Description
This Apple Raisin French Toast Strata is a delicious, make-ahead breakfast perfect for brunch or special occasions. Featuring cinnamon raisin bread, tender apples, and a rich custard, this baked dish is creamy, comforting, and full of flavor. Prep it the night before for an easy, stress-free morning!
Ingredients
For the Strata:
- 1 (1 lb) loaf cinnamon raisin bread, cubed
- 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, diced
- 1 cup peeled, diced apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp recommended)
- 8 large eggs
- 2½ cups half-and-half
- 6 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- ¼ cup maple syrup
Instructions
Instructions:
Prepare the Baking Dish:
- Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.
Assemble the Strata:
- Arrange half of the cubed bread in the dish.
- Distribute the diced cream cheese and apples over the bread layer.
- Add extra raisins if desired.
- Top with the remaining bread cubes.
Prepare the Custard Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, half-and-half, melted butter, and maple syrup until fully combined.
Combine and Refrigerate:
- Pour the custard over the layered bread, ensuring all pieces are soaked.
- Gently press down with a spatula to submerge the bread.
- Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Bake the Strata:
- Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
- Remove the strata from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while the oven preheats.
- Bake uncovered for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
Serve:
- Let the strata rest for 10 minutes before serving.
- Cut into squares and drizzle with extra maple syrup if desired.
Notes
- Nutty Crunch – Sprinkle chopped pecans or walnuts between layers.
- Fruit Swap – Try pears or mixed berries instead of apples.
- Spiced Flavor – Add 1 tsp cinnamon or nutmeg to the custard for extra warmth.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free cinnamon bread.
