If you are craving a cozy, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a chilly morning, then you absolutely have to try this Apple French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Oat Crumble Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender, custardy bread soaked in a cinnamon-spiked milk mixture, layered with sweet, lightly spiced chopped apples, and topped with a crunchy, buttery oat crumble. This dish is as inviting to the eyes as it is to the palate, making it an irresistible centerpiece for weekend brunches or special occasions. Once you taste the harmony of sweet apples, rich vanilla, and cinnamon combined with that crispy oat topping, you’ll be hooked forever.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Apple French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Oat Crumble Recipe lies in its simple, quality ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role—from the soft, day-old breads that soak up the custard to the fresh apples that add natural sweetness and texture, down to the buttery crumble that gives every bite a delightful crunch.
- 3 cups gala apples (chopped): Choose firm, sweet apples to maintain texture and add natural sweetness.
- 3 tsp sugar: Balances the tartness of the apples perfectly.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and spice to the apple mixture.
- 1 French bread loaf (day old, cubed): Provides a sturdy base with a chewy texture that soaks up custard well.
- 1 brioche bread loaf (day old, cubed): Adds richness and softness to the casserole layers.
- 2 eggs: The binding agent that turns milk into custard for soaking the bread.
- 2 cups whole milk: Creates that luscious custard soaking the bread.
- ½ cup sugar: Sweetens the custard for a perfectly balanced flavor.
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract: Brings a fragrant, cozy note to the custard.
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon (for custard): Infuses the custard with an aromatic spice warmth.
- â…“ cup flour: Forms a key part of the crumble topping for structure.
- â…“ cup rolled old fashioned oats: Provides texture and a wholesome crunch in the crumble.
- ½ cup light brown sugar: Adds deep caramel notes to the crumble topping.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon (for crumble): Continues the cinnamon theme with a spicy kick in the topping.
- ¼ tsp kosher salt: Balances sweetness and enhances flavor.
- ¼ cup unsalted cold butter (cubed): Creates the buttery, melt-in-your-mouth crumble.
- Cooking spray: To prevent sticking and create an easy clean-up.
How to Make Apple French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Oat Crumble Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Baking Dish and Apples
Start by spraying a 9×13 baking dish with non-stick cooking spray to ensure an effortless release after baking. Next, toss the chopped gala apples with sugar and cinnamon in a large bowl; this simple mixture will give the apples a lovely spice and sweetness that will shine throughout the dish.
Step 2: Mix Your Breads
In a separate large bowl, combine the cubed pieces of your French bread and brioche loaf. Using two types of bread adds a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor—the sturdy crumb of French bread and the rich softness of brioche create a perfect custard-soaking duo.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients in the Dish
Sprinkle half of the bread mixture evenly across the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then toss the remaining half of the bread cubes with the apple mixture until the apples are well coated, and pour this layered mixture over the bread bottom. This layering technique ensures every bite bursts with apples and cinnamon flavor.
Step 4: Prepare the Custard and Soak the Bread
Whisk together eggs until lightly beaten, then add the whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Pour this custard mixture evenly over the layered apples and bread. Gently press the bread down to make sure everything gets well soaked. This soaking overnight in the fridge allows the bread to soak up all the sweet spices, making the inside wonderfully soft and custardy.
Step 5: Make the Cinnamon Oat Crumble Topping
Before baking, mix together the flour, oats, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt in a medium bowl. Add the cold cubed butter and cut it into the dry ingredients with a fork or pastry cutter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs. This crumble topping will add a marvelous buttery crunch that contrasts with the soft custard underneath.
Step 6: Bake and Enjoy
After letting the casserole rest 30 minutes at room temperature post refrigeration, spread the crumble topping evenly over the casserole. Bake at 350 degrees for 45 to 60 minutes, tenting with foil if necessary to prevent over-browning. Once the top is golden and the center is set, let the casserole cool for about 45 minutes before serving.
How to Serve Apple French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Oat Crumble Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly whipped cream and pure maple syrup are classic garnishes that elevate this dish to brunch-star status. A sprinkle of powdered sugar or a few thin apple slices can add an extra touch of elegance and freshness.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with crisp bacon or sausage for a savory balance, or a fresh fruit salad for an all-around delightful meal. Coffee, tea, or a glass of fresh juice complement the warm, cozy flavors perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, try serving the casserole in mini ramekins for individual portions, topped with a dollop of mascarpone cheese or crème fraîche. Adding chopped nuts to the crumble topping can also create a delightful textural twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, cover any leftover Apple French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Oat Crumble Recipe tightly with plastic wrap or transfer to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days without losing its amazing flavors and texture.
Freezing
This dish freezes beautifully, making it a fantastic option for meal prep. Freeze the entire casserole before baking or freeze individual portions after baking. Wrap tightly with plastic and foil to avoid freezer burn, and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge and warm in the oven at 350 degrees until heated through and crisp on top, about 20 minutes. Microwave works too, but oven reheating preserves the delightful crumble texture best.
