Description
This cozy and indulgent breakfast casserole features thick slices of bread soaked in spiced custard, layered with tart apples, and finished with a generous drizzle of rich caramel. Perfect for holidays, brunches, or when you’re craving something extra special.
Ingredients
1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
3 large apples, peeled and thinly sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
6 large eggs
1 ½ cups whole milk
½ cup heavy cream
⅔ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for greasing)
½ cup caramel sauce (plus extra for serving)
⅛ teaspoon salt
Instructions
1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
2. Layer half of the cubed bread into the dish, then top with half the sliced apples. Repeat with the remaining bread and apples.
3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
4. Pour the custard evenly over the bread and apple layers. Press down gently to help soak. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
5. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove casserole from fridge, uncover, and bake for 45–50 minutes until golden and set.
6. Let cool slightly, then drizzle warmed caramel sauce over the top. Serve warm with optional whipped cream or ice cream.
Notes
For best results, use day-old bread to help absorb the custard without turning mushy.
Add chopped pecans between the layers for extra crunch and nutty flavor.
You can warm the caramel sauce in the microwave for 10–15 seconds to make drizzling easier.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 28g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 17g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
Keywords: Caramel apple casserole, French toast bake, breakfast casserole