Baked Apple Cider French Toast
Start this baked apple cider French toast casserole ahead of time for a deliciously spiced fall breakfast or brunch!
Ingredients
- 1 (12–14-ounce) loaf French bread, sourdough, or challah
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup (240ml) apple cider
- 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
- 1/2 cup (100g) packed brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh orange zest
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- Pinch of cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Cinnamon Apples:
- 1/4 cup (56g) unsalted butter
- 4 medium apples, peeled and sliced (about 4 cups)
- 1/4 cup (60ml) apple cider
- 1/3 cup (67g) packed brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 3/4 cup (90g) pecan halves
- For serving: confectioners sugar, maple syrup, or salted caramel sauce
Instructions
- Slice the bread into 1-inch-wide slices and let sit uncovered for a few hours or up to 1 day.
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or spray with nonstick spray.
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, apple cider, milk, brown sugar, orange zest, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Dip each slice of bread in the egg mixture, soaking both sides, and place in the prepared dish. Pour any remaining custard over the slices.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apples, apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon, allspice, nutmeg, and salt. Cook for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until apples are slightly softened. Stir in the pecans.
- Spoon the apple mixture over the bread slices, pouring any remaining sauce on top. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 3 hours or overnight.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C). Bake uncovered for 20 minutes, then cover with foil and bake for an additional 25–35 minutes until the center is set.
- Cool for 5 minutes before serving. Optionally, dust with confectioners sugar and serve with syrup or caramel.
Nutrition Information
Nutrition information per serving may vary based on ingredients used. Typically includes calories, fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and sugars.
Helpful Tips:
- For a quicker prep, bake the bread slices at 300°F (149°C) for 10 minutes to dry them out.
- Feel free to substitute apple cider with apple juice if necessary, though flavor may vary.
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for 2–3 days.
