Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe

French bread: A loaf of French bread cut into cubes provides the base for the casserole, soaking up the custard mixture beautifully.

Eggs: Eggs are the binding agent that helps create the custard-like texture of the dish.

Milk: Milk adds moisture and helps to create the custard mixture.

Heavy cream: Heavy cream adds richness and a creamy texture to the casserole.

Sugar: Sugar sweetens the dish and balances the flavors.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon adds a warm, spiced flavor that pairs perfectly with the apples.

Vanilla extract: Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor with its sweet and aromatic notes.

Apples: Fresh apples add a sweet and tart flavor, as well as a pleasant texture to the casserole.

To ensure your casserole has a rich and creamy texture, allow the bread cubes to soak in the egg mixture for at least 30 minutes before baking. This will help the bread absorb all the flavors and create a more cohesive dish.

• french bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and buttery, making it an excellent alternative for a more indulgent casserole.

• french bread - Substitute with challah: Challah has a slightly sweet flavor and soft texture, which works well in a French toast casserole.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that provides a similar consistency and mild flavor.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk is another dairy-free choice that adds a slightly sweet and creamy texture.

• heavy cream - Substitute with coconut cream: Coconut cream is a dairy-free alternative that adds richness and a subtle coconut flavor.

• heavy cream - Substitute with evaporated milk: Evaporated milk provides a similar creamy texture without the high fat content.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that can be used in place of sugar for a different flavor profile.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: Pumpkin pie spice includes cinnamon along with other spices like nutmeg and cloves, adding a warm, complex flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a warm, slightly sweet flavor that can complement the apples well.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract offers a different but equally delightful flavor that pairs well with apples and cinnamon.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple extract: Maple extract can add a rich, sweet flavor that complements the other ingredients.

• apples - Substitute with pears: Pears have a similar texture and sweetness, making them a good alternative to apples.

• apples - Substitute with peaches: Peaches provide a juicy, sweet flavor that can add a different but delicious twist to the casserole.

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the bread soggy.

• For short-term storage, cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3-4 days.

• If you prefer individual servings, cut the casserole into portions and store them in airtight containers. This makes it easy to grab a quick breakfast or snack.

• To freeze, wrap the entire casserole or individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then again in aluminum foil. This double-layer helps prevent freezer burn.

• Label the wrapped casserole with the date to keep track of its freshness. It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

• When ready to enjoy, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps maintain its texture and flavor.

• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through. Cover with foil to prevent the top from over-browning.

• For a quicker option, microwave individual portions on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking and stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If you notice the apples have released extra moisture during storage, you can lightly pat the top with a paper towel before reheating to absorb any excess liquid.

• For an added touch, sprinkle a bit of fresh cinnamon or a drizzle of maple syrup over the reheated casserole before serving. This will enhance the flavors and give it a freshly baked feel.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover apple cinnamon French toast casserole in an oven-safe dish. Cover it with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out. Bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through. Remove the foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the top.

• Microwave Method: Place a portion of the casserole on a microwave-safe plate. Cover it with a microwave-safe lid or a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it’s warming evenly. If needed, continue heating in 30-second increments until hot.

• Stovetop Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place a slice of the casserole in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until heated through and slightly crispy on the outside.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 320°F (160°C). Place the leftover casserole in the air fryer basket. Heat for about 5-7 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure it’s warming evenly. This method will give you a nice, crispy top.

• Toaster Oven Method: Preheat your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the casserole on a piece of aluminum foil or a small baking tray. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the top is slightly crispy.

• Oven: Used to bake the casserole at a consistent temperature of 350°F (175°C).

• Baking dish: Holds the bread cubes and egg mixture while baking.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract.

• Whisk: Helps in thoroughly mixing the wet ingredients to create a smooth custard.

• Knife: Essential for peeling and chopping the apples into small pieces.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping the apples.

• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurement of milk, heavy cream, and sugar.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the cinnamon and vanilla extract precisely.

• Spatula: Assists in evenly spreading the egg mixture over the bread cubes.

• Grease brush: Used to grease the baking dish to prevent sticking.

• Cooling rack: Allows the casserole to cool evenly after baking.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Chop the apples and cube the bread the night before to save time in the morning.

Use a large mixing bowl: This allows you to whisk the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract quickly and efficiently.

Soak bread overnight: Pour the egg mixture over the bread cubes and let it soak in the fridge overnight. This ensures the bread is fully saturated and saves you time in the morning.

Preheat the oven early: Turn on the oven while you assemble the casserole to ensure it reaches the desired temperature by the time you’re ready to bake.