Name: Apple Pie Overnight French Toast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 9 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 16 slices day-old Brioche or Challah bread (½-inch thick, divided); 6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams, divided (¾ stick)); 6 Gala apples (peeled and sliced); 2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon); 1¼ teaspoon apple pie spice (4 grams, divided); 8 large eggs (400 grams); 2 cups whole milk (227 grams or half-and-half); ⅔ cup granulated sugar (133 grams); 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (8 grams); ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt; Powdered Sugar; Maple Syrup

Ingredients

16 slices day-old Brioche or Challah bread (½-inch thick, divided)

6 tablespoons unsalted butter (85 grams, divided (¾ stick))

6 Gala apples (peeled and sliced)

2 tablespoons lemon juice (from 1 lemon)

1¼ teaspoon apple pie spice (4 grams, divided)

8 large eggs (400 grams)

2 cups whole milk (227 grams, or half-and-half)

⅔ cup granulated sugar (133 grams)

2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract (8 grams)

⅛ teaspoon kosher salt

Powdered sugar (for serving)

Maple syrup (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Spray a 9×13-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange 8 slices of bread in the dish, slightly overlapping. Trim slices if needed to fill any gaps.

Step 2: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter. Add the peeled and sliced apples and cook until just tender, about 8 to 10 minutes. Remove from heat, then stir in the lemon juice and 1 teaspoon of apple pie spice.

Step 3: Spread the warm apple mixture evenly over the bottom layer of bread. Place the remaining 8 bread slices on top.

Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until combined. Pour this custard mixture over the bread, pressing gently with the back of a wooden spoon or spatula to soak the bread well.

Step 5: Cover the dish and refrigerate overnight or for at least 8 hours to allow the bread to absorb the custard.

Step 6: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 30 minutes while the oven heats.

Step 7: Melt the remaining 4 tablespoons of butter in a small skillet or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in the remaining ¼ teaspoon of apple pie spice.

Step 8: Drizzle the spiced melted butter evenly over the top of the soaked bread.

Step 9: Bake in the preheated oven until the center is set and the top is golden brown, about 40 to 50 minutes. Remove from the oven and let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

Step 10: To serve, sprinkle with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup if desired.

Tips & Variations

Use day-old bread for best texture—it soaks up the custard without getting too soggy.

Substitute Granny Smith apples for a tart flavor contrast.

Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for extra crunch.

For a dairy-free version, use almond or oat milk and a vegan butter alternative.

Make individual servings by using ramekins instead of one large casserole dish.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, Brioche or Challah are preferred for their richness, but you can use other sturdy breads like Texas toast or Italian bread. Avoid very soft or thin breads that might become too mushy.

Can I prepare this casserole the same day?

It’s best to prepare it the night before to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard, but if short on time, let it soak for at least 1 hour at room temperature before baking. The texture won’t be as custardy but will still be delicious.