Description
A comforting Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake that combines tender brioche bread, sweet cinnamon-spiced apples, and a creamy custard base. This make-ahead breakfast casserole is baked until golden and perfect for holiday brunches or weekend mornings.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Fruit
- 1 loaf brioche bread (about 16 ounces), cut into cubes
- 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, divided
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Cooking Apples
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish and bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish thoroughly then spread the cubed brioche bread evenly inside to create an even layer.
- Cook the apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add sliced apples, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are slightly softened but still hold their shape. Remove from heat.
- Assemble apple layer: Spread the warm apple mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
- Make the custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, remaining 1/4 cup brown sugar, granulated sugar, remaining 1 teaspoon cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Combine custard and bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples. Press the bread gently into the custard so it absorbs the liquid evenly.
- Chill: Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or preferably overnight to allow the custard to soak into the bread fully.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 45–50 minutes until the custard is set in the center and the top is golden brown.
- Cool and serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 10 minutes before slicing into portions and serving warm.
Notes
- This bake can be prepared the night before for a convenient morning meal.
- Use brioche or challah bread for best texture and richness.
- Adjust cinnamon to taste for a milder or spicier flavor.
- Try adding chopped nuts or raisins for extra texture.
- Serve with maple syrup or powdered sugar for added sweetness.
