Name: Easy Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 6 cups cubed brioche, challah, or French bread (day-old preferred); 3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced – Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best); 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture); ½ cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess); ¾ cup brown sugar; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; ¼ teaspoon salt; 3 tablespoons butter, melted (plus extra for greasing); 2 tablespoons brown sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; ¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

This apple cinnamon breakfast bake is the perfect blend of warm, cozy flavors and a soft, custardy texture that feels like a comforting hug in every bite. With tender apples, hints of cinnamon, and a golden, slightly crisp top, it’s an irresistible choice for a weekend brunch, special holiday breakfast, or make-ahead meal for busy mornings.

What is Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake?

An apple cinnamon breakfast bake is a sweet, baked dish similar to French toast casserole, combining bread cubes, eggs, milk, apples, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It’s baked until golden and fluffy, creating a delicious balance of soft interior and crisp edges—perfect for serving warm with maple syrup or powdered sugar.

Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake recipe — Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Other Breakfast Casserole Recipes

Reasons to Try Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Warm and comforting – Perfect for fall mornings or cozy weekends.
Easy to make – Simple ingredients and minimal steps.
Family-friendly – Loved by kids and adults alike.
Make-ahead option – Prepare it the night before for stress-free mornings.
Versatile – Works as both a breakfast and a dessert-style brunch dish.

Ingredients Needed to Make Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

6 cups cubed brioche, challah, or French bread (day-old preferred)
3 medium apples (peeled, cored, and diced – Honeycrisp or Granny Smith work best)
6 large eggs
2 cups milk (or half-and-half for a richer texture)
½ cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
¾ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
¼ teaspoon salt
3 tablespoons butter, melted (plus extra for greasing)

Topping (optional):

2 tablespoons brown sugar
½ teaspoon cinnamon
¼ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

Instructions to Prepare Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Step 1: Preheat the oven

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.

Step 2: Prepare apples

Peel, core, and dice the apples. In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter and sauté the apples for 2–3 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 3: Mix custard

In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt until smooth and combined.

Step 4: Assemble casserole

Spread cubed bread evenly in the greased baking dish. Add the sautéed apples on top. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples, gently pressing down to make sure all cubes absorb the liquid.

Step 5: Add topping (optional)

Mix brown sugar, cinnamon, and nuts, then sprinkle over the top for a sweet, crunchy finish.

Step 6: Bake casserole

Bake uncovered for 40–45 minutes until the top is golden and the center is set but still soft.

Step 7: Rest and serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5–10 minutes before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup or dust with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

What Goes Well With Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Vanilla yogurt or whipped cream – Adds a creamy contrast.
Fresh fruit salad – Lightens up the dish.
Maple syrup or caramel sauce – Enhances sweetness.
Scrambled eggs or bacon – Balances flavors with a savory touch.
Hot coffee or apple cider – Complements the warm cinnamon aroma.

Key Tips for Making Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Use day-old bread – It absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
Choose the right apples – Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness.
Let it rest – Allows the custard to set and keeps slices intact.
Bake uncovered – Ensures a crisp top and fluffy interior.
Add nuts for crunch – Pecans or walnuts enhance texture and flavor.
Make it ahead – Refrigerate overnight and bake in the morning.

Creative Variations of Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Add raisins or cranberries – For a festive touch.
Make it caramel apple style – Add a drizzle of caramel before baking.
Add cream cheese – Swirl in for a rich, creamy layer.
Make it nut-free – Skip the topping for a kid-friendly version.
Add pumpkin spice – For a seasonal fall flavor.

Storage Guidelines for Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Refrigerate leftovers – Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze portions – Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months.
Cool completely before storing – Prevents sogginess.
Reheat before serving – Enjoy warm for best texture.

Reheating Tips for Apple Cinnamon Breakfast Bake

Oven method – Warm at 325°F (160°C) for 15–20 minutes.
Microwave option – Heat individual portions for 2 minutes on medium.
From frozen – Bake covered with foil at 350°F (175°C) for 40–45 minutes.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: ~350
Protein: 10g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fat: 15g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 280mg

FAQs

Can I make an apple cinnamon breakfast bake the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before. Assemble all ingredients, cover tightly, and refrigerate overnight. Bake it in the morning, adding 5–10 extra minutes since it starts cold.

How do you keep an apple breakfast bake from getting soggy?

Use day-old or slightly stale bread and make sure not to add too much liquid. After baking, let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes to help it firm up before serving.

What kind of apples work best for breakfast bakes?

Tart and firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work best. They hold their shape during baking and balance the sweetness of the dish perfectly.

Can I use oat milk or almond milk instead of regular milk?

Yes, both oat milk and almond milk are great dairy-free substitutes. They blend well with eggs and give the casserole a slightly nutty flavor without affecting the texture.

Final Words

This apple cinnamon breakfast bake is the ultimate comfort breakfast—sweet, cozy, and full of flavor. Whether you’re serving it for a family brunch, holiday morning, or a weekend treat, it delivers everything you love about homemade comfort food in one delicious bite. Serve it warm, and enjoy the taste of pure happiness baked into every spoonful.