Description

This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a warm and comforting breakfast dish perfect for gatherings or a weekend treat. Cubed brioche bread is soaked in a flavorful custard infused with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, layered with tender diced apples, and baked to golden perfection. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, this casserole offers a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.

Ingredients

Scale

Casserole

6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup brown sugar, divided
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 teaspoons cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed
2 medium apples, peeled and diced
2 tablespoons butter, melted

For Serving

Powdered sugar, for topping
Maple syrup, for serving

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Instructions

Prepare Ingredients: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes, then leave them out at room temperature to dry slightly. Peel and dice the apples into small pieces.
Make Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup of the brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until smooth and well combined.
Assemble Layers: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly. Layer half of the cubed brioche in the dish, followed by half of the diced apples, then sprinkle 1/4 cup of the brown sugar over the top. Repeat these layers with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and brown sugar.
Add Custard and Butter: Pour the egg custard evenly over the layered bread and apples, pressing down gently to help the bread soak up the liquid. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
Chill: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard fully.
Bake Covered: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake it covered with foil for 30 minutes to cook the custard through and soften the bread further.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the cover and continue baking for another 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp around the edges.
Serve: Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes after baking. Dust generously with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup drizzled on top.

Notes

For best results, soak the casserole overnight to maximize flavor and texture.
You can swap the apples for pears or other firm fruit for a different twist.
Using brioche bread gives a rich and tender texture, but challah or French bread can be substituted.
Make sure not to skip letting the bread dry slightly before assembly to prevent sogginess.
This casserole can be made ahead and refrigerated; simply rewarm in the oven before serving.