This apple streusel French toast casserole is a delicious twist on a breakfast classic, blending tender bread with sweet apples and a crunchy topping. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect for chilly mornings or special occasions. With minimal effort, you get a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful, ideal for feeding a crowd.
The combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and a buttery streusel makes every bite irresistible. Prep it the night before, bake it fresh, and enjoy a cozy meal that feels like a hug on a plate. Let’s dive into why this recipe is a hit and how to make it at home.
Why People Love This Apple Streusel French Toast Casserole
This casserole is a favorite because it’s the perfect mix of soft and crunchy. The bread soaks up a creamy custard, while the streusel adds a satisfying crispness. Apples bring a natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with warm spices.
It’s also incredibly convenient. Assemble it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready, saving you morning hassle. That makes it a go-to for busy weekends or holiday gatherings.
The dish feels indulgent but uses simple ingredients. People enjoy its homemade charm and how it fills the kitchen with an amazing aroma. It’s comfort food with a touch of elegance.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll need everyday items plus a few extras for this recipe. Most are pantry staples, so it’s easy to whip up. Here’s the list:
- 1 loaf of French bread (about 12-14 ounces), preferably day-old
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and sliced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted (for apples)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, cold and cubed
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
These create a rich base with a sweet, crunchy finish. The apples add freshness to every bite.
Tools for the Job
No special gadgets are needed here. Basic kitchen tools will get it done. Here’s what you’ll use:
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl (for streusel)
- Fork or pastry cutter
Grease the baking dish lightly with butter or spray. This keeps everything from sticking and adds flavor.
Recipe for Apple Streusel French Toast Casserole
This recipe is simple and beginner-friendly. Follow these steps for a perfect casserole. Let’s get cooking.
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes. If it’s fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to dry. This helps it absorb the custard better.
Step 2: Cook the Apples
Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced apples, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of sugar. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft, then set aside.
Step 3: Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, and sugar together. Add vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth and combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Base
Spread half the bread cubes in the greased baking dish. Layer the cooked apples evenly over the bread. Top with the remaining bread cubes.
Step 5: Pour the Custard
Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples. Press down gently to ensure everything is soaked. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Step 6: Make the Streusel
In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter with a fork until crumbly. Stir in nuts if using, then chill until ready.
Step 7: Preheat and Top
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake It
Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until golden and set. The streusel should be crisp and the center firm. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Tips for the Best Apple Streusel French Toast Casserole
A few tricks can make this dish even better. Here are some helpful pointers:
- Use slightly stale bread for the best texture.
- Try a mix of apple varieties for more flavor depth.
- Cut butter into streusel cold for maximum crumble.
- Add a splash of apple cider to the custard for extra zing.
- Check at 40 minutes to avoid overbrowning.
These tweaks let you personalize it. Play around and see what you like best.
Nutritional Information
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving. This is based on 8 servings without optional nuts.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 360 kcal |
| Protein | 8g |
| Fat | 16g |
| Carbohydrates | 48g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 26g |
| Sodium | 340mg |
Values may vary based on bread and milk used. It’s a filling dish with a good balance of nutrients.
Serving Suggestions
This casserole is delicious solo, but extras can elevate it. Try these ideas for a complete meal:
- Drizzle with warm maple syrup or caramel sauce.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a pretty touch.
- Serve with a scoop of vanilla yogurt or whipped cream.
- Pair with fresh berries or orange slices.
- Add a side of scrambled eggs for protein.
These make it feel festive. Mix and match to suit your table.
Storing and Reheating
Leftovers are no problem with this recipe. They store well and reheat easily. Here’s how:
Wrap the cooled casserole in foil or use an airtight container. It keeps in the fridge for up to 3 days. Freeze portions for up to a month if needed.
Reheat in the microwave for 1-2 minutes per slice. Or warm in the oven at 325°F (160°C) for 10-15 minutes. Add a little milk to keep it moist when reheating.
Variations to Try
This recipe is flexible for experimenting. Here are some fun twists to consider:
- Caramel Apple: Drizzle caramel sauce over the streusel before baking.
- Cranberry Addition: Toss in ½ cup dried cranberries with the apples.
- Pumpkin Spice: Swap nutmeg for pumpkin pie spice in the custard.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and flour for the streusel.
- Savory Shift: Skip sugar in the custard and add cheddar instead.
These keep it fresh and exciting. Adjust to your taste or the season.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
The beauty of this casserole is its texture contrast. Soft, custardy bread meets tender apples and a crunchy streusel top. It’s a symphony of flavors that feels both familiar and special.
It’s also low-effort with high reward. Prep it ahead, and the oven does the rest, leaving you free to relax. The apples add a wholesome touch to the indulgence.
Plus, it’s versatile. Serve it for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert with a scoop of ice cream. It adapts to any occasion effortlessly.
Summary
This apple streusel French toast casserole is a warm, inviting dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of spiced apples, creamy custard, and buttery streusel creates a breakfast treat that’s perfect for any gathering. Prep it the night before and bake it fresh for a stress-free morning.
It’s a balance of comfort and sophistication, using simple ingredients to deliver big taste. Whether it’s a holiday brunch or a cozy weekend, this recipe will impress and satisfy. Try it out and enjoy the delicious results!
FAQ
Can I use fresh bread instead of stale?
Yes, but dry it out in the oven at 300°F for 10 minutes first. This helps it soak up the custard better.
What apples work best?
Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are great for their balance of tart and sweet. Any firm apple will do, though.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Use almond milk and coconut cream instead of milk and cream. Swap butter for a plant-based alternative.
How do I know it’s fully baked?
The top should be golden and the center set but soft. A toothpick should come out mostly clean.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, freeze in portions after baking. Reheat at 350°F for 15-20 minutes when ready to eat.
Apple Streusel French Toast Casserole Recipe
Equipment
- 9×13-inch baking dish
- Large mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Cutting Board and Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Small bowl (for streusel)
- Fork or pastry cutter
- Skillet (for apples)
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread about 12-14 ounces, preferably day-old
- 4 large eggs
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 medium apples Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, peeled and sliced
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter melted (for apples)
For the Streusel Topping:
- ½ cup all-purpose flour
- ½ cup brown sugar packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ¼ cup unsalted butter cold and cubed
- Optional: ¼ cup chopped walnuts or pecans
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
- Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes. If it’s fresh, let it sit out for a few hours to dry. This helps it absorb the custard better.
Step 2: Cook the Apples
- Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced apples, 1 teaspoon cinnamon, and a pinch of sugar. Cook for 5-7 minutes until soft, then set aside.
Step 3: Make the Custard
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, and sugar together. Add vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until smooth and combined.
Step 4: Assemble the Base
- Spread half the bread cubes in the greased baking dish. Layer the cooked apples evenly over the bread. Top with the remaining bread cubes.
Step 5: Pour the Custard
- Pour the custard mixture over the bread and apples. Press down gently to ensure everything is soaked. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.
Step 6: Make the Streusel
- In a small bowl, mix flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cut in cold butter with a fork until crumbly. Stir in nuts if using, then chill until ready.
Step 7: Preheat and Top
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake It
- Bake uncovered for 45-50 minutes until golden and set. The streusel should be crisp and the center firm. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
