Introduction
Wake up to the delightful aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through your home with this Overnight Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast Casserole. Perfect for lazy weekend mornings or special brunch gatherings, this dish combines the comforting flavors of a classic French toast with the fruity goodness of apples. Best of all, you can prepare it the night before, freeing you up to enjoy your morning coffee while it bakes to golden perfection!
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 cups unsweetened applesauce
- 2 cups milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 cups chopped apples (peeled and cored)
- Optional: powdered sugar for serving
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Yield: Serves 8-10
Directions and Instructions
- Start by greasing a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray, then set it aside.
- In a large bowl, gently combine the cubed bread and chopped apples, ensuring they are evenly mixed.
- In another bowl, whisk together the applesauce, milk, eggs, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined and slightly frothy.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and apple mixture, making sure all the pieces of bread are generously coated.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the mixture, allowing it to seep into the layers.
- Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld.
- The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and get ready for an awesome breakfast.
- Remove the cover from the dish and bake for 45-55 minutes, or until the center is set and the top is beautifully golden brown.
- Once ready, allow the casserole to cool for a few minutes before serving. For an extra touch, you can dust it with powdered sugar.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to use any type of bread you have on hand, whether it be challah, brioche, or even whole grain, as each will add its own unique flavor and texture. To add a bit more crunch, consider tossing in some chopped nuts along with the apples. Serve with warm syrup, or top with whipped cream for an indulgent treat!
Cooking Techniques
This casserole is based on a simple layering technique, where the moisture from the egg mixture saturates the bread and apples, creating a wonderfully fluffy and moist French toast base. Letting it soak overnight not only enhances flavor but also ensures the bread absorbs all those delicious spices and sweetness, making for a standout dish that rises beautifully in the oven.
FAQ
Can I make this casserole in advance?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed for overnight preparation, making it perfect for brunch or holiday breakfasts. Just assemble it the night before, refrigerate, and bake it fresh in the morning!
What type of apples should I use?
For the best flavor and texture, choose a mix of sweet and tart apples like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. This combination adds a delightful balance to the dish.
Conclusion
This Overnight Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast Casserole is sure to become a staple in your brunch repertoire. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it transforms ordinary mornings into warm, cozy celebrations. So gather your loved ones, pour some coffee, and enjoy this heartwarming dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles.