Warm, comforting, and brimming with the flavors of fall, this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleasing breakfast or brunch dish. Layers of fluffy bread cubes are soaked in a rich cinnamon-spiced custard, topped with tender caramelized apples, and baked to golden perfection. This make-ahead dish is ideal for holiday mornings or lazy weekends, filling your kitchen with an irresistible aroma and serving up a cozy slice of nostalgia in every bite. Drizzle with maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness!
Ingredients:
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf of day-old brioche or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
For the Apple Topping:
- 3 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and thinly sliced
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
- Whipped cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the bread cubes evenly in the dish.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour the mixture over the bread cubes, ensuring they are evenly soaked. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
- Cook the Apples: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and slightly caramelized. Set aside to cool slightly.
- Assemble and Bake: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the French toast dish from the refrigerator and allow it to come to room temperature for 10–15 minutes. Spoon the caramelized apples over the top of the bread. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15–20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Serve: Let the bake cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Slice into portions and serve warm with your choice of toppings like maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
Enjoy this delightful dish as the perfect way to start your day!
