Overnight Apple French Toast Bake
This overnight apple French toast bake is made with tender cinnamon-spiced apples, buttery brioche bread, and a dreamy cream cheese glaze. It’s the ultimate make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for holidays, brunch gatherings, or cozy weekend mornings!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare everything the night before and bake it fresh in the morning. Breakfast has never been easier!
- Warm, Comforting Flavors: Cinnamon apples and rich brioche create cozy, fall-inspired flavors you’ll crave year-round.
- Perfect Texture: Custardy bread contrasts beautifully with crunchy pecans and tender apples.
- Crowd Favorite: Easily feeds a large group, making it ideal for family brunches or special occasions.
- Delicious Cream Cheese Glaze: A sweet, creamy topping adds irresistible richness to every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Apple Filling
- ¼ cup unsalted butter
- 5 medium Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced (about 5 cups)
- 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 loaf (16 ounces) brioche bread, cubed
Egg Custard
- 12 large eggs, room temperature
- 2 cups whole milk
- ⅓ cup maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Topping
- ½ cup chopped pecans
Cream Cheese Glaze
- ¼ cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 ounce cream cheese, softened
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
- ¾ cup confectioners’ sugar
- 1–3 tablespoons whole milk
How Do You Make Overnight Apple French Toast Bake?
Prepare the Apple Filling:
Start by melting butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in diced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook until apples soften slightly, about 5–7 minutes. Set aside to cool.
Layer the Dish:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread half of the brioche cubes evenly, then top with half the apple mixture. Repeat layers once more, ending with apples on top.
Make the Egg Custard:
In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until fully combined. Pour evenly over the bread and apples, gently pressing down to soak every bite.
Chill Overnight:
Cover the dish tightly with foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight (or at least 4 hours) to let the bread fully absorb the custard.
Bake the French Toast:
When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge while the oven heats. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top and bake for 45–55 minutes, until golden brown and set in the center.
Prepare the Cream Cheese Glaze:
Beat together softened butter, cream cheese, and vanilla. Gradually mix in confectioners’ sugar, adding milk one tablespoon at a time until you reach your desired glaze consistency.
Serve Warm:
Allow the bake to cool slightly, then drizzle generously with cream cheese glaze. Slice, serve, and enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Dish
- Bread Choice: Brioche is ideal for its rich flavor and soft texture, but challah or French bread also work beautifully.
- Apples: Granny Smith apples hold their shape well and add tartness, but Honeycrisp or Fuji apples also taste great.
- Custard Soaking: Overnight soaking ensures maximum flavor and a custardy texture. Short on time? Four hours in the fridge will do the trick.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different bread?
Absolutely! Challah, Texas toast, or French bread are all great alternatives.
Do I have to chill it overnight?
Overnight chilling gives the best results, but at least 4 hours will still produce delicious French toast.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy-free milk, butter, and cream cheese alternatives.
Can I skip the glaze?
Definitely! Maple syrup is a delicious alternative or addition.
How do I avoid soggy French toast?
Use sturdy bread and bake until golden and fully set.
Flavor Variations
- Fruit Swap: Try pears, peaches, or mixed berries instead of apples.
- Nut-Free: Skip pecans or substitute with granola or seeds.
- Extra Spices: Add nutmeg or ginger to the custard for extra warmth.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftovers refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Microwave individual portions for 30–60 seconds, or bake at 325°F (160°C) until warm.
- Freezing: Wrap individual slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat directly from frozen.
Serving Suggestions
My family loves this apple French toast bake served warm, drizzled generously with cream cheese glaze. Pair it with crispy bacon, breakfast sausages, or fresh fruit salad for a complete brunch spread. However you serve it, expect rave reviews—my kids request this regularly!
This overnight apple French toast bake is the ultimate breakfast comfort food. With its tender cinnamon apples, creamy custard-soaked bread, and irresistible cream cheese glaze, it’s guaranteed to become a family favorite!
