Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish featuring layers of cubed brioche bread and diced apples soaked in a sweet cinnamon-spiced custard. Baked to golden perfection and topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup, it’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing treat perfect for sharing.
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
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for layering)
Toppings and Finishing
- 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 allow the bread to dry slightly by leaving it out at room temperature. Peel and dice the apples into small pieces.
- 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 fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the casserole layers: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the cubed bread evenly on the bottom, followed by half of the diced apples and then sprinkle with 1/4 cup brown sugar. Repeat the layering with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and brown sugar.
- Soak the bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples, then gently press down to ensure all bread cubes are well soaked. Drizzle the melted butter on top of the entire casserole.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered (with foil or lid) for 30 minutes, then uncover and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Dust generously with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup to taste.
Notes
- For best results, soak the casserole overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
- You can use other bread types if brioche is unavailable, but brioche adds richness and a tender texture.
- Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg according to taste preference.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Adding chopped nuts or raisins can provide more textures and flavors if desired.
