Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake

What you need

• 1 loaf brioche bread, sliced into 1-inch thick pieces
• 3 large apples, peeled and diced
• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup half-and-half
• 1/2 cup maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

The easy way

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
2. Arrange half of the brioche slices in the bottom of the dish, layer with diced apples, and top with remaining bread.
3. Whisk together the eggs, half-and-half, maple syrup, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg, and melted butter until well combined.
4. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked; let sit for 5 minutes.
5. Sprinkle brown sugar over the top and bake for 30-35 minutes until the center is set and the edges are caramelized.
6. Cool slightly before serving; store covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Use your senses. Times are guardrails. Look for the color, texture, and doneness cues in the steps, and refrigerate perishable leftovers promptly.