Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

A cozy Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is my standby for chilly weekends or fuss-free holiday mornings with family. This recipe layers soft, buttery bread with juicy apples and comforting cinnamon in a simple baked casserole that fills your kitchen with the most welcoming aroma. It is a true crowd pleaser and is easy enough for any home cook to master.

I first made this for Christmas brunch when my little ones were toddlers and it instantly became our all time family favorite for special occasions. Everyone always comes back for seconds.

Ingredients

• Brioche or challah loaf: These breads soak up the custard beautifully and stay tender inside. Choose a loaf that feels soft with a golden crust and minimal added flavors.
• Three large apples: Choose crisp tart varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for the best balance with sweet custard. Look for fruit that feels firm and has no bruises.
• Large eggs: Fresh eggs help the custard set and give richness.
• Whole milk and heavy cream: These create a luscious custard base plus extra creamy texture. Use high quality dairy from your local market if you can.
• Granulated sugar: Sweetens the dish without overpowering the apple flavor. Choose white sugar for clean sweetness.
• Ground cinnamon and nutmeg: These classic spices add warmth and depth. Always use freshly ground if possible for the brightest flavor.
• Pure vanilla extract: Adds fragrant sweet notes to the custard. Always select real vanilla not imitation.
• Salt: Just a small touch to balance the sweetness.
• Light brown sugar and unsalted butter: Combined for a perfectly sweet crunchy topping. Opt for real butter and fresh brown sugar with no hard lumps.
• Optional powdered sugar and maple syrup: Both make serving extra cozy and special. Use pure maple syrup for best results.

Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish:

Grease a 9 by 13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking. This allows the casserole to cut and serve smoothly.

Layer the Bread and Apples:

Cut the brioche or challah into one inch cubes and scatter them evenly in the dish. Distribute diced apples over the top so each bite gets a bit of fruit.

Mix the Custard:

In a large bowl whisk together eggs, milk, cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt. Mix until smooth and all spices are dissolved.

Soak the Bread:

Pour the custard evenly over the bread and apples making sure every piece is moistened. Gently press the mixture down with the back of a spoon so the bread begins to absorb the liquid.

Create the Topping:

In a small bowl combine the brown sugar and cinnamon then stir in melted butter until a thick crumb forms. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the entire top.

Rest for Maximum Flavor:

Let the casserole sit uncovered for fifteen to thirty minutes or cover and refrigerate overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard and develops deeper flavor.

Bake the Casserole:

Place in a preheated oven at 350 degrees and bake for forty to forty five minutes. Bake until the edges are golden and the center is just set. Cool slightly before serving to help it firm up.

Finish and Serve:

Dust with powdered sugar before serving and drizzle with pure maple syrup for extra indulgence. Serve warm straight from the dish for a true comfort breakfast.

My favorite part is always the topping with its golden sweet crunch. My kids love helping sprinkle it on and the smell of apples and cinnamon in the oven always brings us together around the kitchen.

Storage Tips

Let leftovers cool to room temperature first. Wrap the casserole tightly or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slices in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use sturdy country bread or Texas toast if brioche is unavailable. For dairy free make the custard with canned coconut milk and plant based butter. Pears or a mix of berries can be substituted for apples for a fresh twist.

Serving Suggestions

This casserole is wonderful with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vanilla whipped cream on the side. For celebrations serve with crisp bacon or breakfast sausage and fresh fruit salad.

Cultural and Historical Context

French toast casserole is based on the classic pain perdu or lost bread from France which was created as a delicious way to use up stale bread. In my family it is also a way to use up leftover fruit and bring everyone together for a special shared meal.

Seasonal Adaptations

In autumn swap some apples for pears or toss in a handful of cranberries. Try adding a pinch of cardamom or pumpkin spice in winter for warmth. In the summer use peaches or blueberries for a lighter fruit casserole.

Success Stories

My neighbor made this for her book club and called to tell me she got more compliments than any other breakfast dish she ever served. I love when a simple recipe becomes everyone’s favorite table centerpiece.

Freezer Meal Conversion

To make this ahead for the freezer assemble the casserole up to the baking step. Wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap and foil. Store frozen for up to one month. When ready to bake thaw overnight in the fridge then bake as directed adding a few extra minutes if needed.

This dish always turns out warmly spiced and delicious. I hope it becomes one of your family’s favorites too.

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can this be prepared ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and bake fresh in the morning for deeper flavor.

→ What kind of bread works best?

Brioche or challah is ideal for their rich texture, but sturdy white bread is a suitable alternative.

→ How can I add crunch to the topping?

Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts over the brown sugar mixture before baking for added texture.

→ Is it possible to use a different fruit?

Pears are a great substitute for apples, offering a different twist with similar baking times.

→ What optional garnishes enhance the dish?

Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup for extra sweetness and presentation.

→ How do I know when it's fully baked?

The casserole is ready when the center is set and the top is golden brown, usually after 40–45 minutes.