Golden, custardy, and warmly spiced, Apple French Toast Casserole is the kind of breakfast that makes any day feel like a celebration. Imagine cubes of tender bread soaking up a sweet eggy mixture and mingling with cinnamon-kissed apples, all baked together until puffed and caramelized at the edges. This dish is as delightful on a cozy weekend morning as it is for a holiday brunch, bringing that irresistible aroma of baked apples and cinnamon right into your kitchen. If you’re after a comforting breakfast that’s a crowd-pleaser and wonderfully easy to prepare, this casserole needs to be on your menu.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simplicity is at the heart of a great casserole, and each ingredient in this Apple French Toast Casserole plays a crucial part. From the sturdy bread that forms the backbone to the eggs that bind, and those fresh apples that burst with flavor—every component brings something wonderful to the table.
- Bread: Use a sturdy loaf, like French bread or brioche, cut into cubes; it soaks up the custard without turning mushy.
- Apples: Three crisp apples, sliced thin, add brightness and a juicy bite between the layers of bread.
- Eggs: Six eggs do the magic of creating that luscious, custard-like base.
- Milk: Two cups of milk provide richness—whole milk is best for a decadent texture.
- Cinnamon: A teaspoon adds warmth and a fragrant, cozy note reminiscent of apple pie.
- Brown Sugar: The half cup delivers just enough sweetness and helps create those lovely caramelized bits on top.
How to Make Apple French Toast Casserole
Step 1: Prep the Baking Dish and Layer the Bread & Apples
Start by buttering your favorite casserole dish—this keeps everything from sticking and adds a bit of extra richness. Then, arrange the bread cubes and sliced apples in layers, alternating them so every bite ends up with a good mix of bread and fruit. This effortless layering not only looks beautiful when you serve it but also ensures an even bake and plenty of juicy apple flavor throughout the casserole.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and brown sugar until smooth and well combined. It’s important to whisk thoroughly so the cinnamon distributes evenly, giving every bite that signature warmth. The brown sugar dissolves into the eggs and milk, setting the stage for a custard that’s both sweet and silky.
Step 3: Pour and Soak
Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples, making sure to cover every cube so they all get a good soak. Use the back of a spoon or your hands to gently press the bread down, helping it absorb the liquid. Letting it stand for about 30 minutes (or overnight, if you’re prepping ahead) is key for that luscious, bread pudding-like texture that makes Apple French Toast Casserole so divine.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Slide the casserole dish into a preheated 350°F oven, and let the magic happen for 40 to 45 minutes. The casserole should puff up and turn golden brown, with the apples soft and sweet, and the aroma filling your kitchen to the brim. When a knife inserted in the center comes out clean, you know it’s done—just resist the temptation to dive in immediately and allow it to cool for a few minutes!
How to Serve Apple French Toast Casserole
Garnishes
Finish your Apple French Toast Casserole with a flourish! A dusting of powdered sugar brings a whimsical snow-like look, while a drizzle of maple syrup adds extra sweetness. Sprinkle chopped toasted pecans or walnuts for crunch, or brighten things up with a few fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream on each serving.
Side Dishes
Balance the richness of your casserole with some simple sides. Crisp bacon, breakfast sausage, or a platter of fresh berries all pair beautifully. For a lighter touch, serve with a bright fruit salad or tangy Greek yogurt—a lovely contrast to the warm, sweet casserole.
Creative Ways to Present
You can transform this dish into a brunch showstopper by baking Apple French Toast Casserole in individual ramekins, making perfectly portioned servings. For special occasions, try adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of caramel sauce. You can even make a DIY topping bar and let guests help themselves to various syrups, nuts, and fruits for a personalized breakfast experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Apple French Toast Casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to three days. Simply cover the dish tightly with foil or transfer individual portions to sealed containers. The flavors deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delightful for another breakfast or even a midnight snack.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Apple French Toast Casserole! After baking and cooling completely, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to guard against freezer burn. It will keep for up to two months, making it a smart option for meal planning or prepping ahead for guests.
Reheating
To reheat, cover the casserole with foil and warm it in a 350°F oven until heated through, about 20 minutes. For a crispier top, remove the foil during the last few minutes. Individual servings can also be microwaved for a quick grab-and-go breakfast, though the oven preserves that wonderful texture best.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! While French bread or brioche is recommended for its sturdiness and flavor, challah or sourdough also work well. Thicker breads hold their shape best and provide a lovely, chewy bite in the Apple French Toast Casserole.
What kind of apples are best?
A firm, tart-sweet apple like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp works beautifully, as these types hold up well during baking and balance the sweetness of the custard. Feel free to mix different varieties for a complex flavor profile.
Can I prepare this the night before?
You sure can! In fact, prepping your Apple French Toast Casserole ahead and refrigerating overnight lets the bread fully absorb the custard, making for an even richer and more flavorful result. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for an effortless, delicious breakfast.
How do I prevent the casserole from getting soggy?
Using day-old or slightly stale bread really helps—it absorbs the custard without disintegrating. Make sure to bake until the center is set and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing, which allows everything to firm up nicely.
Can I add extras like nuts or raisins?
Definitely! Stir a handful of raisins, dried cranberries, or chopped nuts into the bread and apple layers for extra texture and bursts of flavor. These additions can make your Apple French Toast Casserole even more special.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a foolproof, heartwarming breakfast, Apple French Toast Casserole checks all the boxes—easy, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser. Give it a try, share it with your favorite people, and enjoy every cozy, cinnamon-scented bite!
Print
Apple French Toast Casserole Recipe
- Total Time: 0 hours
- Yield: 6–8
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Baked French toast layered with spiced apples for a cozy breakfast casserole.
Ingredients
Bread:
- 1 loaf bread, cubed
Apples:
- 3 apples, sliced
Egg Mixture:
- 6 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Layer bread and apples: Place cubed bread and sliced apples in a baking dish.
- Prepare egg mixture: Whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and brown sugar. Pour this mixture over the bread and apples.
- Chill and bake: Chill the assembled casserole for 30 minutes. Then bake at 350°F for 40–45 minutes until golden and set.
- Prep Time: 15m
- Cook Time: 45m
