Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast treat that brings the flavors of a classic apple pie to your morning meal. This dish combines the sweetness of apples, warm spices, and soft bread into a creamy casserole that you can prepare the night before. Imagine waking up to the warm aroma of baked apples and cinnamon wafting through your kitchen—it’s the perfect way to start your day!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. You can prepare it ahead of time, making it ideal for family gatherings, holidays, or brunch with friends. It’s a comforting dish that will please both kids and adults. Plus, who doesn’t love a sweet and satisfying breakfast that feels like dessert?
How to Make Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole
Ingredients:
- 16 slices day-old Brioche or Challah bread (½-inch thick, divided)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams, divided (¾ stick))
- 6 Gala apples (peeled and sliced)
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 1¼ teaspoon apple pie spice (4 grams, divided)
- 8 large eggs (400 grams)
- 2 cups whole milk (227 grams (or half-and-half))
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133 grams)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (8 grams)
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
- Powdered Sugar
- Maple Syrup
Directions:
- Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place 8 bread slices in the prepared dish, slightly overlapping slices. Cut bread if necessary to fill in any empty spaces.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter. Add the apples and cook just until tender, about 8-10 minutes. Remove from heat and add the lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice.
- Spread the apple mixture over the bottom layer of bread, then top with the remaining bread slices.
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt together until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and press down gently with the back of a wooden spoon or rubber spatula.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 8 hours.
- When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the French toast to the countertop and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes while the oven preheats.
- In a small skillet or a microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and mix with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of apple pie spice.
- Drizzle the apple spice butter over the bread.
- Bake the French toast until the center is set and golden brown, about 40-50 minutes. Remove from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.
- To serve, sprinkle with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup, if desired.
How to Serve Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole
Serve this delectable casserole warm, straight from the oven. You can garnish it with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra touch of sweetness. This dish pairs well with fresh fruits and whipped cream for a complete breakfast experience.
How to Store Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole
If you have leftovers, allow the casserole to cool completely. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Tips to Make Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole
- Use day-old bread for the best texture; it absorbs the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
- Feel free to mix in dried cranberries or walnuts for added flavor and texture.
- For a gluten-free option, you can use gluten-free bread.
Variations
Try using different types of apples for varying flavors, such as Granny Smith for a tarter taste. You can also add other fruit, like blueberries or peaches, to customize your casserole to your liking.
FAQs
1. Can I make this casserole in advance?
Yes, you can prepare it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight.
2. Can I freeze Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Once cool, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
3. How do I know when it is done baking?
The casserole is done when the center is set and the top is golden brown, which usually takes about 40-50 minutes. Let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole! It’s sure to become a favorite at your breakfast table.
Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- 16 slices day-old Brioche or Challah bread (½-inch thick, divided) Use day-old bread for best texture.
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (divided) (85 grams,¾ stick)
- 6 Gala apples (peeled and sliced) Feel free to use different types of apples.
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)
- 1.25 teaspoons apple pie spice (divided) (4 grams)
- 8 large eggs (400 grams)
- 2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half) (227 grams)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133 grams)
- 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (8 grams)
- ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
For Serving
- Powdered Sugar For garnish.
- Maple Syrup For drizzling.
Instructions
Preparation
- Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place 8 bread slices in the prepared dish, slightly overlapping slices.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of the butter.
- Add the apples and cook just until tender, about 8-10 minutes.
- Remove from heat and add the lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice.
- Spread the apple mixture over the bottom layer of bread, then top with the remaining bread slices.
Combining
- In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt together until well combined.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread and press down gently with the back of a wooden spoon or rubber spatula.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight or at least 8 hours.
Baking
- When ready to cook, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the French toast to the countertop and let it stand at room temperature for 30 minutes.
- In a small skillet or microwave-safe bowl, melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter and mix with the remaining ¼ teaspoon of apple pie spice.
- Drizzle the apple spice butter over the bread.
- Bake the French toast until the center is set and golden brown, about 40-50 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and let it stand for 10 minutes before serving.
