Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole Recipe
Are you tired of making the same old French toast for breakfast every morning? Do you want to spice things up and add a new twist to your morning routine? Look no further than this delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole!
In this blog post, we will show you how to make this mouth-watering dish that will have your taste buds begging for more. Stay tuned for step-by-step instructions and helpful tips to create the perfect breakfast treat that the whole family will love.
Get ready to impress your loved ones with this easy and flavorful recipe that is sure to become a new favorite in your household.
Ingredients for making Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
- 8 cups of cubed bread – The bread acts as the base for the French toast casserole, providing structure and absorbing the custard mixture. Choose a sturdy bread like French bread or brioche for the best results.
- 1 ½ cups of milk – Milk adds richness and moisture to the custard, giving the French toast casserole a creamy texture.
- 6 large eggs – Eggs are the key ingredient in the custard, helping to bind everything together and giving the casserole a fluffy and tender texture.
- ½ cup of granulated sugar – Sugar adds sweetness to the French toast casserole, balancing out the flavors and creating a delicious caramelized crust.
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract – Vanilla extract enhances the overall flavor of the dish, adding warmth and depth.
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon – Cinnamon pairs perfectly with apples, adding a warm and comforting flavor to the casserole.
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground nutmeg – Nutmeg adds a subtle, nutty flavor to the casserole, complementing the cinnamon and enhancing the overall taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon of salt – Salt helps to enhance the other flavors in the dish and balance out the sweetness.
- 2 apples, peeled and thinly sliced – Apples add a burst of freshness and sweetness to the casserole, complementing the cinnamon and creating a delicious contrast in texture.
- 1/2 cup of chopped pecans – Pecans add a crunchy texture and rich, nutty flavor to the casserole, creating a delightful contrast with the soft bread and tender apples.
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar – Brown sugar adds a deep, caramel-like sweetness to the casserole, creating a deliciously gooey topping.
- 1/4 cup of melted butter – Butter adds richness and moisture to the topping, helping to create a golden-brown crust.
Equipments Needed for making Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
Equipment Needed:
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Stovetop skillet
- Oven
- Parchment paper (optional)
Cooking Process for making Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 350°F and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.
- Cut the bread into cubes and add them to the egg mixture, stirring gently to coat all the bread pieces.
- Add the chopped apples to the mixture and stir to distribute evenly throughout.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
- In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and cold butter to make the streusel topping.
- Sprinkle the streusel topping over the bread mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.
- Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving.
- Serve the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole warm, topped with maple syrup or powdered sugar if desired. Enjoy!
Suggestions for Serving
Pairing Suggestions:
- Serve this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for added sweetness.
- Pair it with a side of fresh berries or a mixed fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting flavors of the casserole.
- Enjoy this dish with a hot cup of coffee or a glass of cold milk for a cozy and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Plating Tips:
- To plate this French toast casserole elegantly, use a decorative serving platter or a rectangular dish to showcase the layers of bread, apples, and cinnamon.
- Garnish the casserole with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and some fresh apple slices for a visually appealing presentation.
- For an extra touch of elegance, consider adding a few edible flowers such as pansies or lavender on top of the casserole.
Cultural Traditions:
- In some cultures, French toast is traditionally served as a sweet breakfast or brunch dish, often enjoyed during special occasions or holidays.
- Adding apples and cinnamon to the classic French toast recipe gives this casserole a cozy and autumnal twist, perfect for cold mornings or festive gatherings.
Nutritional Value of Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole
- Nutrition Value (per serving)
- Calories: 378
- Protein: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Sugar: 27g
- Fiber: 3g
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 174mg
- Sodium: 283mg
FAQ
Can I prepare this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. Just pop it in the oven in the morning for a delicious and easy breakfast.
Can I use regular bread instead of French bread for this recipe?
You can certainly use regular bread for this recipe, but French bread works best as it is sturdier and can hold up to the liquid mixture without becoming too mushy.
Can I use a different type of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use any type of apples you prefer for this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole. Some good options include Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Gala apples.
Can I add nuts or raisins to this casserole?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped nuts (such as pecans or walnuts) or raisins to this recipe for some extra texture and flavor.
Conclusion
In conclusion, this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for breakfast or brunch. Its warm and inviting flavors make it a favorite among family and friends.
The combination of apples, cinnamon, and French toast creates a mouthwatering treat that is sure to become a staple in your recipe collection. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply treat yourself to a special breakfast, this casserole is a must-try.
Give it a try and enjoy the cozy, comforting taste of fall with this delicious recipe.
