Transform your breakfast table into something extraordinary with this impressive upside-down apple french toast that combines the comfort of classic french toast with the elegant presentation of an upside-down cake. This make-ahead breakfast casserole features tender Granny Smith apples caramelized in a rich brown sugar sauce, layered beneath thick slices of French bread soaked in a creamy custard mixture. When flipped after baking, it reveals a stunning caramelized apple topping that’s sure to wow your family and guests.
Perfect for holiday mornings, special occasions, or weekend brunches, this upside-down apple french toast can be prepared the night before, making your morning routine effortless while delivering restaurant-quality results. The combination of sweet caramelized apples, aromatic spices, and fluffy custard-soaked bread creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that elevates the humble french toast to gourmet status.
Ingredients
For the Caramel Apple Base:
- 1 stick (113g) unsalted butter
- 1 cup (200g) brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) water
- 3 large Granny Smith apples, sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup (75g) raisins, optional
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf French bread, sliced 1/2 inch (1.3cm) thick
- 1 1/2 cups (360ml) milk
- 6 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup (50g) sliced almonds, for garnish
For the Crème Topping:
- 1/2 cup (120ml) whipping cream
- 1/2 cup (120ml) sour cream
- 1/4 cup (50g) granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Caramel Base
In a medium saucepan, combine the unsalted butter, brown sugar, and water. Heat over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture begins bubbling and the sugar dissolves completely. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Remove from heat and immediately pour this caramel mixture into a 9×13-inch (23x33cm) baking dish that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Allow the caramel to cool for 20-30 minutes until it sets but remains slightly warm.
Step 2: Layer the Apples
Arrange the sliced Granny Smith apples over the cooled brown sugar mixture in the bottom of the pan. Place them in neat rows, overlapping slightly to create an attractive pattern. The apples should cover the entire bottom of the pan in a single layer.
Step 3: Add Spices and Raisins
Evenly sprinkle the ground cinnamon and ground nutmeg over the arranged apples. If using raisins, distribute them evenly among the apple slices, pressing them gently into the spaces between the apple pieces.
Step 4: Layer the Bread
Arrange the sliced French bread on top of the seasoned apples, fitting the pieces together like puzzle pieces to cover the apples completely. Slightly overlap the bread slices if necessary to ensure full coverage.
Step 5: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until well combined and no streaks of egg remain. The mixture should be smooth and uniform in color.
Step 6: Soak the Bread
Slowly pour the egg mixture over the arranged bread slices, ensuring that each piece is thoroughly saturated. Use a spoon to press down gently on any bread that isn’t absorbing the mixture. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight, or for at least 3 hours, allowing the bread to fully absorb the custard.
Step 7: Bake the French Toast
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap from the chilled casserole and bake for 60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy, and the center is set when gently shaken.
Step 8: Prepare the Crème Topping
While the casserole bakes, prepare the optional crème topping by combining the whipping cream, sour cream, granulated sugar, and almond extract in a medium bowl. Using an electric mixer, whip the mixture on high speed for 2-3 minutes until it thickens to a light, fluffy consistency.
Step 9: Invert and Serve
Remove the french toast from the oven and let it cool for 5 minutes. Run a knife around the edges to loosen any stuck portions. Place a large serving platter upside down over the baking dish, then quickly and confidently flip both together. Let the dish sit for 2-3 minutes before lifting the baking dish. If any apples remain stuck to the bottom, carefully remove them with a spatula and arrange them on top of the french toast.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Serve immediately while warm, providing a generous dollop of the crème topping on each portion. Sprinkle with sliced almonds for added crunch and visual appeal.
Time and Serving Information
Prep Time: 30 minutes Chill Time: 3 hours (or overnight) Bake Time: 60 minutes Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes Servings: 8-10 servings Serving Size: 1 slice with topping
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 425
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 165mg
- Sodium: 380mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 58g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 42g
- Protein: 12g
- Vitamin C: 4mg
- Calcium: 180mg
- Iron: 2.1mg
Tips for Perfect Upside-Down Apple French Toast
The success of this upside-down apple french toast depends on several key factors. First, choose firm Granny Smith apples that will hold their shape during baking while providing a tart contrast to the sweet caramel. Slice the apples uniformly, about 1/4 inch thick, to ensure even cooking.
When preparing the caramel base, don’t skip the cooling period. If the caramel is too hot when you add the apples, it may cause them to release excess moisture and become mushy. The caramel should be warm but not bubbling when you layer the apples.
For the bread, day-old French bread works better than fresh as it absorbs the custard mixture more effectively without becoming soggy. If your bread is very fresh, you can lightly toast the slices before assembly.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
This upside-down apple french toast is ideal for make-ahead preparation. The assembled casserole can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking, making it perfect for entertaining. For longer storage, you can freeze the unbaked casserole for up to one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, and add an additional 10-15 minutes to the baking time.
Leftover baked french toast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm the entire dish in a 300°F oven until heated through.
The crème topping can be made up to two days in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator. Give it a quick whisk before serving to restore its fluffy texture.
This spectacular upside-down apple french toast combines convenience with elegance, making it the perfect centerpiece for any special breakfast or brunch gathering.