Contents
Introduction
Indulging in a warm, comforting breakfast can set the tone for the whole day, and there’s nothing quite like an Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake to bring joy to your morning. This decadent dish combines the rich flavors of brioche bread soaked in a creamy custard with tender apples and warm spices. Perfect for breakfast gatherings or an easy holiday morning, this recipe from Damn Delicious is simple to prepare and packed with deliciousness.
Detailed Ingredients with Measures
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 large apples, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1½ teaspoons ground cinnamon, divided
– 1 (16-ounce) loaf brioche bread, cubed
– 1 (8-ounce) package cream cheese, cubed
– 12 large eggs, beaten
– 2 cups whole milk
– ⅓ cup maple syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– ½ teaspoon kosher salt
– ½ cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon confectioners’ sugar
Prep Time
30 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
Total Time: At least 2 hours (including refrigeration)
Yield: Serves 8-10
This Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake is the perfect blend of sweetness and spice, making it a household favorite. Enjoy this delightful dish paired with your favorite breakfast sides.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Apple Mixture:
Melt butter in a large cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add diced apples and cook, stirring often, until just tender, about 5 minutes. Stir in brown sugar and 1 teaspoon cinnamon; continue cooking until sugar has dissolved, about 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool.
Assemble the Casserole:
Lightly coat a 9×13-inch baking dish with nonstick spray. Place a layer of bread cubes evenly into the baking dish. Top with cream cheese and half of the apple mixture in an even layer. Add the remaining bread cubes and then the remaining apple mixture on top.
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together beaten eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, salt, and the remaining ½ teaspoon cinnamon. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread and apple layers. Cover the baking dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Bake the Casserole:
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes. Sprinkle chopped pecans over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Uncover and continue to bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown and the center is firm.
Serve:
Serve immediately, sprinkled with confectioners’ sugar if desired.
Notes
Preparation Tip:
For best results, prepare the casserole the night before and allow it to sit overnight in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with additional maple syrup or fresh fruit for added flavor.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven before serving.
Cook Techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking food quickly in a small amount of hot fat, usually oil or butter. In this recipe, the apples are sautéed in butter until tender, which helps enhance their flavor and texture before adding them to the casserole.
Layering
Layering is essential for creating depth of flavor and texture in dishes like casseroles. In this recipe, bread cubes are layered with cream cheese and apple mixture to create a satisfying combination that bakes evenly.
Whisking
Whisking is a technique used to blend ingredients smoothly, incorporating air for a lighter texture. In this recipe, whisking together eggs, milk, and other ingredients ensures that the mixture is homogenous, allowing it to soak into the bread evenly.
Baking
Baking is a method of cooking food by surrounding it with dry heat in an oven. Here, the casserole is baked to create a golden-brown top while ensuring that the interior is cooked through and fluffy.
Cooling
Cooling allows ingredients, like the cooked apple mixture, to reach a safe temperature before assembly. This step helps prevent the eggs in the custard from cooking prematurely when poured over the bread.
Serving
Serving involves presenting the finished dish attractively. In this recipe, the casserole is garnished with confectioners’ sugar for an extra touch of sweetness, making it visually appealing and inviting.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
Yes, while brioche bread works well for its sweetness and texture, you can use other types of bread such as challah or French bread.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I prepare this dish without the cream cheese?
Yes, you can omit the cream cheese or substitute it with a dairy-free alternative if desired, although it will change the overall texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for pecans?
You can use other nuts like walnuts or almonds, or omit the nuts altogether if you prefer a nut-free version.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free bread in place of regular brioche to make a gluten-free version of this casserole.
Conclusion
This Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake is a delightful and indulgent breakfast option that brings together the warm flavors of cinnamon and apple for a comforting dish. Its ease of preparation makes it perfect for a special occasion or a simple weekend treat, ensuring that everyone at your table will enjoy every bite.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Berry French Toast Bake
Combine assorted berries such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries with the same brioche base for a berry-packed breakfast.
Chocolate Chip Banana French Toast Bake
Incorporate chocolate chips and sliced bananas into the layer of bread and cream cheese for a sweet twist.
Pumpkin Spice French Toast Bake
Replace the apples with canned pumpkin, and use pumpkin pie spice instead of cinnamon for a delicious fall-inspired treat.
Peach and Almond French Toast Bake
Swap apples for fresh peaches and sprinkle sliced almonds on top for a refreshing summer breakfast option.
Coconut and Pineapple French Toast Bake
Mix coconut flakes and diced pineapple into the batter for a tropical-inspired breakfast.
Maple Bacon French Toast Bake
Add crispy bacon bits to the layers for a savory and sweet combination that’s sure to please.
