Overnight Apple French Toast

This apple baked French toast transforms ordinary bread into a caramelized, apple-infused delight that makes mornings something to look forward to. The beauty of this recipe lies in its overnight preparation, allowing you to simply slide it into the oven when you wake up, filling your home with irresistible aromas of cinnamon, ginger, and caramelized apples.

I first made this recipe when hosting a fall brunch for friends, and it has since become my signature dish for overnight guests. The way the bread soaks up the custard overnight creates the most tender, flavorful French toast imaginable.

Ingredients

• Eggs create the rich custard base that transforms ordinary bread into something special
• Apple cider infuses every bite with authentic apple flavor
• Half and half adds luxurious richness, select a quality brand for best results
• Pure maple syrup provides natural sweetness, look for 100% real maple syrup
• Vanilla extract enhances all other flavors, pure extract is worth the splurge
• Orange zest adds a subtle brightness that balances the richness
• Cinnamon and ginger provide warm spice notes that complement the apples perfectly
• Brioche bread has a buttery richness ideal for soaking up the custard
• Baking apples hold their shape when cooked, choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
• Brown sugar creates a caramel like sauce with the butter, dark brown provides deeper flavor
• Butter helps create the luscious apple topping, European style butter has extra richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Baking Dish

Thoroughly grease a 9x13 inch casserole dish, making sure to get into all corners to prevent sticking. This step ensures your French toast releases easily after baking.

Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, combine eggs, apple cider, half and half, maple syrup, vanilla extract, orange zest, salt, cinnamon, and ginger. Whisk vigorously until smooth with no streaks of egg visible. The custard should be a consistent color and texture throughout.

Arrange the Bread

Slice the day old brioche into 3/4 inch thick slices. Arrange in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping them in the center. Proper arrangement ensures even soaking of the custard mixture.

Pour the Custard

Slowly pour the custard mixture evenly over the arranged bread slices, ensuring each piece gets coated. If needed, gently press bread into mixture to help absorption.

Prepare the Apple Topping

Heat a large skillet over medium high heat. Add butter and allow it to melt completely until foamy. This indicates the water is evaporating and the butter is ready for the next ingredients.

Create the Caramel Base

Add brown sugar, apple cider, cinnamon, and ginger to the melted butter. Stir continuously until well combined and beginning to bubble slightly around the edges.

Cook the Apples

Add the peeled and sliced apples to the caramel mixture, gently stirring to coat each slice. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples have softened but still maintain their shape and the sauce has thickened to coat the back of a spoon.

Add Apple Topping

Carefully spoon the warm apple mixture evenly over the soaked bread, making sure to get some apple slices between the bread pieces. The warm topping will begin to meld with the custard mixture.

Chill Overnight

Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 6 to 8 hours, preferably overnight. This resting time allows the bread to fully absorb the custard mixture.

Prepare for Baking

Remove the dish from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking to take the chill off. Preheat your oven to 350°F and remove the plastic wrap.

Begin Baking Covered

Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. The foil prevents the top from browning too quickly while the center begins to cook through.

Finish Baking Uncovered

Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until the center is cooked through and the top is golden brown. The French toast should puff up slightly and feel set in the center.

Rest and Serve

Allow the baked French toast to rest for 5 to 10 minutes before cutting. This brief resting period helps the custard set further. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

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The orange zest in this recipe is my secret weapon. I discovered its magic when I accidentally added it to my first batch years ago. The subtle citrus note cuts through the richness and brightens the entire dish in a way you would never expect. Every time I serve this to guests, they always ask what makes it taste so special.

Making It Your Own

This recipe welcomes customization based on your preferences and what you have available. For a dairy free version, substitute the half and half with full fat coconut milk and use plant based butter. The coconut adds a subtle tropical note that pairs surprisingly well with the apples.

If you prefer a different fruit focus, pears make an excellent substitute for apples. They bring a more delicate flavor and honeyed sweetness that many find irresistible. Choose slightly firm pears to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.

For those who enjoy texture contrast, consider adding 1/2 cup of chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the apple topping in the last minute of cooking. The nuts add a delightful crunch that complements the soft, custardy texture of the French toast.

Serving Suggestions

Transform this already delicious French toast into an extraordinary breakfast experience by serving it with complementary toppings and sides. A dollop of lightly whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla yogurt adds a cool, creamy contrast to the warm French toast.

For a truly indulgent brunch, serve alongside crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. The savory, salty elements balance the sweetness of the French toast and create a satisfying meal that will keep everyone full until lunch.

Consider setting up a topping bar with options like additional maple syrup, caramel sauce, fresh berries, and toasted nuts. This allows everyone to customize their portion and makes for an interactive dining experience perfect for gatherings.

Storage and Reheating

Properly stored, leftover apple French toast maintains its delicious flavor and texture for several days. Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen overnight, making day two servings particularly delicious.

To reheat individual portions, place a slice in the microwave for 30 to 45 seconds. For the best texture, finish by toasting briefly in a toaster oven or under the broiler for 1 to 2 minutes to recreate that slightly crisp exterior.

For larger portions, cover with foil and reheat in a 325°F oven for about 15 minutes until warmed through. Remove the foil for the last few minutes if you prefer a crisper top.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different type of bread for this French toast?

Yes, while brioche creates the most luxurious texture, you can substitute challah or a hearty Italian bread. Just ensure the slices are thick (about 3/4 inch) so they don't fall apart when soaking up the custard.

→ What are the best apples to use in this dish?

Firm baking apples work best, including Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, Fuji, Pink Lady, or Gala. These varieties hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice contrast to the soft bread.

→ Can I make this without letting it sit overnight?

While overnight soaking creates the best texture, you can reduce the resting time to a minimum of 6-8 hours. The goal is to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard mixture.

→ What toppings work well with this French toast?

This dish is delicious on its own, but classic toppings include maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream. For extra indulgence, try adding chopped nuts or a drizzle of caramel sauce.

→ Can I freeze leftovers of this breakfast casserole?

Yes, leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months. Cut into individual portions, wrap tightly, and store in freezer bags. Reheat in the microwave or covered in the oven until warmed through.

→ How do I know when the French toast is fully cooked?

The French toast is done when the center is cooked through (not jiggly), the bread is puffed up, and the top is golden brown. A knife inserted in the center should come out clean without wet custard.