Description
A delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole featuring sweet brioche bread soaked in a creamy cinnamon-spiced custard, layered with tender diced apples, baked to golden perfection, and topped with powdered sugar and maple syrup. Perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch gathering.
Ingredients
Scale
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for custard)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
Main
- 1 loaf (14 oz) brioche bread, cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (for layering)
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Topping & Serving
- Powdered sugar, for dusting
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Bread and Apples: Cut the brioche loaf into 1-inch cubes and allow it to dry slightly by letting it sit out. 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.
- Assemble Casserole: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half of the bread cubes evenly, then spread half of the diced apples over the bread. Sprinkle half of the 1/4 cup brown sugar over the apples. Repeat the layering with the remaining bread, apples, and brown sugar.
- Add Custard and Butter: Pour the prepared custard evenly over the layered ingredients, pressing gently to ensure the bread absorbs the custard. Drizzle the melted butter evenly on top.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or preferably overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak the custard thoroughly.
- Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake covered with foil for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil 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. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle generously with maple syrup before serving.
Notes
- For best results, use brioche bread as it absorbs the custard well and adds richness.
- The casserole can be prepared the night before to save time in the morning.
- To add extra texture, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- Adjust cinnamon and nutmeg based on your spice preference.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
