Imagine waking up to the delicious warmth of a dessert-inspired breakfast that feels like a cozy hug in every bite — that’s exactly what the Apple Pie French Toast Casserole (Caramel Streusel Breakfast Bake) delivers. This irresistible dish combines the comforting flavors of spiced apples and cinnamon with tender French bread soaked in a rich custard, topped with a buttery caramel streusel. Whether you’re serving a crowd or treating yourself to a memorable weekend brunch, this casserole is effortlessly impressive and packed with show-stopping taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of the Apple Pie French Toast Casserole (Caramel Streusel Breakfast Bake) begins with simple, wholesome ingredients that each play a star role in building flavor, texture, and that inviting aroma. From the soft cubes of French bread soaking in custard, to the sweet and spiced apple pie filling, every component is essential for achieving the perfect balance of rich, tender, and crunchy.
- French bread (16-ounce loaf): Cubed for soaking up the custard to create a fluffy, custardy base.
- Cinnamon (1 1/4 teaspoons): Adds warm spice that pairs perfectly with apples and caramel.
- Large eggs (6): Bind the custard and give structure to the casserole.
- Brown sugar (1/4 cup): Sweetens the custard with a hint of molasses flavor for depth.
- Whole milk (2 cups): Creates a rich, creamy custard that soaks into the bread beautifully.
- Vanilla extract (2 teaspoons): Enhances all the flavors with a gentle floral sweetness.
- Apple pie filling (21 ounces): Brings in tender, juicy apple chunks with warm spices for that classic fall taste.
- Butter (3 tablespoons, melted): Key for making the crunchy, golden streusel topping.
- Light brown sugar (1/3 cup): Sweetens the streusel with a subtle caramel note.
- All-purpose flour (1/3 cup): Provides structure to the streusel topping.
- Quick-cooking oats (1/2 cup): Or old-fashioned oats, for a hearty, textured crumble on top.
- Caramel sauce (1/3 cup): The finishing drizzle that takes this bake from great to unforgettable.
How to Make Apple Pie French Toast Casserole (Caramel Streusel Breakfast Bake)
Step 1: Prepare the Bread and Custard Base
Start by lightly greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish to ensure easy serving. Place the French bread cubes in the pan and sprinkle them evenly with cinnamon. The cinnamon adds that classic spicy warmth right in the base layer.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract until smooth and combined. This custard mixture will soak into the bread cubes, making them tender and flavorful once baked.
Step 3: Soak the Bread Cubes
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the pan. Use the back of a spoon to gently press the bread cubes down, making sure they absorb the liquid. This step is crucial for that melt-in-your-mouth custardy texture.
Step 4: Add the Apple Pie Filling
Evenly spoon the apple pie filling over the soaked bread cubes. Cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. This resting time lets the flavors meld beautifully and the bread soak up all the custard goodness.
Step 5: Prepare the Streusel Topping
As the oven preheats to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, mix together melted butter, light brown sugar, flour, and oats to create a crumbly streusel. This topping will bake into a golden crust that adds irresistible texture contrasts.
Step 6: Bake to Perfection
Sprinkle the streusel topping evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes until the custard is set, the bread edges turn golden, and the streusel is crisp and bubbling. Once out of the oven, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top for a glossy, sweet finish that perfectly complements the spiced apples.
How to Serve Apple Pie French Toast Casserole (Caramel Streusel Breakfast Bake)
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a handful of chopped toasted pecans. A few fresh apple slices or a dollop of whipped cream also add wonderful freshness and creaminess that brighten up each bite.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands joyously on its own but pairs beautifully with simple sides like crispy bacon or sausage links to balance the sweetness with savory notes. Fresh fruit salad or a bowl of mixed berries adds a refreshing contrast that keeps your breakfast light and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole family-style right from the baking dish for a warm, communal feel or cut into individual squares plated with a drizzle of extra caramel sauce and a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar. For a brunch party, arrange slices on a pretty platter garnished with edible flowers to impress your guests visually as well as with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers gently keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or store in an airtight container to maintain moisture and prevent the streusel topping from becoming soggy.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. Wrap it tightly in foil and then store in a freezer-safe bag or container. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat individual servings in the microwave or warm the entire casserole in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes, covering with foil if it starts to brown too much. A quick caramel drizzle after reheating brings back the fresh-baked magic.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this casserole?
