If you’re looking for a cozy, show-stopping breakfast that fills your kitchen with the warm aroma of spices and sweet apples, the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe is your new best friend. This casserole transforms classic French toast into an easy-to-make, crowd-pleasing dish featuring tender brioche soaked in a rich custard, layered with juicy apples and just the right hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s the ultimate comfort breakfast that’s perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special occasions when you want to impress with minimal stress but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps things delightfully simple, with everyday ingredients that each play a vital role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. From the velvety custard base to the sweet and tender apples, every component comes together to make this dish unforgettable.
- 6 large eggs: They bind the custard together, giving the casserole a creamy, rich texture that soaks perfectly into the bread.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds moisture and creaminess, ensuring the custard is silky and smooth.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Brings just enough sweetness without overpowering the natural apple flavor.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, divided: Adds deep, molasses-like sweetness and helps caramelize the apples and top of the casserole.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Provides a warm, inviting aroma that enhances every bite.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The star spice that brings cozy warmth and pairs beautifully with apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds subtle depth and a hint of earthiness to the custard.
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed: Soft yet sturdy, brioche soaks up the custard while maintaining a tender crumb.
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced: Offer bursts of fresh, fruity sweetness and slight tartness that balances the richness.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Drizzled on top, it creates a golden, slightly crispy crust when baked.
- Powdered sugar, for topping: A light dusting adds a pretty touch and a little extra sweetness.
- Maple syrup, for serving: Classic topping that complements the cinnamon and apples perfectly.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Apples
Begin by cutting your brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and letting them sit out for a bit to dry slightly; this step helps the bread absorb the custard without turning soggy. While the bread rests, peel and dice your apples into bite-sized pieces, ready to layer for that lovely texture and sweetness.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, half of the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. This custard mixture is the heart of the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe that melds all the flavors and creates that luscious soak for the bread.
Step 3: Layer Your Ingredients in the Baking Dish
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish well to prevent sticking. Then create a beautiful layered effect by adding half of the bread cubes, followed by half of the diced apples, and sprinkling on 1/4 cup of the brown sugar. Repeat this layering to build up the casserole, ensuring every bite gets that balance of apple and bread.
Step 4: Pour Custard and Add Butter
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples. Use a spatula or your hands to press gently, helping the bread soak up as much of the custard as possible. Finally, drizzle the melted butter over the top to help achieve a golden and slightly crisp finish once baked.
Step 5: Refrigerate Before Baking
Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, though overnight is ideal. This resting time allows the custard to fully permeate the bread, resulting in the creamiest texture possible, making the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe a perfect dish to prepare ahead.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden and Bubbling
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes to gently cook the custard through. Then remove the cover and bake an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and slightly crisp, signaling that it’s time to indulge in this comforting masterpiece.
Step 7: Cool and Garnish
Allow the casserole to cool for 5 to 10 minutes once out of the oven—this makes it easier to slice and lets the flavors settle. Just before serving, dust it lightly with powdered sugar and drizzle generously with maple syrup for that perfect sweet finish.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to dress up your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe with some fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped toasted pecans or a dollop of whipped cream. These additions not only add texture but elevate the visual appeal making every serving look like a breakfast feast.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with light sides like fresh fruit salad or a bright green apple chutney that adds a refreshing contrast. For a heartier brunch, serve with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a combo everyone will love.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the casserole in individual ramekins for each guest, sprinkled with a little extra cinnamon sugar on top before baking for extra crunch. Another charming idea is layering the casserole in a clear glass trifle dish so the layers of apples, bread, and custard can be admired before digging in.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to 3 days and makes for an easy, ready-to-reheat breakfast or snack.
Freezing
If you want to freeze portions, let the casserole cool completely, then wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil or place in freezer-safe containers. It’s best to freeze in individual portions so you can thaw only what you need. The casserole can last up to 2 months in the freezer.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 325°F for about 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1 to 2 minutes until warmed through. Adding a touch of butter or syrup before reheating keeps it moist and fully delicious.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?
Absolutely! While brioche is preferred for its rich texture and flavor, you can substitute challah, Texas toast, or even day-old French bread. The key is to use bread that soaks well without turning overly mushy.
Do I have to peel the apples?
Peeling the apples is recommended for a smoother texture and to prevent the skin from toughening during baking, but if you love added fiber and color, leaving the skin on works fine as well.
Can I prepare this casserole the morning of serving instead of overnight?
Yes, allowing it to soak for at least 2 hours in the fridge will still yield great results, though overnight soaking helps maximize flavor and texture.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
This recipe relies on bread, so for gluten-free diets, you can use a gluten-free bread alternative. Just be sure it has a sturdy texture to absorb the custard properly.
Can this casserole be made dairy-free?
Definitely! Swap whole milk for almond, oat, or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter substitute. The dish will still be deliciously comforting and flavorful.
Final Thoughts
There’s nothing quite like the cozy, sweet delight of the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe to start your day with a smile. Whether for a festive brunch or a weekend treat, this dish brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special and heartwarming. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a beloved staple in your breakfast rotation!
Print
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus at least 2 hours refrigeration
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast dish combining tender brioche bread cubes, warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg, and sweet diced apples. Baked to golden perfection and served with powdered sugar and maple syrup, it’s an easy make-ahead recipe perfect for holiday mornings or weekend brunches.
Ingredients
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (part of 1/2 cup divided)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Casserole
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (part of 1/2 cup divided)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Bread and Apples: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and allow it to sit out to dry slightly. 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: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the bread cubes, followed by half of the diced apples, and sprinkle with 1/4 cup brown sugar. Repeat with the remaining bread, apples, and brown sugar.
- Add Custard and Butter: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples, pressing gently to help soak the bread. Drizzle the melted butter on top for a rich finish.
- Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the bread to absorb the custard thoroughly.
- Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the covered casserole for 30 minutes. Then uncover and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup before serving to add sweetness and enhance flavor.
Notes
- For best texture, allow the bread cubes to dry slightly by leaving them out for a few hours or overnight.
- You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate overnight for convenience and better flavor absorption.
- Feel free to substitute brioche with challah or thick-cut white bread if preferred.
- For a dairy-free option, use almond milk instead of whole milk and a dairy-free butter substitute.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking for extra crunch.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator and reheat gently in the oven or microwave.
