Caramel Apple French Toast Casserole is a delicious and comforting dish perfect for breakfast or brunch. This casserole combines layers of bread soaked in a sweet custard mixture, tender caramelized apples, and a rich caramel sauce. It’s easy to prepare ahead of time, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or weekend family breakfasts.

Ingredients List

For the Casserole

• 1 loaf (about 16 oz) of challah or brioche bread (cubed)
• 6 large eggs
• 2 cups whole milk
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Caramelized Apples

• 4 medium apples (peeled, cored, and sliced; Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Topping

• 1/2 cup caramel sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• Optional: whipped cream or powdered sugar for serving

Timing

Preparing Caramel Apple French Toast Casserole takes about 20 minutes for prep, 30 minutes for cooking, and at least 1 hour for chilling (or overnight), totaling approximately 1 hour and 50 minutes if chilled overnight.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Caramelized Apples

1. Melt Butter: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.
2. Add Apples: Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and lemon juice. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

1. Whisk Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Casserole

1. Layer Bread and Apples: In a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, layer half of the cubed bread. Top with the caramelized apples, spreading them evenly. Add the remaining bread cubes on top.
2. Pour Custard: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples, pressing down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid.
3. Chill: Cover the casserole with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Bake: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes. Bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Step 5: Serve

1. Drizzle with Caramel: Once baked, drizzle warm caramel sauce over the top of the casserole.
2. Optional Toppings: Serve with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.
3. Enjoy: Slice and serve warm, enjoying the delicious combination of flavors!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick glance at the nutritional profile of Caramel Apple French Toast Casserole (per serving, assuming 8 servings):

Nutrient	Amount per Serving
Calories	380
Protein	8g
Fat	22g
Carbohydrates	42g
Fiber	2g

Tips for Customization

• Add Nuts: Incorporate chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch.
• Use Different Fruits: Substitute apples with pears or berries for a different flavor profile.
• Spice Variations: Experiment with spices like ginger or cloves for added warmth.

Serving Suggestions

Caramel Apple French Toast Casserole pairs well with:

• Fresh fruit or a fruit salad for a refreshing side.
• A hot cup of coffee or tea to complement the sweetness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not Allowing to Soak: Make sure to let the casserole soak for at least an hour (or overnight) for the best texture.
2. Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent it from becoming dry; it should be golden brown on top but still soft inside.
3. Skipping the Caramel Sauce: The caramel sauce adds a delicious richness, so don’t skip it!

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Caramel Apple French Toast Casserole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a warm oven before serving.

Conclusion

In just under two hours (or overnight for soaking), you can create Caramel Apple French Toast Casserole, a warm and inviting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its layers of sweet apples and rich custard, this casserole is sure to become a favorite at your breakfast or brunch table!

FAQs

Can I make this casserole ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight, then bake it in the morning.

Can I freeze the casserole?

It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled casserole, as the texture may change. However, you can freeze baked leftovers and reheat them later.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or whole milk, but the richness will be reduced.

Can I add more spices?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking, adding more cinnamon or trying out other spices.