Imagine waking up to the aroma of apples, cinnamon, and warm bread wafting through your home. This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is the ultimate comfort breakfast—perfect for cozy mornings or special occasions. It's delicious, easy to make, and sure to please the whole family.
Ingredients
For a perfect Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole, you'll need:
- 1 loaf of French or brioche bread, sliced into 1-inch cubes
- 4 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work great)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Optional toppings: maple syrup, powdered sugar, whipped cream
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Bread and Apples
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Arrange the bread cubes in a greased 9x13-inch baking dish.
- Spread the apple slices evenly over the bread cubes.
2. Make the Custard Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until well combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole
- Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Gently press down the bread to help it absorb the custard.
4. Add the Butter
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Tips for Customization
- Bread Choices: Try using challah, sourdough, or even croissants for different textures and flavors.
- Extra Spices: Add a pinch of cloves or allspice for a more complex flavor profile.
- Nuts: Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts on top before baking for added crunch.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 1-2 minutes or the entire casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out.
Serving Suggestions and Garnishes
- Serve warm, topped with a drizzle of maple syrup.
- Sprinkle powdered sugar over the top for an elegant touch.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Conclusion
This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a surefire way to elevate your breakfast game. We hope you enjoy making and eating it as much as we do! Feel free to share your experiences and any modifications you make. Happy cooking!
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Ready to start? Gather your ingredients and let's bake this delicious casserole together. Don't forget to tag us in your breakfast creations! 🍎🍞🥞
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