Description
Apple French Toast Casserole is a cozy and flavorful breakfast perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions. It combines fresh apples, warm spices, and plant-based ingredients into a make-ahead dish with a golden crispy top and a soft, custardy center. This easy-to-prepare casserole delivers a delightful balance of tart and sweet flavors with a creamy texture everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit and Bread
- 3 fresh apples (e.g., Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 8 cups stale or day-old bread, cut into cubes
Custard Base
- 2 1/2 cups plant-based milk (such as oat or almond milk)
- 4 large eggs
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (natural)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent
Instructions
- Prepare the Apples: Peel, core, and thinly slice the apples. Toss the slices lightly with cinnamon and a small amount of sugar if desired to soften them during baking and infuse warmth.
- Cut and Arrange the Bread: Cube the stale bread. Grease a baking dish and spread half of the bread cubes in an even layer. Evenly layer the apple slices on top, then cover with the remaining bread cubes.
- Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together plant-based milk, eggs, maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and the natural gelling agent until fully combined with a smooth texture.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and apples. Press gently to help the bread soak up the custard. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best results.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard has set but remains soft in the center.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for better custard absorption and to prevent sogginess.
- Allow a long soak time to enhance flavor and tenderness.
- Choose crisp apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for ideal texture and tartness.
- Check doneness by inserting a toothpick; custard should be set but slightly soft inside.
- For added texture, sprinkle chopped nuts or a light dusting of cinnamon on top before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes plus 2 hours soaking
- Cook Time: 45 to 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 220mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
Keywords: apple french toast casserole, plant-based breakfast, brunch casserole, baked french toast, cozy breakfast
