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Breakfast is often heralded as the most important meal of the day, setting the tone for our energy levels and mood as we embark on a new day. Among the myriad of breakfast options, baked dishes hold a special place in our hearts, especially during the cozy embrace of the fall season. The aroma of cinnamon wafting through the air and the golden-brown crust of a freshly baked dish evoke feelings of warmth, comfort, and nostalgia. One such delightful creation that embodies these comforting traits is the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake—a heavenly combination of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for family gatherings or those lazy weekend mornings when you want to indulge without the hassle of elaborate cooking.

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake

Start your mornings with a warm embrace of nostalgia by making this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake. It's a delightful mashup of fluffy bread, sweet apples, and aromatic spices, perfect for cozy weekends or family gatherings. Effortlessly prepare this casserole-style dish the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. Enjoy the comforting blend of flavors, while creating unforgettable moments around the breakfast table with loved ones.
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Ingredients
  

1 loaf of thick-cut brioche or challah bread, cubed

3 medium-sized apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled and diced

4 large eggs

2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/4 cup brown sugar, packed

2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

Optional: powdered sugar and maple syrup for serving

Instructions
 

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

    Prepare the Bread: In a large bowl, combine the cubed brioche or challah bread and diced apples. Toss them gently to mix.

      Whisk the Egg Mixture: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.

        Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and apples, gently folding to ensure everything is coated well. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the bread to soak up the custard.

          Make the Topping: In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar and melted butter. Mix until well combined.

            Assemble the Bake: Pour the bread mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Drizzle the brown sugar mixture over the top of the bread and apple layer.

              Bake the Dish: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

                Cool and Serve: Once done, remove the French toast bake from the oven and let it cool for about 5-10 minutes. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with maple syrup if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6-8 servings