Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your kitchen, without the morning rush of complicated breakfast preparation. This Overnight Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast Casserole is your ticket to a stress-free, deliciously indulgent morning meal that will have your family racing to the breakfast table. Perfect for lazy weekends, holiday mornings, or when you want to impress overnight guests, this make-ahead marvel transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece that's both comforting and elegant.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 cups diced apples
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by generously greasing it with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size to promote even soaking and baking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Spread half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle half of the diced apples over the bread cubes, distributing them evenly.
- Layer the remaining bread cubes on top of the apples, creating a second layer.
- Distribute the remaining diced apples over the second layer of bread cubes.
- Slowly pour the egg mixture over the bread and apples, ensuring all bread pieces are thoroughly saturated.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, allowing the bread to absorb the custard mixture completely.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to bring it to room temperature.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Uncover the casserole and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Optional: Drizzle maple syrup over the casserole before serving for additional sweetness.
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional cinnamon, powdered sugar, or fresh apple slices.
Tips
- Bread Selection: Use day-old bread or slightly stale bread for the best texture. Brioche, challah, or French bread work exceptionally well, as they absorb the custard mixture without falling apart.
- Cutting Technique: When cubing the bread, aim for uniform 1-inch pieces to ensure even soaking and consistent baking.
- Overnight Magic: The key to this recipe's rich flavor is the overnight refrigeration, which allows the bread to fully absorb the egg mixture.
- Room Temperature Matters: Always let the casserole sit at room temperature for 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Customize Your Casserole: Feel free to add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch, or sprinkle some additional brown sugar on top for a caramelized finish.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or a drizzle of extra maple syrup for added decadence.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 14g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 170mg
