Apple Fritter Breakfast Casserole Recipe
A warm and comforting Apple Fritter Breakfast Casserole made with croissants, apples, cinnamon, and a sweet drizzle—perfect for family mornings or special gatherings.
12 Servings
Ingredients
Base:
- 6 –7 baked croissants cubed
- ½ cup heavy cream
- ½ cup applesauce
- 3 large eggs
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 ½ teaspoons vanilla extract
Apple Mixture:
- 4 large apples peeled and diced
- 5 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 ½ teaspoons cornstarch
- 1 tablespoon water
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Icing:
- ½ cup powdered sugar
- 2 tablespoons heavy cream
- ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
Prepare the baking dish:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. Add the cubed croissants and spread them evenly across the dish.
Cook the apple mixture:
- In a large skillet over medium-low heat, melt the butter. Stir in the brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture becomes smooth. Add the diced apples and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with water, then add this slurry to the skillet. Stir until the mixture thickens, then finish with the lemon juice. Remove from heat.
Prepare the custard mixture:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the heavy cream, applesauce, eggs, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.
Assemble the casserole:
- Spoon the apple mixture evenly over the croissant cubes in the baking dish. Pour the custard mixture over the top, ensuring that all of the bread is coated.
Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 35–40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
Prepare the icing:
- In a small bowl, whisk together the powdered sugar, heavy cream, and vanilla extract until smooth.
Finish and serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for approximately 5 minutes. Drizzle the icing evenly over the top before serving. Enjoy warm.
Notes
To make this recipe gluten free, substitute the croissants with gluten-free croissants or brioche-style bread available at specialty stores or bakeries. Ensure the cornstarch and powdered sugar are certified gluten free to avoid cross-contamination.