Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a deliciously comforting breakfast dish featuring layers of brioche bread and diced apples soaked in a spiced custard. Baked to golden perfection and topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup, it’s perfect for a cozy morning or holiday brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Base and Toppings
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (divided)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- Powdered sugar, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the bread and apples: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and leave it out to dry slightly for better custard absorption. Peel and dice the apples into small pieces to distribute evenly.
- Make the custard mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until fully combined and smooth.
- Layer ingredients in baking dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. Layer half of the brioche cubes evenly in the dish, then half of the diced apples. Sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar evenly over the layer. Repeat with the remaining bread cubes and apples, and add the remaining brown sugar on top.
- Pour custard and add butter: Pour the prepared custard over the layered bread and apples, pressing gently to ensure the bread soaks up the custard. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top to enhance browning and flavor.
- Chill the casserole: Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to absorb the custard for a moist and rich texture.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes, then remove the cover and bake for an additional 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old brioche or let fresh bread dry out slightly to prevent sogginess.
- Feel free to substitute apples with pears or berries for a flavor variation.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before to save morning time.
- Use whole milk for a creamier custard; low-fat milk can be substituted but may affect richness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
