Imagine waking up to the most heavenly aroma filling your kitchen - a perfect blend of warm cinnamon, sweet apples, and freshly baked bread that promises to transform your ordinary morning into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Apple Cinnamon Crunch French Toast Casserole isn't just a breakfast; it's a morning celebration that will have your entire family racing to the breakfast table, spoons at the ready!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 70 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread (French or Challah)
- 4 large eggs
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 cup granola for topping
Instructions
- Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by generously greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes, ensuring they are roughly uniform in size to promote even cooking and absorption of custard mixture.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Peel and dice the apples into small, bite-sized pieces, approximately 1/2 inch cubes. Toss the apple pieces gently into the custard mixture.
- Layer half of the bread cubes into the prepared baking dish, then sprinkle half of the diced apples over the bread.
- Pour half of the egg and milk mixture evenly over the first layer, ensuring all bread cubes are moistened.
- Repeat the layering process with remaining bread cubes, apples, and custard mixture, creating a second complete layer.
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow bread to fully absorb the custard.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) about 30 minutes before you plan to bake.
- Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 15 minutes.
- Sprinkle the granola evenly over the top of the casserole to create a crunchy topping.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set and no longer liquid.
- Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow it to set.
- Optional: Dust with powdered sugar, drizzle with maple syrup, or serve with additional fresh apple slices as garnish.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Choose day-old French bread or challah for the best texture. Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.
- Overnight Magic: For maximum flavor development, always refrigerate the casserole for at least 2 hours, or preferably overnight. This allows the bread to fully soak up the delicious custard.
- Granola Game: Use high-quality, clustered granola for the best crunchy topping. For extra indulgence, consider a honey or maple-flavored granola.
- Temperature Check: Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 15 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
- Doneness Test: The casserole is ready when the top is golden brown and the center is set but still slightly jiggly.
- Serving Suggestions: Elevate your dish with optional toppings like powdered sugar, maple syrup, or fresh apple slices for extra flair.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 130mg
