If you’re craving a cozy, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug, you’ve got to try this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of soft, custardy brioche soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard and studded with tender, juicy apples. Each bite is a delightful balance of sweet and spice, with a gorgeous golden crust that’s as irresistible as it sounds. Whether it’s a weekend brunch or a holiday gathering, this casserole will quickly become your go-to morning treat.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is your first step to deliciousness. Each component plays a vital role in creating the perfect flavor, texture, and appearance of this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe.
- 6 large eggs: The heart of the custard, binding everything together with richness and structure.
- 2 cups whole milk: Adds creaminess, keeping the casserole tender and silky inside.
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar: Sweetens the custard without overpowering the warm spices.
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, divided: Brings deep, caramel notes and helps create that irresistible golden topping.
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Infuses a fragrant sweetness that elevates every bite.
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon: The signature spice that gives this casserole its cozy, comforting flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg: Adds a subtle warmth and complexity to the spice blend.
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed: The star starch—soft yet sturdy, perfect for soaking up the custard.
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced: Provide bursts of fresh, juicy sweetness scattered throughout.
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted: Drizzled on top to create a rich, slightly crispy crust.
- Powdered sugar, for topping: Adds a pretty, snowy finish with just a hint of sweetness.
- Maple syrup, for serving: The classic companion that brings everything together with its luscious, syrupy goodness.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep the Bread and Apples
Start by cutting your brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes; letting it sit out for a little helps it absorb the custard better without becoming soggy. Meanwhile, peel and dice your apples to small, tender pieces that will soften nicely while baking but still maintain their shape and bite.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, half of the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Whisk until everything is fully blended, and you have a smooth, fragrant custard base that promises lots of cozy flavor.
Step 3: Assemble the Casserole Layers
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish generously to prevent sticking. Create a layer with half of the cubed bread, then sprinkle half of the diced apples and a quarter cup of brown sugar over it. Repeat these layers one more time to ensure every bite is perfectly balanced with bread, apple, and sweetness.
Step 4: Pour Custard and Add Butter
Pour your custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples, gently pressing down to help the bread soak up all that delicious goodness. Finish by drizzling the melted butter on top—it will help develop that irresistible golden crust while baking.
Step 5: Chill for Maximum Flavor
Cover the casserole dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or better yet, overnight. This step is key to allowing the flavors to meld and the bread to fully absorb the custard so your casserole is rich and creamy.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered for 30 minutes to start setting the custard, then remove the cover and bake an additional 20–25 minutes until the top is beautifully golden and slightly crisp around the edges.
Step 7: Final Touches
Let your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before dusting it with powdered sugar and serving it with a generous drizzle of maple syrup. This resting time helps everything settle perfectly so you can enjoy those lovely layers with every forkful.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkling powdered sugar over this casserole is such a charming touch that instantly ups the visual appeal and adds a delicate sweetness. You can also add a few thin apple slices on top or even a pinch of cinnamon for a warm, inviting aroma.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salads, crispy bacon, or savory breakfast sausages to create a balanced meal. A simple glass of freshly brewed coffee or hot tea complements the sweet, spiced flavors beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a brunch crowd, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or small dishes for a personalized touch. You can also top each serving with whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an indulgent twist that’s perfect for special mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It keeps its flavor and texture well, making for an easy breakfast or snack the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the fully assembled, unbaked casserole. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as instructed for a fresh-from-the-oven breakfast anytime.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual servings until warm. The oven method helps maintain that lovely crust texture, while the microwave is perfect for speed.
FAQs
Can I use a different bread instead of brioche?
Absolutely! Brioche is ideal because of its rich, buttery texture, but challah, French bread, or even thick sandwich bread will work nicely. Just make sure it’s slightly stale or dried out so it soaks up the custard without falling apart.
Can I prepare this casserole the same day I want to bake it?
Yes, you can bake it right after assembling, but for the best flavor and texture, it’s recommended to refrigerate it for at least 2 hours or overnight so the bread absorbs the custard fully.
How do I know when the casserole is fully cooked?
Look for a golden-brown top and edges, and make sure the custard is set—not liquidy—in the center. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean with just a few moist crumbs.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
You can substitute the whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond, oat, or soy, but keep in mind this may slightly change the texture and richness. Also, opt for dairy-free butter or oil for drizzling on top.
What’s the best way to add more spice to the recipe?
If you love a spicier kick, try increasing the cinnamon slightly or adding a pinch of ground cloves or ginger for a warm, festive twist that plays beautifully with the apples.
Final Thoughts
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe is truly a breakfast game-changer—a heartfelt way to start your day with flavors that remind you of cozy mornings and loving kitchen moments. Once you try it, you’ll understand why it’s one of those dishes that everyone keeps asking for. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and treat yourself and your loved ones to this deliciously comforting classic.
Print
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 55 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 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 warm, comforting breakfast dish perfect for a cozy morning. It combines soft brioche bread cubes with sweet diced apples, infused with cinnamon and nutmeg, soaked in a rich custard, and baked to golden perfection. Topped with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup, it’s a delightful treat that serves 12 and is great for holiday brunches or weekend gatherings.
Ingredients
Casserole
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (plus additional 1/4 cup for layering)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Topping
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and allow it to sit out for a short time to dry slightly. Peel and dice the apples into small pieces for layering.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined and smooth.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Layer half of the brioche cubes evenly on the bottom, then sprinkle half of the diced apples and 1/4 cup brown sugar over the bread. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and the remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar.
- Soak Bread: Pour the prepared custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples, pressing gently to ensure the bread fully absorbs the custard. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Refrigerate: Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, to allow the bread to soak fully in the custard flavors.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, uncover it, and bake it covered with foil for 30 minutes. Then uncover and continue baking 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 the surface with powdered sugar and drizzle generously with maple syrup before slicing and serving warm.
Notes
- Allowing the brioche bread to dry slightly helps it absorb the custard better without becoming too soggy.
- The casserole can be assembled the night before and baked fresh in the morning for convenience.
- Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Fuji for the best texture after baking.
- Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg to your taste preference.
- Serve with additional maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream if desired.
