Apple and Berry Bread Casserole

This delicious Apple and Berry Bread Casserole is a unique blend of fruit and whole-grain goodness. Perfect for a cozy brunch or a dessert, it marries the tartness of cranberries with the sweetness of apples and the rustic charm of seeded bread. The addition of warming spices like cinnamon and honey add a delightful aroma and depth to the dish. This casserole is layered, providing a mix of textures with every bite: soft, caramelized apples at the bottom and crispy, golden-brown bread on top. The preparation process is simple, suitable for both beginner and experienced cooks. Its hearty ingredients make it a wholesome choice for health-conscious eaters without compromising on flavor. Enjoy it warm from the oven or serve it with a scoop of ice cream for an indulgent treat. Its rich taste and comforting flavors make it a must-try recipe for autumn and winter days. The dish is versatile with room for substitutions to cater to a variety of dietary needs.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg of apples
• 600 - 700 g of ZeMaizīte bread (or any whole-grain bread with seeds/berries)
• 100 g of cranberries
• 70 - 100 g of butter
• 1 egg
• 200 ml of milk

Spices and Sweeteners

• Cinnamon
• Brown sugar
• Honey

Preparation Time

Total Time: 80 minutes
Prep Time: 50 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Crumble the bread as finely as possible and set aside.
2. Prepare the Apple Mixture: Peel and dice 5-6 apples into small cubes. Add to a bowl with two handfuls of cranberries, 2 teaspoons of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and a little brown sugar. Toss well to combine.
3. Cook the Mixture: Transfer the apple mixture to a pot. Heat on low until the ingredients have softened and nearly break down completely.
4. Prepare Additional Apples: Thinly slice the remaining 5-6 unpeeled apples. Place them in a bowl and toss with 3 teaspoons of brown sugar.
5. Toast the Bread: Melt 50 g of butter in a pan. Add crumbled bread, the remaining butter, a little brown sugar, and cinnamon. Toast until the bread is golden and crispy.
6. Layer the Casserole: Start layering the casserole dish with the toasted bread at the bottom, followed by the apple-cranberry mixture, then the sugared apple slices, and repeat with another layer of bread on top.
7. Prepare the Custard: In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and milk. Pour this mixture over the layered casserole.
8. Bake the Casserole: Preheat the oven to 200°C (392°F). Bake for 20-30 minutes until the top is golden and the mixture is set.
9. Cool and Serve: Let it cool slightly before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Enjoy warm.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use almond milk or a vegan egg substitute for a dairy-free version.
• Enhancements: Add nuts like walnuts or almonds for an extra crunch.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days.

Nutrition

• Calories: 350-400 per serving
• Protein: 6 g
• Fats: 15 g
• Carbs: 50 g

Variations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread or oats.
• Vegan: Replace butter with vegan margarine and omit the egg.
• Fruit Variations: Substitute apples with pears or peaches for a twist.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt or vanilla ice cream.
• Pair with a cup of spiced chai or rich coffee for a complete dessert experience.

Best Places

• The Apple Barn Cider Mill & General Store - Renowned for its fruit-based desserts.
  Location: 230 Apple Valley Rd, Sevierville, USA.

• Crumbs & Whiskers - Known for cozy, aromatic baked goods.
  Location: 7924 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.

• Rustic Bakery - Specializes in rustic, homemade bread and casseroles.
  Location: 1139 Magnolia Ave, Larkspur, USA.

• Pudding Lane Bakery - Famous for its dessert casseroles with fresh fruits.
  Location: 14 Stoney St, London, UK.

• Pixel & Crumb - Offers delightful fruit and bread combinations.
  Location: 30 Rue de Rivoli, Paris, France.

• Bitter & Sweet Cafe - Celebrated for its apple dishes.
  Location: Koninginneweg 141, Amsterdam, Netherlands.

• Café Landtmann - A traditional Viennese café with a modern twist.
  Location: Universitätsring 4, Vienna, Austria.

• Kaffi Lækur - Serves hearty, comforting dishes amidst a cozy atmosphere.
  Location: Lækurvegur 74, Reykjavík, Iceland.

• Old Town Market Bistro - Famous for its home-style, fruit-based dishes.
  Location: 125 Plaza St, Healdsburg, USA.

• Café Savoy - Known for creative interpretations of classic recipes.
  Location: Vítězná 5, Prague, Czech Republic.