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Make-Ahead Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole

A close-up of a square slice of baked Apple Cinnamon French Toast on a white plate.
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Prepare this easy apple cinnamon French toast bake the night before for a simple, comforting brunch the next morning. Use brioche bread for the best texture.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 loaf (1 pound) brioche or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 medium apples (like Honeycrisp or Gala), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional, for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons melted butter (for topping)
  • 1/4 cup caramel sauce (optional, for serving)

Instructions

  1. Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. Arrange the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  3. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes. Gently press the bread down to soak up the liquid.
  4. Arrange the sliced apples over the top of the bread mixture.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  6. When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the chopped pecans with the melted butter. Sprinkle this mixture over the top of the casserole.
  8. Bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and the center is set.
  9. Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Drizzle with caramel sauce if desired.

Notes

  • Brioche bread works best because its high fat content keeps the toast moist during the overnight soak and baking process.
  • For a festive garnish, you can add a simple streusel topping made from flour, sugar, and butter before baking.
  • If you prefer individual slices over a casserole, you can use thick slices of bread and sauté the apples separately to use as a warm topping.
  • To reheat leftovers, microwave individual portions for 30-60 seconds or bake in a 350 degree oven for 10 minutes.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://yumdrizzle.com/apple-cinnamon-french-toast/