, custardy casserole beautifully.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with crispy bacon or savory sausage links for a well-rounded breakfast plate. Fresh fruit, like berries or orange segments, also works nicely to add brightness and cut through the sweetness.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins for charming personal portions, or layer it in a clear glass dish to showcase those beautiful layers of brioche and apple. Add a cinnamon stick as garnish to elevate the visual warmth and aroma at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole should be covered tightly and stored in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 days. The flavors often intensify after a day, making for even tastier bites later on.
Freezing
You can freeze the baked casserole wrapped well in foil or in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to preserve its texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 1 to 2 minutes or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F oven until heated through and bubbly. Adding a little extra maple syrup or powdered sugar before serving brightens it right up.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread instead of brioche?
Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its buttery richness and soft texture, you can substitute challah, Texas toast, or even thick-cut white bread. Just make sure the bread is sturdy enough to soak up the custard without falling apart.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole before baking?
Yes, refrigerating allows the bread to soak up the custard fully, resulting in a custardy interior that’s not dry or chewy. While you could bake it immediately, the texture won’t be as tender and cohesive.
Can I prepare this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe gluten-free?
Definitely! Use a gluten-free loaf that mimics the texture of brioche or challah. Just keep an eye on the custard absorption and baking time, as gluten-free breads may react slightly differently.
How can I make this recipe more indulgent?
For an extra decadent touch, add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts between layers, or swirl in cream cheese or mascarpone before baking. A drizzle of caramel sauce alongside the maple syrup can also take it over the top.
Can this recipe be scaled down for fewer servings?
Yes, you can halve or even quarter the recipe, just adjust the baking time accordingly. Use a smaller baking dish and keep an eye on it to prevent overbaking.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a breakfast that feels special but is easy to prepare, the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Its cozy layers of custardy bread and tender apples make every bite a celebration of fall-inspired comfort. Give it a try, share it with your loved ones, and watch it become a beloved tradition for your weekend mornings.
Print
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus 2 hours chilling time
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a comforting and delicious breakfast dish that combines soft brioche bread soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard with tender diced apples. Baked to golden perfection, it’s a perfect make-ahead recipe that can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning, topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup for a sweet finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, divided
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Toppings
- 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. Peel and dice the apples.
- Make Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cubed bread, half of the diced apples, and 1/4 cup of brown sugar evenly. Repeat the layering with the remaining bread, apples, and brown sugar.
- Soak Bread: Pour the custard mixture over the layered ingredients, pressing gently to ensure the bread absorbs the custard. Drizzle the melted butter evenly on top.
- Refrigerate: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow the bread to soak and flavors to meld.
- Bake Covered: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered with foil or lid for 30 minutes.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the cover and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
Notes
- For best texture, allow the brioche bread to dry out slightly before assembling.
- Refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor and better custard absorption.
- Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Make sure to cover the casserole during the initial baking to keep it moist.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
