Cinnamon & Apple Baked French Toast - for Mother's Day

As seen on Global Morning Show:
A quick, make-ahead breakfast that's sure to please any mother (or anyone, for that matter)! This recipe feeds approx 8 people. For 4 to 5 portions, simply half the recipe and use and 8x8 inch baking dish.

1 loaf day-old french bread
3 cups milk

1/2 cup sugar
2 TSP vanilla
6 eggs
6 granny smith apples
2 TBSP butter
2 TSP cinnamon
1/2 cup brown sugar
 1 TBSP cinnamon

 Cut bread into one inch slices. Arrange, tightly, in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish (it may not all fit). Set aside.

Mix together the milk, sugar, vanilla & eggs. Set aside.

Peel, core & slice the apples. In a large pan (or two batches), saute the apples in the 2 TBSP butter until softened - approx. 5 minutes. Allow to cool slightly.

Pour half of the custard mixture evenly over the bread. Top with the apples, spreading evenly. Pour over the remaining custard mixture. Wrap in plastic and place in refrigerator overnight.

Next Morning: Preheat oven to 350F. Sprinkle the dish with the 1/2 cup brown sugar mixed with the 1 TBSP cinnamon. Bake for one hour. Allow to cool for 10 minutes before serving. Serve with maple syrup.