Description
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a deliciously comforting breakfast or brunch dish featuring tender brioche bread cubes soaked in a spiced custard, layered with diced apples and brown sugar, then baked until golden and bubbly. Finished with a dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, it combines warm flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg with a soft, custardy texture perfect for family gatherings or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (from the divided 1/2 cup)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
French Toast Layers
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (remaining from the divided 1/2 cup)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
For Serving
- Powdered sugar, for topping
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Bread and Apples: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and set them out to dry slightly to absorb the custard better. Peel and dice the apples into small pieces.
- Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, 1/4 cup brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined and smooth.
- Layer Ingredients: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange half of the bread cubes evenly in the dish, then sprinkle half of the diced apples over the bread. Sprinkle 1/4 cup brown sugar on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and brown sugar.
- Add Custard and Butter: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples, pressing down gently to ensure the bread soaks up the custard. Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the custard fully.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake covered for 30 minutes. Then, remove the cover and bake for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup for a sweet finish.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old brioche or let fresh bread dry out slightly before assembling.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before to save morning time.
- You can substitute apples with pears or other firm fruits.
- Use a mix of brown and granulated sugar to enhance the caramel flavor.
- Leftovers can be stored covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated.
