The aroma of cinnamon wafting through the kitchen, combined with the sweet scent of baked apples, is enough to make anyone’s mouth water. Imagine digging into a warm slice of Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole, where every bite is a delightful explosion of cozy flavors and textures. fresh apple salad pairing.
This dish is perfect for lazy weekend brunches or festive gatherings, promising to warm hearts and fill bellies. It’s like a hug in food form, and trust me, your family will agree as they dive into this deliciousness.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole is incredibly easy to prepare the night before, allowing for stress-free mornings
- The blend of cinnamon and sweet apples creates a heavenly flavor profile that’s hard to resist
- Its golden-brown top and gooey apple filling make it visually stunning on any brunch table
- Enjoy it as a holiday treat or as a delightful weekend breakfast option
Every time I serve this casserole, my friends’ eyes light up like they’ve just spotted their favorite dessert after a long diet.

Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Challah Bread: This fluffy bread absorbs the custard beautifully; feel free to use leftover bread if you have any.
- Fresh Apples: Choose crisp apples like Granny Smith for a delightful balance between sweet and tart flavors.
- Eggs: Use large eggs for the best binding; they create that rich custard texture we crave.
- Milk: Whole milk gives a creamier consistency, but feel free to swap with almond or oat milk if preferred.
- Cinnamon: The star spice! Freshly ground cinnamon enhances the aroma and flavor; no one likes old spices! pumpkin spice cookie twist.
- Brown Sugar: Dark brown sugar adds depth with its molasses content, making every bite more indulgent.
- Vanilla Extract: A splash elevates the dish, bringing warmth and sweetness without overpowering other flavors.
For the Topping:
- Walnuts or Pecans: These add crunch; toast them lightly for an extra layer of flavor.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle over each serving for that sweet finish; nothing beats real maple syrup!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Bread Base: Begin by cutting your challah bread into cubes, about 1-inch in size. Place these cubes in a greased baking dish for even distribution.
Create the Custard Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully blended. The mixture should be smooth and creamy.
Add Apples to the Mix: Fold in your chopped fresh apples gently into the custard mixture. Make sure they are evenly coated for maximum flavor.
Pour Over Bread Cubes: Carefully pour the custard mixture over your cubed bread in the baking dish. Press down gently to ensure all pieces soak up that delicious goodness.
Cover and Chill Overnight: Cover your baking dish with plastic wrap or foil. Let it sit in the refrigerator overnight so those flavors can meld beautifully.
Bake Until Golden Brown: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove from fridge and bake uncovered for about 45-50 minutes until golden brown on top and set inside; your kitchen will smell divine!
This Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole is not just another breakfast; it’s an experience! Each step brings you closer to that warm slice of indulgence that feels like home. perfect breakfast cake alternative So gather your ingredients and let’s create something memorable together!
You Must Know
- This Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole is a breakfast game changer
- It combines the sweetness of apples with cinnamon’s warmth, making mornings irresistible
- Prepare it ahead for effortless serving and enjoy the aroma filling your home as it bakes
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by whisking eggs and milk in one bowl, while you mix sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla in another. Layer bread and apple slices in a baking dish, pouring the egg mixture over it before refrigerating overnight. cinnamon swirl bread option Bake at 350°F for 45-50 minutes the next day.

Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out apples for pears or add nuts for crunch. Drizzle maple syrup or caramel sauce on top after baking for an indulgent finish. Customize spices like nutmeg or cardamom to elevate flavors based on your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm individual portions in the microwave or re-crisp in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use stale bread for better absorption of custard; it helps achieve that perfect texture
- Always let your casserole cool slightly before serving to avoid burn risks
- If using fresh apples, toss them with lemon juice to prevent browning during prep
I remember making this Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole for a holiday brunch. Everyone raved about it, and I had to share my secret recipe, which made me feel like a culinary rockstar! For more inspiration, check out this Apple Pie Bars recipe.
FAQ
Can I use gluten-free bread?
Yes, gluten-free bread works well and gives similar results if it’s stale.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days in the fridge.
Can I make this casserole without eggs?
Yes, substitute eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option!
Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Indulge in the warm, comforting flavors of Overnight Cinnamon Apple French Toast Casserole. This easy-to-make dish combines soft challah bread, sweet apples, and aromatic cinnamon, perfect for cozy weekend brunches or festive gatherings. Prepare it the night before for a stress-free morning, and enjoy every bite of this delicious breakfast treat that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients
- 6 cups challah bread, cubed
- 3 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk (or almond/oat milk)
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 3 cups fresh apples, chopped (e.g., Granny Smith)
- For Topping: 1/2 cup walnuts or pecans, chopped
- Maple syrup for drizzling
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Grease a baking dish and place cubed challah bread evenly in it.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Gently fold in the chopped apples until evenly coated.
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread cubes and press down gently to ensure soaking.
- Cover and refrigerate overnight.
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until golden brown and set.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 25g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 8g
- Cholesterol: 120mg



