Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf of challah bread or brioche (about 14 ounces or 400 grams), cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups (480 ml) whole milk
  • 1 cup (240 ml) apple cider
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons (28 grams) unsalted butter, melted
  • ½ cup (100 grams) brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1 cup (150 grams) chopped apples (preferably Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the bread cubes in the 9x13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, apple cider, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes.
  3. Press the bread down with a spatula to ensure all pieces are moistened. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).
  4. In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and chopped apples until combined.
  5. Remove the cover and sprinkle the apple topping over the soaked bread. Bake in preheated oven for 30-35 minutes until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving. Optionally garnish with whipped cream or drizzle with maple syrup.