Apple Pie French Toast Casserole

Introduction

This Apple Pie French Toast Casserole is the kind of cozy brunch that smells like fall and looks like a celebration on your breakfast table. Cubes of cinnamon-spiced French bread soak up a sweet custard while pockets of apple pie filling caramelize into glossy, warming bites. It’s easy to assemble the night before so mornings can be slow, relaxed, and delicious. If you like playful apple desserts, try these apple pie nachos for a fun snack that echoes the same flavors.

Why This Recipe Is a Great Choice

This casserole takes classic French toast flavors and stretches them into a shareable, make-ahead centerpiece that’s perfect for holidays, weekend mornings, or feeding a crowd. The cinnamon-spiced bread gives each bite a warm base while the apple pie filling brings bright, saucy pockets of fruit. The oat and brown sugar topping crisps up in the oven to create a contrast that will make everyone reach for seconds. It’s forgiving, too substitute slightly stale bread or use a store-bought filling to save time without sacrificing taste. For another apple-forward treat, check out these apple pie cupcakes for dessert or a lunchbox surprise.

Flavor and Texture

Think of this casserole as layers of comfort: soft, custardy bread beneath a bubbling apple layer and a crunchy streusel-style topping. The cinnamon and vanilla in the egg mixture deepen the aroma, while the brown sugar and oats form golden, toffee-like clusters. Slices of apple in the pie filling keep the texture lively so you get tender fruit alongside pillowy bread. Serve it warm so the center is still slightly gooey and the edges are set and caramelized. A drizzle of maple syrup or a dollop of whipped cream amps up the indulgence.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf of cinnamon-spiced French bread, cut into cubes
• 1 can of apple pie filling
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup of milk
• 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
• 1/4 cup of sugar
• 1/2 cup of oats
• 1/2 cup of brown sugar
• 1/4 cup of flour
• 1/4 cup of butter, melted

Step by Step Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, and sugar.
3. Layer half of the bread cubes in the prepared baking dish.
4. Spread the apple pie filling over the bread layer.
5. Add the remaining bread cubes on top.
6. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread.
7. In another bowl, mix together oats, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter. Sprinkle over the top.
8. Cover and refrigerate overnight or bake immediately for 30-35 minutes until golden and set.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips for Best Results

Choose a loaf with sturdy texture so the cubes hold some shape after soaking; slightly stale bread often works best. Let the custard soak at least 30 minutes if you’re in a rush, but overnight makes the center extra soft and flavorful. Press the bread down gently into the liquid to help absorption, and scatter the oat topping evenly for consistent crunch. If your apple pie filling is very saucy, spoon some of the syrupy bits under and over the bread for pockets of caramelized sweetness. Bake until the center no longer jiggles to ensure the custard is fully set.

Storage and Make Ahead

This casserole keeps well chilled for up to three days and reheats beautifully in a warm oven or toaster oven to restore crispness on top. Cover tightly with foil before refrigerating to prevent drying out, and slice individual portions for quick reheating. You can assemble the night before and bake in the morning for effortless hosting. If freezing, wrap tightly and thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to maintain texture.

Final Thought

This Apple Pie French Toast Casserole blends comforting flavors with easy prep for a homey dish that feels special. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s flexible, friendly to make-ahead planning, and perfect for cozy mornings. Whip it up when you want a little extra warmth on the table.

Conclusion

For a similar take or inspiration, see the original Apple Pie French Toast Casserole at Apple Pie French Toast Casserole – Spicy Southern Kitchen.

FAQ

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