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Apple Pie French Toast Casserole Recipe

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3.9 from 90 reviews

  • Author: Ava
  • Total Time: 55-60 minutes (excluding optional soaking time)
  • Yield: 15 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Apple Pie French Toast Casserole combines the comforting flavors of classic apple pie with the indulgent richness of French toast, all baked into a hearty breakfast casserole. Perfect for gatherings or a special weekend brunch, this dish features layers of cinnamon-spiced bread soaked in a creamy custard, topped with sweet apple pie filling and a crumble oat streusel for added texture and flavor.

Ingredients

Bread Layer

  • 16 oz French bread (or thick-sliced bread like brioche, cubed)
  • 1½ tsp cinnamon (or ½ tsp cinnamon plus apple pie spice combo)

Custard Mixture

  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups half & half (or whole milk, or heavy cream)
  • ¼ cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
  • 1 pinch salt

Apple Pie Filling

  • 21 oz apple pie filling (1 21-ounce can or homemade)

Streusel Topping

  • ½ cup old fashioned oats (or quick cooking oats)
  • ⅓ cup light brown sugar (packed)
  • ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
  • 3 Tbsp butter (melted)

Instructions

  1. Prepare: Grease or spray a 9×13 baking pan with non-stick baking or cooking spray. Arrange the cubed French bread in an even layer in your baking dish, then sprinkle with cinnamon or cinnamon and apple pie spice combination evenly over the bread.
  2. Mix Custard: In a large mixing bowl, beat the eggs thoroughly. Add the half & half, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk all ingredients until well combined and smooth. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layer of cubed bread in the baking pan.
  3. Press Bread: Using the flat side of a wooden spoon, gently press down on the soaked bread to ensure the custard is absorbed and the bread forms an even layer. Carefully spoon the apple pie filling over the soaked bread and spread it evenly across the surface.
  4. Soak: At this point, you may cover and refrigerate the casserole for 1 hour to allow the bread to soak up the custard completely. It can also be refrigerated overnight if preparing ahead, or you can proceed to bake immediately.
  5. Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  6. Prepare Topping: In a small bowl, combine the old-fashioned or quick cooking oats, light brown sugar, and all-purpose flour. Add the melted butter and mix with a fork until the mixture becomes crumbly and the butter is well incorporated.
  7. Assemble and Bake: Sprinkle the prepared streusel topping evenly over the casserole. Place the baking dish on the middle rack of your preheated oven and bake for 45 to 50 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the custard is set.
  8. Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve warm immediately. Optionally, dust with confectioners’ sugar or serve alongside whipped cream, maple syrup, or caramel syrup for extra indulgence.

Notes

  • You can substitute half & half with whole milk or heavy cream depending on desired richness.
  • For a spicier flavor, add apple pie spice or increase cinnamon.
  • The casserole can be assembled the night before and baked in the morning for convenience.
  • Use thick-sliced brioche for an even richer texture.
  • Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheat before serving.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
  • Category: Breakfast Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Find it online: https://quickandsweetrecipes.com/apple-pie-french-toast-casserole-recipe/