Apple French Toast Bake
A delightful baked dish combining tender bread, juicy apples, and creamy cottage cheese, perfect for lazy Sundays or festive brunches.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 large eggs Create structure and richness.
- 2 cups milk Adds creaminess.
- 1 cup applesauce Contributes moisture.
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon Provides warmth and spice.
- 1/2 cup maple syrup A natural sweetener.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Enhances flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt Balances sweetness.
- 6 cups cubed bread Foundation of the bake.
- 2 cups chopped apple Adds freshness.
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese Adds creaminess and protein.
- 1 cup rolled oats Adds heartiness.
- 1/2 cup flour Helps bind ingredients.
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans Provides crunch.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar Sweet touch for topping.
- 2 tablespoons butter Adds richness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large measuring jug, whisk together eggs, milk, applesauce, cinnamon, maple syrup, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
- In a lightly greased deep dish, layer half of the cubed bread, pour over 1/3 of the milk mixture, top with chopped apple and dot with cottage cheese. Add the remaining bread and pour over the rest of the milk mixture.
- Cover and chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight.
Baking
- Remove from the fridge, uncover, and sprinkle with topping if desired.
- Bake for 35-45 minutes until golden and set.
- Allow to rest for 5 minutes before serving with fresh apple, maple syrup, and chopped pecans.
Notes
Using slightly stale or day-old bread enhances texture. You can prepare the milk mixture and layer the casserole the night before for a hassle-free breakfast. Serve warm with maple syrup or powdered sugar.