Holiday Breakfast(Serve Warm)
A warm, comforting breakfast casserole with caramelized apples, cranberries, and cinnamon-soaked bread, perfect for holiday mornings or special brunch gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine brown sugar, melted butter, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon in a 9 x 13 inch pan.
- Add peeled, cored, and sliced tart apples and dried cranberries or raisins. Toss to coat well.
- Spread the apple and cranberry mixture evenly over the bottom of the pan.
- Arrange the sliced French bread on top of the fruit mixture.
- In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, and remaining 2 teaspoons cinnamon until well blended.
- Pour the egg mixture over the bread, soaking completely.
- Cover and refrigerate for 4 to 24 hours.
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Bake covered with aluminum foil for 40 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes.
- Let set for 5 minutes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or swapping out some of the brown sugar for maple syrup. If you don't have French bread, challah or brioche are great substitutes. Ensure the bread is a bit stale to absorb the egg mixture better. If using fresh bread, you may want to toast it slightly before layering.
Serving Suggestions
Serve warm, topped with a dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of yogurt or fresh fruit for a balanced breakfast. Consider serving alongside a cup of coffee or tea to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 30-45 seconds, or warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Holiday Breakfast(Serve Warm) contains roughly 856 calories, with 3g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 53g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it the night before and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. Just remember to bake it in the morning for a warm, delicious breakfast.
What type of apples work best for this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are ideal for balancing the sweetness of the brown sugar and cranberries. They hold their shape well during baking, providing a lovely texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, you can easily make this dish dairy-free by using plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk and a dairy-free butter substitute. It will still taste delicious and be perfect for those with dietary restrictions.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).