FAQs
Can I use other types of apples for this recipe?
Absolutely! While gala apples offer sweetness and a tender bite, feel free to use Granny Smith for tartness or Honeycrisp for a juicy crunch. Just make sure to chop them evenly so they cook through properly.
Is it necessary to use day-old bread?
Day-old bread works best because it’s slightly dried out and absorbs the custard without becoming too mushy. If fresh, you can toast the cubes lightly to achieve similar results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the breads with gluten-free varieties and use gluten-free flour for the crumble topping. The oats should be certified gluten-free to avoid cross-contamination.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers without drying them out?
Reheat in an oven covered loosely with foil to keep the moisture in. Avoid microwaving for long stretches, which can make the bread tough and chewy.
Can this recipe be turned into a vegan dish?
With some ingredient swaps like plant-based milk, egg replacers, and vegan butter, you can customize this recipe into a vegan-friendly delight while maintaining that lovely custard and crumble texture.
Final Thoughts
This Apple French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Oat Crumble Recipe is more than just a breakfast dish—it’s a delightful way to bring warmth and joy to your table, whether for a family brunch or a cozy morning treat. The balance of tender custardy bread, sweet apples, and crunchy topping makes every bite a celebration. I hope you give it a try soon, and that it becomes one of your treasured go-to recipes for sharing comfort with those you love.
Print
Apple French Toast Casserole with Cinnamon Oat Crumble Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 10 hours 40 minutes
- Yield: 9 servings
- Category: Breakfast Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple French Toast Casserole is a comforting and delicious breakfast dish featuring a rich custard-soaked blend of French and brioche bread, sweet cinnamon-spiced apples, and a buttery oat crumble topping. Perfect for preparing the night before, this casserole bakes to golden perfection with a tender, custardy center and a crisp, flavorful topping. Serve warm with maple syrup and whipped cream for a satisfying and festive morning meal.
Ingredients
Apple Mixture
- 3 cups Gala apples, chopped
- 3 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Bread Mixture
- 1 French bread loaf (day old, cubed into 1-inch pieces)
- 1 Brioche bread loaf (day old, cubed into 1-inch pieces)
Custard Mixture
- 2 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- ½ cup sugar
- 2 tsp pure vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
Crumble Topping
- â…“ cup flour
- â…“ cup rolled old fashioned oats
- ½ cup light brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- ¼ tsp kosher salt
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed into small pieces
Instructions
- Prepare the baking dish. Spray a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with non-stick baking spray and set aside.
- Mix the apples. In a large bowl, combine the chopped Gala apples, 3 tsp sugar, and 1 tsp ground cinnamon. Stir well and set aside to let the flavors meld.
- Combine the breads. In another large bowl, mix the cubed French bread and brioche bread until evenly distributed.
- Layer the bottom bread. Sprinkle half of the combined bread mixture evenly into the baking dish, creating a base layer.
- Mix apples and remaining bread. Toss the remaining bread cubes with the apple mixture to coat the bread with apples and spices, then pour this apple-bread mixture over the base layer in the baking dish.
- Whisk the custard. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs until lightly beaten. Gradually whisk in the whole milk, ½ cup sugar, pure vanilla extract, and 2 tsp ground cinnamon until fully combined.
- Pour custard over bread. Evenly pour the custard mixture over the layered bread and apples in the baking dish. Lightly press down on the bread mixture to ensure it soaks fully in the custard.
- Refrigerate overnight. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard and flavors to meld.
- Rest before baking. Remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let it rest at room temperature for 30 minutes while you preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare the crumble topping. In a medium bowl, whisk together the flour, rolled oats, light brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and kosher salt until evenly mixed.
- Incorporate the butter. Add the cold cubed unsalted butter to the dry crumble ingredients. Using a pastry cutter or fork, cut the butter into the mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
- Top the casserole. Sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the soaked bread and apple mixture in the baking dish.
- Bake the casserole. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 45 to 60 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the custard is set and firm in the center. If the top browns too quickly, tent the casserole loosely with foil and bake an additional 10 to 15 minutes to fully cook the center.
- Cool before serving. Remove the casserole from the oven and allow it to cool for 45 minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the custard to set perfectly and makes serving easier.
- Serve. Serve warm with maple syrup and fresh whipped cream for an indulgent breakfast or brunch treat.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old bread to ensure it absorbs the custard well without becoming too mushy.
- Letting the casserole soak overnight enhances the flavor and texture by allowing the custard to fully penetrate the bread and apples.
- If you prefer a gluten-free version, substitute the breads with gluten-free bread options and verify all other ingredients are gluten-free.
- To make it dairy-free, use a plant-based milk alternative and vegan butter in the crumble topping.
- Monitor the bake time closely; oven temperatures vary and the casserole is done when the center is set and the topping is golden and crisp.
- Allowing the casserole to cool improves slicing and serving texture.
