Description
This classic Apple Brown Betty recipe combines layers of toasted bread and tart apples baked with a cinnamon-sugar topping. It’s a comforting, warm dessert perfect for fall or any time you want a nostalgic sweet treat. Served best warm, it pairs beautifully with a drizzle of half-and-half cream for added richness.
Ingredients
For the Apple Brown Betty
- 4 slices white bread, toasted
- 3 cups sliced peeled tart apples
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
To Serve
- 1/2 cup half-and-half cream
Instructions
- Tear the Toast: Tear the toasted bread into bite-sized pieces. This will serve as the base and layering component, creating a crumbly texture after baking.
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 1 1/2-quart casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Layer the Bread: Place the torn bread pieces evenly in the bottom of the greased casserole dish.
- Add Apples and Toppings: Layer the peeled and sliced tart apples on top of the bread pieces. In a separate bowl, combine the sugar, brown sugar, and ground cinnamon. Sprinkle this sugar-cinnamon mixture evenly over the apples. Drizzle the melted butter over the entire mixture to keep it moist and add richness. Optionally, toss the apple slices with a little lemon juice before layering to prevent browning and add a fresh citrus note.
- Bake the Brown Betty: Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, stirring the mixture gently after 30 minutes to promote even baking and caramelization.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and serve the Apple Brown Betty warm, drizzled with half-and-half cream for a luscious finish.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or vanilla extract to the sugar mixture.
- Using tart apples like Granny Smith provides the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated gently in the oven or microwave.
- If desired, substitute the half-and-half with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for serving.
- Adding lemon juice to the sliced apples prevents browning and gives a bright citrus flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
