Overnight Almond Butter-Apple French Toast Bake

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Overnight Almond Butter-Apple French Toast Bake

Prep: 20 minutes plus chilling and cooling
Bake: 45 minutes • Serves: 12

Nonstick cooking spray
1 loaf (14 ounces) brioche bread, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 Granny Smith apples, halved, cored and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
8 large eggs
1 cup half and half
1/2 cup almond butter
1/2 cup whole milk
1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 cup sliced almonds
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 tablespoons cold unsalted butter (1/2 stick), cut into small pieces
3/4 cup maple syrup
Whipped cream for garnish (optional)

1.Spray 13 x 9-inch baking dish with cooking spray. In large bowl, toss bread and apples; spread in prepared dish. In same large bowl, whisk eggs; whisk in half and half, almond butter, milk and 1/4 cup brown sugar until small pieces of almond butter remain. Pour egg mixture over bread mixture; press down gently with back of spoon to submerge bread. Cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight.

2.Preheat oven to 375°; remove foil. In medium bowl, with back of fork, stir almonds, flour, butter and remaining 2 tablespoons brown sugar until small pieces of butter remain; sprinkle over bread mixture. Bake casserole, uncovered, 45 minutes or until top is puffy and golden brown; cool 10 minutes. Makes about 9-1/2 cups.

3.Cut casserole into 12 squares; serve with maple syrup garnished with whipped cream, if desired.

Approximate nutritional values per serving (1 square French toast, 1 tablespoon syrup):
419 Calories, 21g Fat (7g Saturated), 145mg Cholesterol, 226mg Sodium,
49g Carbohydrates, 3g Fiber, 28g Sugars, 23g Added Sugars, 11g Protein

Smart Swaps:
> Almond butter adds protein and healthy fats, making breakfast more satisfying. Prepare it the night before for a stress-free morning.