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Overnight Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast Casserole

Overnight Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast Casserole

Evelyn
A make-ahead breakfast casserole featuring layers of cinnamon-spiced bread, tender apple chunks, and a rich vanilla custard. Perfect for holiday mornings and family brunches.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Refrigeration Time 8 hours
Total Time 8 hours 30 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 10 servings
Calories 425 kcal

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Plastic wrap

Ingredients
  

  • 1 large loaf challah or brioche bread cut into 1-inch cubes (12-14 cups)
  • 3 medium Granny Smith apples peeled and diced
  • 8 large eggs room temperature
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 3/4 cup granulated sugar divided
  • 2 tablespoons pure vanilla extract
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon plus extra for topping
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted and cooled
  • 1/2 cup packed brown sugar for topping
  • 1/2 cup chopped pecans optional
  • powdered sugar for dusting
  • maple syrup for serving

Instructions
 

  • Generously butter a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the bread cubes in the bottom of the dish.
  • Layer the diced apples evenly over the bread, then top with the remaining bread cubes.
  • In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, half the granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
  • Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples. Press down gently with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.
  • Cover tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight.
  • When ready to bake, preheat oven to 350°F. Remove casserole from refrigerator.
  • In a small bowl, mix the remaining granulated sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, and pecans. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  • Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set. A knife inserted in the middle should come out mostly clean.
  • Let cool for 10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm with maple syrup.

Notes

  • Use day-old bread for best results. Fresh bread can make the casserole too dense.
  • For a dairy-free version, substitute with almond milk and coconut cream.
  • Casserole can be assembled and refrigerated up to 24 hours before baking.
  • Leftovers keep covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 60-90 seconds.
Keyword overnight french toast casserole