Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake
This baked casserole combines slices of bread soaked in a custard infused with cinnamon and vanilla, layered with caramelized apples, then baked until golden and set. The final dish features crispy edges with a soft, tender interior, topped with a warm, fragrant cinnamon apple topping that creates a cozy, comforting breakfast.
Equipment
- 9x13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting Board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick slices of bread day-old bread works best
- 3 large eggs beaten
- 1 1/2 cups milk whole or 2% preferred
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 2 medium apples peeled, cored, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter for caramelizing apples
- 3 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease the baking dish.
- Arrange the slices of bread in the baking dish in a single layer, slightly overlapping if needed.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and combined.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread slices, making sure all pieces are soaked through. Let sit for 10-15 minutes so the bread absorbs the mixture.
- While the bread soaks, melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, and a pinch of cinnamon.
- Cook the apples, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and the mixture thickens into a caramel sauce, about 8-10 minutes. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.
- Once the apples are ready, evenly distribute them over the soaked bread inside the baking dish.
- Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 35-40 minutes, until the custard is set and the edges are golden brown.
- Remove the foil and switch to broil for a couple of minutes if you wish to brown the top further. Keep an eye to prevent burning.
- Take the bake out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, topped with extra cinnamon or a drizzle of syrup if desired.
Notes
For a crunchier top, sprinkle some chopped nuts or granola before baking. Leftovers can be reheated in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast.