Imagine waking up to the irresistible aroma of warm cinnamon, sweet apples, and perfectly baked bread. This Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Breakfast Bake is a simple make-ahead breakfast casserole that transforms your morning into a special occasion. This recipe elevates the classic french toast bake by adding a layer of homemade apple pie filling, creating a delightful twist that’s perfect for holidays, weekend brunches, or any day you want to treat yourself.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Overnight French Toast Breakfast Bake is more than just a breakfast; it’s an experience. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to this recipe:
Unique Apple Pie Twist: A layer of homemade apple pie filling nestled between the bread and custard transforms this into something truly special.
Enhanced Flavor and Texture: The apple pie filling adds moisture and a hint of tartness that perfectly complements the richness of the french toast. The apples soften during baking, creating pockets of extra flavor and a delightful texture.
Perfectly Balanced Sweetness: The tartness of the apples balances the sweetness of the custard and streusel topping, creating a harmonious flavor profile that isn’t overly sweet.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare this casserole the night before and simply bake it in the morning. This makes it ideal for busy mornings, family gatherings, and holiday brunches.
Ingredients Needed
- 1 pound loaf of brioche, challah, french bread, or white bread
- 8 large eggs
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 Tablespoon vanilla extract
- 3 Tablespoons light brown sugar (, packed)
- 3 Tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 Tablespoons cold butter (, cut into pieces)
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche and challah are my go-to choices for their rich flavor and ability to soak up the custard. French bread and white bread also work well. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free bread.
Cream: For the richest custard, I recommend using full-fat heavy cream. However, half-and-half can be used as a lighter alternative.
Milk: Dairy-free milk options like almond milk or oat milk can be substituted for a dairy-free version.
Butter: Unsalted butter is preferred to control the salt levels, but salted butter can be used. If using salted butter, reduce the amount of kosher salt slightly.
How to Make Overnight French Toast Breakfast Bake
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish and Bread
Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help create a golden crust. Cut the bread into 1-inch chunks and place them evenly in the prepared pan.
Step 2: Assemble the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure the eggs are thoroughly whisked for a smooth, creamy custard.
Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all the bread is coated. Gently toss the bread to combine and spread it into an even layer in the pan.
Step 3: Make the Streusel Topping
In a separate bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your hands to combine until the mixture is crumbly. The cold butter is key to creating that perfect streusel texture.
Step 4: Refrigerate Overnight
Cover the french toast bake and the streusel topping separately and refrigerate them overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful casserole.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Uncover the french toast pan and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top.
Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean. The internal temperature should be around 165°F. For more information on safe food temperatures, you can refer to the USDA guidelines on safe minimum internal temperatures.
Step 6: Cool and Serve
Allow the french toast to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Top with your favorite toppings, such as homemade syrup, berries, or whipped cream.
Apple Pie Filling Instructions
To make the apple pie filling, you will need:
- 4 cups peeled and diced apples (Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or a mix)
- 2 Tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 Tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
Instructions:
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Pour the lemon juice and cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the apples. Stir constantly until the filling thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Spread a thin layer of apple pie filling over the bread cubes before pouring the custard over. Don’t overdo it, as too much filling can make the casserole soggy. Speaking of easy meals, you might also enjoy this Cheesy Sausage Egg Breakfast Bake. For more in-depth information about fruit filling options, see our related articles.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Pro Tips
- Use day-old bread for optimal soaking. This will help prevent the casserole from becoming soggy.
- Ensure the custard is evenly distributed for a consistent texture throughout the bake.
- Don’t overbake the casserole to avoid a dry texture. Check for doneness using a toothpick.
- Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the streusel for extra crunch and flavor.
- Let the casserole rest for a few minutes after baking for cleaner slices.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to grease the baking dish.
- Overbaking the casserole.
- Using bread that is too fresh.
- Adding too much apple pie filling, which can lead to a soggy casserole.
Serving & Storage
Serving Ideas
- Serve warm with maple syrup or homemade syrup.
- Top with fresh berries and whipped cream for a delightful presentation.
- Dust with powdered sugar for a touch of sweetness.
- Pair with breakfast sausage or bacon for a complete breakfast.
Storage and Make-Ahead
- Store leftover Overnight French Toast Breakfast Bake in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, wrap the baked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave.
Conclusion
This Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Breakfast Bake is a delightful twist on a classic breakfast casserole. The apple pie filling adds a burst of flavor and moisture that will impress your family and friends. Easy to make, even for beginners, this recipe is perfect for any occasion. Feel free to experiment with different fruits or extracts to create your own unique variations. Share this recipe with friends and family and let them experience the joy of waking up to a delicious and effortless breakfast!
Consider pairing it with a refreshing drink like this easy probiotic berry smoothie.
If you’re interested in learning more about the history of French toast, there are many online resources available.
FAQ
What is the best bread to use for overnight french toast casserole?
Brioche or challah are excellent choices due to their rich flavor and ability to soak up the custard. French bread also works well.
Can I prepare this french toast casserole the night before?
Yes! This recipe is designed to be made ahead of time. Refrigerating it overnight allows the bread to fully absorb the custard.
How do I freeze the casserole?
Wrap the unbaked casserole tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking. If already baked, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. Thaw and reheat at 350 until warm.
How do I prevent the bottom from getting soggy?
Ensure the bread is slightly stale and not overly fresh. Also, don’t add too much liquid to the custard or too much apple pie filling.
What toppings go well with this casserole?
Maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, powdered sugar, and a sprinkle of nuts are all great options.
How long does it take to bake this casserole straight from the refrigerator?
Baking time may need to be increased by 5-10 minutes when baking straight from the refrigerator. Check for doneness by inserting a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean.
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Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Breakfast Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel, core, and dice the apples into small pieces.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the diced apples, sugar, and cinnamon to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples begin to soften, about 8-10 minutes.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and water to create a slurry.
- Pour the lemon juice and cornstarch slurry into the skillet with the apples. Stir constantly until the filling thickens, about 1-2 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking and help create a golden crust. Cut the bread into 1-inch chunks and place them evenly in the prepared pan.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, heavy cream, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, kosher salt, and vanilla extract until well combined. Make sure the eggs are thoroughly whisked for a smooth, creamy custard.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread cubes, ensuring all the bread is coated. Gently toss the bread to combine and spread it into an even layer in the pan.
- Spread a thin layer of apple pie filling over the bread cubes before pouring the custard over. Don't overdo it, as too much filling can make the casserole soggy.
- In a separate bowl, combine the light brown sugar, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Add the cold butter and use a pastry blender or your hands to combine until the mixture is crumbly. The cold butter is key to creating that perfect streusel texture.
- Cover the french toast bake and the streusel topping separately and refrigerate them overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, resulting in a deliciously moist and flavorful casserole.
- Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (180 degrees C). Uncover the french toast pan and sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the top.
- Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out mostly clean. The internal temperature should be around 165°F. For more information on safe food temperatures, you can refer to the USDA guidelines on safe minimum internal temperatures.
- Allow the french toast to cool for at least 10 minutes before serving. This allows the casserole to set slightly, making it easier to slice. Top with your favorite toppings, such as homemade syrup, berries, or whipped cream.
Notes
Lia Monet is a food blogger, recipe developer, and the founder of EasyAsMeals, a food blog focused on easy recipes, quick dinners, and everyday home cooking. She creates tested, family-friendly recipes using simple ingredients to help busy families cook affordable and delicious meals at home.
