This Apple French Toast Casserole is a cozy breakfast treat! Soft bread, juicy apples, and warm spices come together for a delicious start to your day. It’s like a hug in a dish!
Imagine waking up to the lovely smell of sweet apples and cinnamon filling your kitchen. I love to serve this with a drizzle of maple syrup on top. Comfort food at its best! 🍏🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A sturdy bread like challah or brioche works best for this casserole because it holds up well. If you don’t have those, French bread or even stale bread can be a good substitute.
Apples: I recommend using tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance with the sweetness. You can also use Honeycrisp if you prefer a sweeter touch or mix different types for added flavor.
Milk & Cream: This recipe calls for whole milk and heavy cream to create a rich custard. You can substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option, but keep in mind it may alter the overall texture slightly.
Sugar: Granulated sugar is traditional, but you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor. Just remember to adjust the quantity slightly if you prefer less sweetness.
What’s the Best Way to Ensure My Casserole is Perfectly Soaked?
The soaking time is crucial for letting the bread absorb the custard mixture. Covering it with foil helps keep moisture in. For best results, refrigerate the casserole overnight. If you’re short on time, at least let it sit for 30 minutes at room temperature before baking, so the bread has a chance to soak up the flavors.
- Press the bread down gently after pouring the egg mixture to ensure even saturation.
- Keep an eye on it while baking. If you notice it browning too fast, cover it with foil halfway through cooking.
Apple French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of sturdy bread (such as challah, brioche, or French bread), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
For Serving:
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 20 minutes of prep time and then it bakes for 40-50 minutes. If you let it soak overnight in the fridge, add another few minutes for preparation, but trust me, it’s worth it! You’ll have a delicious and comforting breakfast ready to be enjoyed!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray to prevent sticking.
2. Layer the Bread and Apples:
Spread the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Now, take those sliced apples and tuck them in among the bread cubes. Make sure they are spread out nicely for even flavor.
3. Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until everything is fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine and Press:
Pour that lovely egg mixture evenly over the bread and apples. Use a spatula or your hands to press down gently on the bread to make sure it absorbs all the custard goodness.
5. Add Butter:
Dot the top of the casserole with small pieces of the softened butter. This adds a nice richness that you’ll love!
6. Soak:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it soak for at least 30 minutes at room temperature. If you’d like, refrigerate the casserole overnight for the best flavors to develop.
7. Bake:
When ready to bake, remove the foil and put the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 40-50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly. Now it’s time to serve! Slice and dish it out warm, drizzling generously with maple syrup on top.
Enjoy this comforting Apple French Toast Casserole for breakfast or brunch—it’s sure to be a hit at your table!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While challah, brioche, or French bread are recommended for their sturdiness, you can also use sourdough or even stale bread for a delightful texture.
Can I Make This Casserole the Night Before?
Yes, this recipe is perfect for making ahead! Prepare it up to the soaking step, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Just add a few extra minutes to baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm them up in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
What Other Toppings Would Be Good with This Casserole?
In addition to maple syrup, you could top it with whipped cream, powdered sugar, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent treat!