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–+ servings
Lucy Lucy

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

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.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 55 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Method Notes

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.

Method
 

Prepare the Baking Dish:
  1. Spray a 9×13-inch glass baking dish liberally with non-stick cooking spray.
Prepare the Bread:
  1. Cut or tear the loaf of bread into small cubes or pieces.
  2. Place the bread cubes in a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Make the Custard Mixture:
  1. 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:
  1. Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes.
  2. Gently fold the bread cubes to ensure they are evenly coated with the custard.
Transfer to Baking Dish:
  1. Pour the coated bread into the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
  2. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for the best results.
Preheat the Oven:
  1. When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and preheat your oven to 375°F.
Make the Brown Sugar Cinnamon Topping:
  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the melted butter, brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
Add Topping and Bake:
  1. Spoon the topping mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish.
  2. Bake uncovered for 35–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy to your liking.
Cool and Serve:
  1. Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 10 minutes.
  2. 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.

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