Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast dish perfect for leisurely mornings or brunch gatherings. Featuring tender brioche bread soaked in a rich custard infused with warm cinnamon and nutmeg, layered with sweet diced apples, and baked to golden perfection. Topped with powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, it offers comforting flavors and a beautiful presentation.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard and Flavorings
- 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
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (divided, 1/4 cup used in layering, remaining 1/4 cup in custard)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
To Serve
- powdered sugar, for topping
- maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the bread and apples: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes. Let the cubes sit out to dry slightly to absorb the custard better. Peel and dice the apples into small pieces.
- Make the custard mix: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined and smooth.
- Layer the casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. Layer half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish, followed by half of the diced apples and sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar over them. Repeat the layering process with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and the remaining brown sugar.
- Soak the bread: Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples. Gently press down on the bread cubes to ensure they soak up the custard. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the bread to thoroughly absorb the custard and flavors.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Dust the top with powdered sugar and serve warm drizzled with maple syrup.
Notes
- Use brioche bread for the best rich and tender texture. Day-old or slightly stale bread yields even better results.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before for a convenient make-ahead breakfast.
- Feel free to substitute apples with pears or add nuts for extra texture.
- For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk and a vegan butter substitute.
- Reheating leftovers in the oven preserves the texture better than microwaving.
