When it comes to weekend mornings or holiday brunches, few dishes evoke as much warmth and comfort as a baked French toast casserole. Add in the cozy pairing of apples and cinnamon, and you have a dish that not only fills your kitchen with a heavenly aroma but also brings smiles to everyone at the table. Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is more than just breakfast—it’s a centerpiece that transforms an ordinary morning into a memorable gathering.
Why This Dish Stands Out
This casserole is the ultimate combination of soft bread, creamy custard, and sweet, spiced apples. What makes it so special is its perfect balance of textures and flavors. The bread cubes soak up the egg and milk mixture, baking into a custard-like base that’s rich yet light. Slices of fresh apples add a touch of tartness, which plays beautifully against the warm spice of cinnamon and the sweetness of brown sugar.
Unlike traditional stovetop French toast, which requires constant attention and flipping, this casserole comes together in one dish and bakes to perfection. It’s a make-ahead marvel, letting you prepare everything the night before. Come morning, all you need to do is pop it in the oven and let the warmth and aroma of cinnamon and baked apples do the rest.
Ingredients
- Day-old bread (such as French or brioche): 1 loaf (about 12 slices), cubed
- Large eggs: 8
- Whole milk: 2 cups (480ml)
- Granulated sugar: 1/2 cup (100g)
- Brown sugar: 1/4 cup (50g)
- Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon
- Ground cinnamon: 1 1/2 teaspoons
- Ground nutmeg: 1/4 teaspoon
- Apples (peeled, cored, and sliced): 2 medium (about 200g)
- Butter (unsalted, melted): 2 tablespoons
- Powdered sugar (optional): For garnish
- Maple syrup (optional): For serving
Directions
- Prepare the bread layer: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Spread the cubed bread evenly across the dish.
- Whisk the custard mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Combine and layer the apples: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring all pieces are coated. Gently mix in the apple slices, distributing them evenly.
- Chill: Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the refrigerator, uncover, and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Cool and serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup, if desired.
Nutritional Information (per serving) (Approximately 1/8 of casserole)
- Calories: ~270
- Protein: ~9g
- Fat: ~10g
- Carbohydrates: ~38g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Sugar: ~15g
- Sodium: ~200mg
A Breakfast Staple for All Occasions
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is incredibly versatile. It’s a reliable go-to for holiday mornings when you have guests to feed and need a dish that’s both elegant and satisfying. It’s also a thoughtful choice for celebrating special occasions like birthdays, Mother’s Day, or even a cozy Sunday brunch. The beauty of this recipe is that it feels indulgent enough for a festive gathering, yet it’s simple enough to make on a regular weekend morning.
Seasonal Appeal: An Autumn Classic
While this casserole is welcome on the table year-round, it’s especially beloved during autumn. Apples and cinnamon are quintessential fall flavors, and the dish pairs perfectly with a crisp morning and a steaming cup of coffee or tea. It’s an easy way to incorporate the bounty of the apple season into a breakfast that feels both festive and familiar. But don’t limit it to just fall—this recipe’s charm transcends seasons, offering comfort and warmth whenever you’re in the mood for a touch of sweetness.
Customizing Your French Toast Casserole
One of the most appealing aspects of this dish is its flexibility. You can tailor it to suit your taste or the preferences of your guests. Want a bit of crunch? Add a handful of chopped nuts, like pecans or walnuts, to the mix. Prefer a touch of indulgence? Drizzle caramel sauce over the top before serving. For a healthier spin, you can reduce the sugar and let the natural sweetness of the apples shine through.
You can also experiment with different types of bread to create unique textures and flavors. While a classic French or brioche bread is the standard, whole-grain or cinnamon-raisin bread can add an extra layer of depth. The custard can be enriched with a splash of heavy cream for an even silkier texture, or brightened with a hint of orange zest to complement the apple-cinnamon pairing.
FAQs About Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be made ahead. Prepare the casserole the night before, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply bake it fresh for a stress-free brunch.
What’s the best type of bread to use?
A slightly stale, hearty bread works best, as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy. Brioche, challah, or even a thick French bread loaf are excellent choices. If your bread is fresh, you can dry it out slightly by toasting it briefly in the oven before assembling the casserole.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, you can substitute almond milk, oat milk, or another dairy-free milk for the whole milk. Use a plant-based butter alternative, and if the recipe calls for cream, you can try coconut cream or a non-dairy yogurt.
What apples work best in this casserole?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold up well during baking and provide a nice contrast to the soft bread and custard. If you prefer a sweeter dish, choose a variety like Gala or Golden Delicious.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze individual portions of the baked casserole. Once cooled, wrap portions tightly in plastic wrap, then store them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What toppings go well with this casserole?
While the casserole is delightful on its own, toppings can elevate it further. A dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence. Fresh berries or a spoonful of apple compote can bring extra brightness and flavor.
Conclusion: A Sweet Comfort in Every Bite
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is more than a recipe—it’s an invitation to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of life. It’s a dish that brings people together, encourages seconds (and thirds), and leaves everyone satisfied. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday brunch, a special occasion, or just to add a little sweetness to your morning routine, this casserole is always a good idea.
By combining classic breakfast elements with warm, autumn-inspired flavors, this casserole delivers a taste that’s both timeless and fresh. It’s the kind of recipe you’ll turn to again and again, knowing it will always delight your family, impress your guests, and make any morning feel special.
Print
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
Description
Wake up to the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and vanilla with this Easy Baked French Toast Casserole. Made with soft bread cubes soaked in a creamy custard and topped with a buttery brown sugar cinnamon topping, it’s the perfect breakfast for any occasion. Prep it the night before for a stress-free morning treat that everyone will love.
Ingredients
For the French Toast Base
- 1 loaf of bread (brioche or challah recommended)
- 8 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ½ tablespoon sugar (optional)
For the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Optional Toppings
- Sifted powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh fruit (berries, bananas, etc.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Spray a 9×13-inch glass baking dish liberally with non-stick cooking spray.
- Prepare the Bread:
- Cut or tear the loaf of bread into small cubes or pieces.
- Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
- Make the Custard Mixture:
- In another large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, orange juice, and sugar (if using) until fully combined.
- Combine Bread and Custard:
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes.
- Gently fold the bread cubes to ensure they are evenly coated with the custard.
- Transfer to Baking Dish:
- Pour the coated bread into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
- Preheat the Oven:
- When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F.
- Make the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping:
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Add Topping and Bake:
- Spoon the topping mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy to your liking.
- Cool and Serve:
- Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
- Top with powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh fruit, if desired, and enjoy!
Notes
- Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread works best as it absorbs the custard without becoming soggy.
- Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk and use a dairy-free butter alternative for the topping.
- Add Texture: Mix in chopped nuts, dried fruit, or chocolate chips for extra flavor.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
- Freezing Option: Assemble the casserole without the topping, freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight and bake as directed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
