Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake is a cozy and delicious breakfast dish perfect for cool mornings. Soft brioche bread soaked in a cinnamon-spiced custard is layered with tender, caramelized apples for a comforting twist on classic French toast.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf brioche bread (about 16 ounces), cut into cubes
• 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
• 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
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Instructions

1. Step 1: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cubed brioche evenly inside.
2. Step 2: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons butter. Add sliced apples, 1/4 cup brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened. Remove from heat.
3. Step 3: Spread the warm apple mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
4. Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 eggs, 2 cups milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until smooth.
5. Step 5: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples. Press the bread gently so it absorbs the liquid.
6. Step 6: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight.
7. Step 7: Preheat oven to 350°F. Bake uncovered for 45–50 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Step 8: Cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Tips & Variations

• For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
• Use tart apples like Granny Smith for a nice balance against the sweetness.
• Swap brioche for challah or French bread if you prefer a sturdier texture.
• Prepare the bake the night before to save time in the morning and improve flavor absorption.

Storage

Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual slices in the microwave for 30–60 seconds or warm in a 325°F oven for 10 minutes until heated through. The bake is not recommended for freezing as the texture may change.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, challah, French bread, or even a sturdy sandwich bread can be used in place of brioche. Just make sure to cut it into cubes and slightly stale bread works best to absorb the custard.

Do I have to refrigerate overnight?

While at least one hour in the refrigerator is necessary for the custard to soak, refrigerating overnight enhances flavor and results in a softer texture inside.

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake Recipe

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★★★★★

4.8 from 50 reviews

This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake is a cozy and delicious breakfast casserole featuring soft brioche bread cubes layered with a warm apple cinnamon mixture and soaked in a rich custard. Baked until golden and served warm, it’s perfect for a comforting morning meal or special brunch.

• Author: Hannah
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes plus chilling time
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Category: Breakfast
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Bread and Fruit

• 1 loaf brioche bread (about 16 ounces), cut into cubes
• 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced

Custard

• 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

Other

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

1. Prepare the Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish and spread the cubed brioche bread evenly inside to form the base of the casserole.
2. Cook the Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Add the sliced apples, 1/4 cup of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples are slightly softened and caramelized. Remove from heat.
3. Layer Apples Over Bread: Spread the warm apple and cinnamon mixture evenly over the cubed brioche bread in the baking dish.
4. Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together 6 large eggs, 2 cups whole milk, 1/2 cup heavy cream, 1/4 cup brown sugar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon vanilla extract, and 1/4 teaspoon salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
5. Soak the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples in the baking dish. Gently press the bread cubes down so they absorb the custard thoroughly.
6. Chill: Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard fully, which ensures a soft and flavorful bake.
7. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and bake the casserole uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until the center is set and the top is golden brown.
8. Cool and Serve: Let the French toast bake cool for about 10 minutes before slicing and serving warm for a perfect breakfast or brunch dish.

Notes

• Do not skip the resting time. Allowing the bread to fully absorb the custard ensures a soft interior and prevents dry spots in the finished bake.
• You can prepare the bake the night before and refrigerate overnight for better flavor and convenience.
• Use firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for best texture after cooking.
• For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or substituting half the milk with half-and-half.

Keywords: Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake, breakfast casserole, baked French toast, brioche French toast, apple cinnamon breakfast, brunch recipe