Ingredients
For the Apples:
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored & diced
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp butter
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For the French Toast Casserole:
- 1 large loaf of bread (16 oz.), cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 8 eggs
- 2 cups milk
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp cinnamon
- ¼ tsp nutmeg
- ⅛ tsp salt
For the Cinnamon Streusel:
- 8 Tbsp cold butter
- ⅔ cup brown sugar
- ⅔ cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- ⅛ tsp salt
Instructions
- Saute the apples: Melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the diced apples, maple syrup, and cinnamon. Stir to combine and cook until the apples are just tender, about 3-4 minutes, stirring often. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Whisk the egg batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs. Add milk, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Whisk again until fully combined and smooth.
- Assemble the casserole: Spray a 9×13 inch baking dish with non-stick spray or grease it with butter. Spread half of the bread cubes evenly across the bottom of the dish. Top with half the sautéed apples and half the cranberries. Pour half of the egg batter evenly over the top. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread, apples, and cranberries, then pour the remaining egg mixture over the entire casserole, ensuring all bread is covered.
- Refrigerate the casserole: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, up to overnight. The longer it sits, the more custard-like the texture becomes.
- Prepare the cinnamon streusel: In a medium bowl, mix together the brown sugar, all-purpose flour, cinnamon, and salt. Using a fork or pastry cutter, cut the cold butter into the flour mixture until it forms coarse crumbs. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil from the casserole and sprinkle the chilled streusel evenly over the top. Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes or until the top is golden brown and toasted, and the casserole is cooked through.
- Serve and enjoy: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with additional maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- For best results, allow the casserole to soak overnight for a custard-like texture.
- Use a sturdy bread like challah or brioche for optimal absorption and flavor.
- Fresh cranberries can be substituted with frozen; no need to thaw before assembling.
- Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
- Make sure the butter for the streusel is cold to achieve a crumbly texture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
