1. Preheat your oven to 375 F (190 C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Slice the brioche or challah bread into 1-inch thick “sticks.” Arrange the bread sticks in a single layer in the prepared baking dish.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, vanilla extract, and nutmeg until well combined and frothy.

3. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread sticks in the baking dish. Gently press down on the bread to ensure each piece is thoroughly coated and soaking up the liquid. Let it sit for about 5-10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the custard.

4. While the bread is soaking, in a separate small bowl, combine the diced apples, melted butter, brown sugar, and the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon. Toss gently until the apples are evenly coated.

5. Scatter the apple mixture evenly over the soaked bread sticks in the baking dish. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the French toast is golden brown, puffed up, and the apples are tender. The center should be set, not liquidy.

6. Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. The French toast sticks will be warm and fragrant, ready for a drizzle of maple syrup.