Name: Indulgent Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 110 min
Ingredients: 6 cups day-old brioche or challah bread (Key for structure and absorbs custard well; stale is best.); 5 large eggs (Provides richness and structure to the custard base.); 1 cup whole milk (Adds creaminess; swap for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.); 1 cup heavy cream (Ensures a rich flavor; can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter touch.); 1/2 cup brown sugar (Gives sweetness and adds depth; adjust based on the tartness of your apples.); 2 teaspoons vanilla extract (Enhances flavor; consider almond extract for a different twist.); 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon (Infuses warmth and spice; increase for a stronger cinnamon punch.); 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (Complements cinnamon beautifully for that cozy autumn vibe.); 2 green apples peeled and diced (Tartness balances the sweetness; Granny Smiths hold up well.); 2 tablespoons butter (Greases the baking dish and adds flavor during baking.); maple syrup (Drizzle over the finished dish for a sweet touch.); powdered sugar (Dust lightly for an elegant finish.); whipped cream (Adds a delightful creaminess when serving.)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

There’s a certain kind of comfort that comes with a hearty, warm breakfast on a chilly morning. Picture this: the kitchen filled with the irresistible scent of cinnamon and sweet apples as you pull out a golden-brown Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole from the oven. This isn’t just any breakfast dish; it’s a cozy embrace that transforms your mornings into something special.

I first discovered this delightful casserole during a leisurely Sunday brunch with friends. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the way it effortlessly combines fluffy bread soaked in a spiced custard with tart green apples. With just a bit of prep the night before, you can serve a crowd-pleasing breakfast that’s both delicious and stress-free. Say goodbye to boring fast food breakfasts and welcome this flavorful, vegetarian, make-ahead treasure into your repertoire. Get ready to impress your family and elevate your brunch game!

Why is this Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole a must-try?

Comforting, this casserole envelops you in warmth and cozy flavors—perfect for crisp mornings.
Make-Ahead Magic: Prep it the night before for a stress-free breakfast that impresses!
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s a dish everyone will adore, making it ideal for gatherings.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize with your favorite apples or experiment with dairy-free options.
Irresistible Aroma: Your kitchen will be filled with the delightful scent of cinnamon and baked apples.
Elevate your brunch with this delightful casserole and pair it with a side of Apple Crisp Oats for a complete experience!

Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Ingredients

For the Casserole

6 cups day-old brioche or challah bread – Key for structure and absorbs custard well; stale is best for this delicious apple cinnamon French toast casserole.
5 large eggs – Provides richness and structure to the custard base.
1 cup whole milk – Adds creaminess; swap for almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
1 cup heavy cream – Ensures a rich flavor; can be replaced with half-and-half for a lighter touch.
1/2 cup brown sugar – Gives sweetness and adds depth; adjust based on the tartness of your apples.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract – Enhances flavor; consider almond extract for a different twist.
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon – Infuses warmth and spice; increase for a stronger cinnamon punch.
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg – Complements cinnamon beautifully for that cozy autumn vibe.
2 green apples, peeled and diced – Tartness balances the sweetness; Granny Smiths hold up well.
2 tablespoons butter – Greases the baking dish and adds flavor during baking.

Optional Toppings

Maple syrup – Drizzle over the finished dish for a sweet touch.
Powdered sugar – Dust lightly for an elegant finish.
Whipped cream – Adds a delightful creaminess when serving.

How to Make Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Bread Prep: Cut your day-old brioche or challah into 1-inch cubes. If the bread feels too fresh, let it air dry on a baking sheet for about 30 minutes to help it absorb the custard better without getting soggy.
Custard Mixing: In a large bowl, whisk thoroughly together the 5 eggs, 1 cup of whole milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1/2 cup of brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, 1 1/2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg until it’s all smooth and well combined.
Apple Prep: Peel and dice your two green apples, then toss them in a bowl with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a touch of brown sugar to enhance their natural sweetness.
Layering: Grease a 9×13 baking dish with 2 tablespoons of butter. Begin layering by placing half of the bread cubes on the bottom, followed by half of the diced apples. Repeat this with the remaining bread and apples for a beautiful, hearty casserole.
Soaking: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples. Press down gently with your hands to help the bread absorb the custard. Let it rest for 30 minutes at room temperature or refrigerate overnight for more flavor.
Baking: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). To start, cover the casserole with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After that, uncover it and continue baking for another 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Serving: Allow to cool for a few minutes once it’s out of the oven. Serve warm and drizzled with maple syrup, or dusted with powdered sugar for a sweet finish.

Optional: Top with whipped cream for an indulgent treat.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing the Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole in advance is a game changer for busy mornings! You can assemble the entire casserole up to 24 hours ahead of time. To do this, just follow the recipe up to the soaking step, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight. This extra rest allows the flavors to meld beautifully while ensuring the bread absorbs the custard without becoming soggy. Just before baking, uncover it and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, proceed to bake as directed for deliciously rich and comforting results that are just as delightful as when freshly made. Enjoy a stress-free breakfast and impress your family effortlessly!

