Description
This Caramel Apple Waffle Bake is a cozy, indulgent breakfast or dessert dish featuring layers of crispy frozen waffles, tender diced apples, and luscious caramel sauce. The custard-like base of milk, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla binds it all together when baked to golden perfection, creating a sweet, comforting casserole that’s perfect for a weekend treat or special occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Waffle Bake Layers
- 4 cups of frozen waffles, cut into quarters
- 3 cups diced apples
- 1 cup caramel sauce
Custard Mixture
- 1 cup milk
- 4 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the waffle casserole.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
- Cut Waffles: Cut the frozen waffles into quarters to make layering easier and create bite-sized portions in the bake.
- First Layer: Arrange half of the waffle pieces evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish as the base layer.
- Add Apples: Spread half of the diced apples evenly over the layered waffles to add sweet and tart fruitiness.
- Drizzle Caramel: Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apples, allowing it to seep into the layers for sweetness.
- Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining waffle quarters, diced apples, and caramel sauce to build up the casserole.
- Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined to create a flavorful custard.
- Pour Custard: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the layered waffles, apples, and caramel, ensuring it covers the layers.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is lightly golden.
- Cool and Serve: Remove from oven and let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving to allow it to firm up slightly and enhance the flavors.
Notes
- For extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on top before baking.
- You can substitute fresh apples with frozen diced apples if fresh are unavailable.
- Use a dairy-free milk alternative and egg substitute to make it vegan-friendly.
- Serve with extra caramel sauce or a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
- Make sure waffles are frozen, not thawed, to maintain texture during baking.
