French Toast Strata with Apples, Raisins, and Walnuts
A delightful, maple-flavored baked French toast casserole packed with tender apples, plump raisins, and crunchy walnuts, this French Toast Strata recipe from Yankee Magazine is a must-try for breakfast enthusiasts. The sweet aroma of cinnamon and nutmeg, combined with the richness of maple syrup, creates a comforting dish perfect for special occasions or leisurely weekend mornings. This recipe serves six, with a luscious combination of flavors and textures that will have everyone coming back for more.
Total Time: 1 Hour 30 Minutes
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Chill Time: 2 to 24 hours
(Chilling time is not included in the total cooking time.)
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Butter or margarine | 1/2 cup |
| Cooking apple (peeled, cored, and diced) | 2 medium |
| Seedless raisins | 1 cup |
| Walnuts (chopped) | 1/2 cup |
| Granulated sugar | 1/4 cup |
| Ground cinnamon | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Ground nutmeg | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Sour cream | 1 cup (divided) |
| Eggs | 6 large |
| Milk | 1 1/2 cups |
| Maple syrup | 1/4 cup |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 518.6 kcal |
| Fat | 26.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 11.3 g |
| Cholesterol | 247.1 mg |
| Sodium | 380.8 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 57.8 g |
| Fiber | 3.2 g |
| Sugars | 28 g |
| Protein | 14.8 g |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the bread into 1/2-inch thick slices, then cut each slice in half. Set the bread slices aside for layering.
-
Cook the Apples:
- In a medium nonstick skillet, melt the butter or margarine over medium-high heat. Add the diced apple and sauté for about 3 minutes, or until the apples begin to soften. Remove the skillet from the heat once the apples are tender but still holding their shape.
-
Mix the Fruit and Nuts:
- To the skillet with the apples, stir in the raisins, walnuts, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Add 1/2 cup of the sour cream and mix well to combine all the ingredients. Set aside to cool slightly.
-
Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a separate bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, maple syrup, and the remaining 1/2 cup of sour cream. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well-blended.
-
Grease the Baking Dish:
- Butter a 10-inch pie plate or a 9-inch square baking dish generously, ensuring the sides and bottom are well-coated.
-
Layer the Strata:
- Place half of the prepared bread slices in the bottom of the greased baking dish, ensuring they fit snugly. Spread the apple and sour cream mixture evenly over the bread slices. Top with the remaining bread slices, arranging them to cover the apple mixture completely.
-
Add the Egg and Milk Mixture:
- Pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and apple layers, ensuring it soaks through evenly. Gently press down on the bread with a spoon to help the liquid absorb.
-
Chill the Strata:
- Cover the baking dish with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or up to 24 hours. This chilling time allows the bread to absorb the egg mixture, ensuring a perfectly custardy texture when baked.
-
Bake the Strata:
- Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). Once the strata has chilled, remove it from the refrigerator and uncover it. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 50 to 60 minutes, or until the strata is set and golden brown on top. The center should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the pan.
-
Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the strata to cool for about 10 minutes before cutting into squares or wedges. This helps the casserole firm up slightly, making it easier to serve.
-
Serve:
- Serve warm, with an extra drizzle of maple syrup if desired, and enjoy the delightful combination of tender bread, juicy apples, sweet raisins, and crunchy walnuts in every bite.
Tips for Success
- Bread Selection: Choose a hearty bread, such as challah or brioche, for a soft, rich texture that absorbs the egg mixture beautifully. Day-old bread works best, as it will soak up the custard without becoming too soggy.
- Make Ahead: This dish is ideal for making ahead, especially for busy mornings. Prepare the strata the night before and let it chill overnight for an effortless breakfast the next day.
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the recipe to suit your taste. Add or substitute different fruits, such as pears or dried cranberries, or swap out the walnuts for pecans or almonds.
Keyword: French Toast Strata, Breakfast Casserole, Maple French Toast, Apple Raisin Strata, Baked French Toast, Breakfast, Oven Casserole, Easy Breakfast Casserole, Overnight French Toast Strata
This French Toast Strata with apples, raisins, and walnuts is a comforting and delicious breakfast or brunch dish that everyone will love. The sweet maple flavor combined with the heartiness of apples and nuts makes for a wonderful morning treat. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or just treating your family to a flavorful breakfast, this recipe is sure to impress!
