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Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

A delightful breakfast casserole featuring soft, pillowy bread soaked in a rich custard infused with vanilla, cinnamon, and baked apples, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 10 servings
Course: Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 330
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 8 cups brioche or challah bread, cubed Day-old bread works best
  • 5 large eggs Can be replaced with flaxseed meal for a vegan option
  • 2 cups whole milk Use non-dairy milk for a dairy-free option
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 large apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) Choose a mix for balanced flavor
  • 2 tablespoons butter Can be replaced with vegan butter
  • to taste Maple syrup, for serving (optional) Dust with powdered sugar if desired

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Cube the bread into 1-inch pieces. If it’s fresh, toast it in a 300°F oven for 10 minutes to dry it slightly.
  2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the diced apples and sauté for 5–7 minutes. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar, then remove from heat.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until well combined.
  4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the bread cubes on the bottom, followed by half of the sautéed apples. Repeat with the rest.
  5. Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples. Gently press the bread down to soak up the liquid.
  6. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.
Baking
  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes, tenting with foil if the top browns too quickly.
  2. Let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.