Storage Tips for Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the delicious flavors and texture.
Freezer: To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months before baking.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat in a 300°F oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Make-Ahead: This casserole is perfect for make-ahead breakfasts; prep it the night before and simply bake in the morning for a hassle-free start to your day.

Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Variations

Feel free to explore these delicious twists to make the recipe your own and elevate your breakfast experience!

Apple Variety: Experiment with Honeycrisp or Fuji apples for added sweetness and flavor depth. Each variety brings its own delight to the dish.
Dairy-Free: Use almond or oat milk in place of whole milk and a plant-based cream alternative for a creamy texture—deliciously inclusive for everyone!
Nutty Crunch: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a delightful crunch that pairs beautifully with the soft bread and tart apples. It’s a tasty surprise in every bite!
Crumb Topping: Mix together oats, brown sugar, and butter for a streusel topping. Sprinkle it on before baking for an extra layer of texture and indulgence.
Spiced Kick: Toss in a pinch of allspice or ginger to the custard for an additional layer of warmth that dances playfully on your palate.
Flavor Boost: Swap vanilla extract for almond extract for a lovely twist that adds a nutty aroma, enhancing every bite of your casserole.
Chocolate Touch: Add chocolate chips or cocoa powder for a decadent twist that transforms your breakfast into a special treat sure to satisfy sweet cravings.
Heat it Up: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick: a surprising yet delightful offset to the sweet and creamy elements.

Expert Tips for Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

Use Stale Bread: Make sure your bread is day-old to help it absorb the custard without becoming soggy. Fresh bread can lead to a mushy casserole.
Customize the Apples: Feel free to mix apple varieties! Honeycrisp or Fuji apples can add a lovely sweetness and texture to the delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole.
Overnight Soak Benefits: Letting the casserole sit overnight allows the flavors to meld and enhances the custard’s richness. It’s worth the wait!
Cover with Foil: Cover the casserole with foil during the first half of baking to prevent burning. This helps it cook evenly while staying moist.
Serving Ideas: Serve warm with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar. A dollop of whipped cream can elevate your brunch experience!

What to Serve with Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole?

Imagine a delightful breakfast spread that perfectly complements the warmth and sweetness of this casserole.

Fresh Fruit Salad: Vibrant berries and citrus add a refreshing burst that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the casserole.
Crispy Bacon or Sausage: A savory element that balances the sweetness, creating a hearty breakfast experience everyone will love.
Maple Syrup Glaze: Enhance the cozy flavors of the casserole with an extra drizzle of syrup. It mirrors the apple seasoning nicely.
Greek Yogurt Parfait: Creamy yogurt layers with granola and honey not only add texture but also a little tang against the sweetness.
Savory Hash Browns: Golden, crunchy potatoes provide a satisfying contrast to the soft, custardy casserole. They’re sure to be a hit!
Hot Chocolate: Serve a warm mug of hot chocolate for a cozy touch that indulges the senses and complements the cinnamon.
Spiced Chai Latte: The aromatic spices in chai enhance the cinnamon flavor of the casserole, creating a harmonious breakfast beverage.
Whipped Cream Topping: A dollop of fresh whipped cream adds an indulgent twist, perfect for elevating your brunch experience.

These pairings will not only elevate your brunch but will also fill your home with cozy, inviting aromas!

Delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe FAQs

What kind of bread should I use for this casserole?
I recommend using day-old brioche or challah bread. This type of bread provides the perfect structure and texture, allowing it to soak up the custard without becoming soggy. If you only have fresh bread, let it air dry for about 30 minutes on a baking sheet to help with absorption.

How should I store the leftovers?
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you’ll maintain its delicious flavors and texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven or microwave.

Can I freeze the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap the casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. It can stay in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to bake it, just thaw it overnight in the fridge, then bake according to the instructions until heated through.

What if my casserole turns out too soggy?
If your casserole is too soggy, it’s likely due to using fresh bread or not allowing enough time for the bread to absorb the custard. Ensure to always use day-old bread and let it soak long enough—ideally overnight—to achieve that perfect balance of texture.

Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes! This recipe is vegetarian-friendly, but if you’re looking to make it dairy-free, you can substitute whole milk and heavy cream with dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk and a plant-based cream. Always consider the dietary preferences of your guests when serving!

How can I enhance the flavor of my casserole?
You can elevate the flavor by experimenting with different apple varieties, like Honeycrisp or Fuji, which add unique sweetness and texture. Additionally, adding chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, before baking can offer a delightful crunchy contrast to the soft casserole.

Print Recipe