Yes! While French bread works wonderfully because of its sturdy texture and airy crumb, challah or brioche also make excellent choices for an even richer taste and softer bite.
Is it necessary to refrigerate the casserole overnight?
Refrigerating overnight helps the bread absorb the custard fully, ensuring a custardy, tender inside. However, letting it soak for at least one hour also works if you’re short on time.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free or vegan?
You can substitute the milk with any plant-based milk, and use dairy-free butter for the streusel. For eggs, a vegan egg replacer can work, but it may alter the texture slightly.
What kind of caramel sauce should I use?
Homemade or store-bought caramel sauce both work beautifully. Look for a thick, buttery caramel sauce for the richest flavor impact.
Can this recipe be doubled for a larger crowd?
Absolutely! Just use a larger baking dish and increase all ingredients proportionally. Be sure to adjust baking time as needed, checking for doneness with a toothpick.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a breakfast that feels like a warm slice of fall in every bite, the Apple Pie French Toast Casserole (Caramel Streusel Breakfast Bake) is your new go-to. It’s simple enough to prepare ahead but special enough to turn any morning into a celebration. I can’t wait for you to try it and share this cozy, sweet sensation with your loved ones!
PrintApple Pie French Toast Casserole (Caramel Streusel Breakfast Bake)
This Apple Pie French Toast Casserole is a decadent breakfast or brunch dish combining the comforting flavors of apple pie with the classic appeal of French toast. Cubes of French bread are soaked in a cinnamon-spiced egg mixture, layered with sweet apple pie filling, topped with a buttery oat streusel, baked to golden perfection, and finished with a drizzle of caramel sauce. Perfect for serving a crowd or preparing ahead for a cozy morning treat.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes plus 1 hour refrigeration
- Yield: 12 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
French Toast Base
- 1 (16-ounce) loaf French bread, cut into cubes
- 1 1/4 teaspoons cinnamon
- 6 large eggs
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 cups whole milk
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 (21-ounce) can apple pie filling
Streusel Topping
- 3 tablespoons melted butter
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup quick-cooking oats (or old-fashioned oats)
- 1/3 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Baking Dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch pan to prevent sticking. Place the cubed French bread evenly in the greased pan and sprinkle the cinnamon over the bread cubes for a warm spice flavor.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, brown sugar, whole milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined. This mixture will soak into the bread to create a custardy texture when baked.
- Soak the Bread: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the baking pan. Use the back of a spoon to gently press the bread cubes down so they absorb the liquid thoroughly. This ensures each piece is infused with the custard.
- Add Apple Pie Filling and Refrigerate: Spoon the apple pie filling evenly over the soaked bread cubes, spreading it to cover the surface. Cover the pan with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard and flavors to meld.
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Streusel: Remove the casserole from the refrigerator. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, mix the melted butter, light brown sugar, all-purpose flour, and oats together in a small bowl until crumbly to create the streusel topping.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the streusel mixture evenly over the casserole. Bake uncovered for 45 to 50 minutes or until the custard is set and the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Drizzle caramel sauce over the warm casserole just before serving to add a rich, sweet finishing touch. Slice and serve warm for a delicious breakfast or brunch delight.
Notes
- This casserole can be assembled the night before for easy morning preparation.
- Use day-old French bread for best texture as it absorbs the custard better.
- Substitute apple pie filling with fresh cooked apples spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg for a homemade touch.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond or oat milk and use dairy-free butter for the streusel.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.