Cozy Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe

Introduction

There’s something irresistibly cozy about a warm dish of Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole. It’s like wrapping up in your favorite blanket on a crisp fall morning—but in breakfast form. This dish has it all: sweet, tender apples, soft and fluffy bread, and just the right hit of cinnamon to wake up your taste buds. Whether you’re prepping a special weekend breakfast or need a crowd-pleasing brunch dish for guests, this recipe fits the bill. Best part? You can make it ahead! So, when brunch time rolls around, you’ll look like a kitchen superstar with minimal morning effort.

If you’re looking for a breakfast that feels like a warm hug, and fills your kitchen with the smell of apples and cinnamon, this is your go-to!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Make-Ahead Magic: You can prep this casserole the night before for stress-free mornings.
• Perfect for Entertaining: It’s a fantastic brunch option that serves a crowd without any last-minute chaos.
• Comforting Flavors: Apples + cinnamon = comfort food done right. Add a drizzle of maple syrup for that extra yum factor.

Ingredients Breakdown

• Bread: Stale or day-old bread works best for French toast, as it’ll soak up all that custardy goodness without turning mushy. Brioche or challah are my top picks for some added richness.
• Apples: Go for sweet-tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. They hold up well when baked and add the perfect balance of sweetness.
• Cinnamon: You’ll need a good amount to infuse the dish with warm, spicy coziness. Don’t be shy here!
• Egg Mixture: Eggs, milk, and a hint of vanilla create that dreamy custard that soaks into the bread, making each bite tender and rich.
• Maple Syrup: To finish off your casserole, nothing beats a drizzle of pure maple syrup. It adds that extra “wow” to every bite.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Start by prepping your ingredients. If your bread isn’t day-old, you can quickly dry it out by cutting it into cubes and spreading it on a baking sheet. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to get rid of the excess moisture.

Step 2: While your bread is toasting, peel and chop your apples into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry too much about uniformity—this dish is forgiving!

Step 3: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Set aside.

Step 4: Generously butter a 9×13-inch baking dish. Add your bread cubes to the dish along with the chopped apples, spreading them out evenly.

Step 5: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and apples, making sure everything gets a good soak. Use the back of a spoon to gently press the bread down, helping it absorb the liquid.

Step 6: (Optional but highly recommended) Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes—or overnight if you’re prepping in advance.

Step 7: When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, and then pop it in the oven.

Step 8: Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the custard is set. If the top starts browning too quickly, you can cover it loosely with foil.

Step 9: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, and serve alongside your favorite breakfast accompaniments.

Chef’s Tips and Tricks

• If your bread is still fresh, toast it in the oven for a few minutes to dry it out. This will help it absorb the egg mixture better.
• Let the casserole sit after pouring the egg mixture for at least 30 minutes. This ensures the bread soaks up all the flavorful custard.
• Use room-temperature eggs and milk for the custard. Cold ingredients can sometimes affect the baking time and overall texture.

Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions

• Nutty Additions: Add some chopped pecans or walnuts for a little crunch. They bake up beautifully and add nice texture to the dish.
• Sweeter Spin: If you want a little more indulgence, toss the apples in a bit of sugar and cinnamon before layering them with the bread. I won’t tell!
• Gluten-Free: Swap out the bread for a gluten-free option, and you’re good to go. The custard and apples work just as well with gluten-free bread.

FAQs

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! This is one of those dishes that’s even better when prepped the night before. Assemble the casserole and let it soak overnight in the fridge. In the morning, just pop it in the oven, and you’re ready to go!

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave, or place the casserole back in the oven at 300°F until warmed through.

Can I freeze this French toast casserole?

Yes! To freeze, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it. Cover tightly with foil, then plastic wrap, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake as directed.

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