Description

Warm, spiced, custardy, and kissed with apple cider—this breakfast bake is like wrapping your taste buds in a flannel blanket. It’s effortless: prep the night before, pop it in the oven in the morning, and let your kitchen fill with the scent of fall magic. Perfect for lazy Saturdays, festive brunches, or whenever you want breakfast to feel like a cozy celebration.

Ingredients

Scale

1 loaf French bread or challah, cubed (stale works best)
4 large eggs
1 ¼ cups apple cider (reduce slightly for deeper flavor)
¾ cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
¼ cup maple syrup
1 tsp cinnamon
¼ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp vanilla extract

Optional toppings: powdered sugar, sautéed apples, toasted pecans, or apple cider syrup

Instructions

Prep Bread – Grease a 9×13″ baking dish. Spread cubed bread evenly inside.
Make Custard – Whisk eggs, cider, milk, maple syrup, vanilla, and spices until smooth.
Soak Overnight – Pour custard over bread. Press down gently so cubes absorb liquid. Cover and refrigerate 8–12 hrs.
Bake – Next morning, preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake uncovered 40–45 mins until puffed, golden, and center springs back lightly.
Serve & Enjoy – Rest 5–10 mins. Slice into squares, dust with powdered sugar, and drizzle with warm syrup or honey.

Notes

For extra indulgence, simmer 1 cup cider with ¼ cup maple syrup until syrupy, then drizzle over each serving. It’s like autumn’s answer to caramel sauce.

Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins

Nutrition

Calories: 310 cal Per Serving
Fat: 10g
Carbohydrates: 44g