Imagine waking up to the warm, inviting aroma of caramelized apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen—a delightful start to any day! Our Caramel Apple French Toast Casserole is not just a breakfast; it's an experience that transforms your morning routine into a celebration. Perfect for family gatherings or lazy weekends, this decadent dish combines the comforting flavors of French toast with the sweet, gooey goodness of caramel and fresh apples. With just a few simple ingredients and a little prep time, you can create a show-stopping breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 4 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1 cup caramel sauce
- 2 apples, diced
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Generously grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick cooking spray.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cinnamon, and half of the brown sugar until well combined and smooth.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes. If the bread is fresh, let it sit out for 15-20 minutes to slightly dry out, which helps absorb the egg mixture better.
- Peel and dice the apples into small, uniform chunks, approximately 1/2 inch in size. Toss the apple pieces with the remaining brown sugar to coat.
- Layer half of the bread cubes into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the diced apples over the bread.
- Drizzle half of the caramel sauce evenly across the bread and apple layer.
- Repeat the layering process with the remaining bread cubes, apples, and caramel sauce.
- Pour the egg and milk mixture slowly and evenly over the entire casserole, ensuring all bread pieces are moistened.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set and makes serving easier.
- Optional: Garnish with additional caramel sauce, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream before serving.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: Use a sturdy bread like challah, brioche, or sourdough for the best texture. Day-old bread works well as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Prep Ahead: For a stress-free morning, assemble the casserole the night before. Cover it with foil and refrigerate, then simply pop it in the oven the next day for a warm breakfast ready in no time.
- Customize Your Apples: While we recommend using sweet apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp, feel free to mix in tart varieties like Granny Smith for a delightful flavor contrast.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allow the casserole to rest for at least 10 minutes after baking. This helps it set and makes slicing and serving much easier.
- Garnish for Extra Flavor: Elevate your dish with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce, a sprinkle of powdered sugar, or a dollop of whipped cream just before serving for that extra touch of indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 10g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
