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Caramel Apple Waffle Bake Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.1 from 72 reviews
  • Author: Mary
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 8 servings
  • Category: Breakfast Casserole
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

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

  1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to prepare for baking the waffle casserole.
  2. Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and ensure easy serving.
  3. Cut Waffles: Cut the frozen waffles into quarters to make layering easier and create bite-sized portions in the bake.
  4. First Layer: Arrange half of the waffle pieces evenly in the bottom of the greased baking dish as the base layer.
  5. Add Apples: Spread half of the diced apples evenly over the layered waffles to add sweet and tart fruitiness.
  6. Drizzle Caramel: Pour half of the caramel sauce over the apples, allowing it to seep into the layers for sweetness.
  7. Repeat Layers: Repeat the layering process with the remaining waffle quarters, diced apples, and caramel sauce to build up the casserole.
  8. Mix Custard: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined to create a flavorful custard.
  9. Pour Custard: Evenly pour the custard mixture over the layered waffles, apples, and caramel, ensuring it covers the layers.
  10. 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.
  11. 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.