Step 1

Lightly grease an 8 1/2-cup (2-liter) casserole dish with butter and set aside. Lay the slices of bread out on a baking rack to allow them to stale a bit while you prepare the custard.

Step 2

In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, nutmeg and salt. Soak half of the bread in the custard for about 20 seconds per side and arrange in the prepared dish so that the slices overlap. Scatter over the grated apple. Soak the remaining bread in the custard and layer over top. Carefully pour any remaining custard over the casserole and cover with a piece of aluminum foil. Transfer the dish to the fridge and allow it to sit for at least 2 hours or up to overnight.

Step 3

When ready to bake, remove the dish from the fridge and preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Bake, covered, for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue to bake until golden brown and set in the middle, 20 to 25 minutes.

Step 4

Serve immediately with the Apple Cider Syrup.

Step 5

Add the brown sugar, cornstarch, cinnamon and nutmeg in a small saucepan and whisk to combine. Whisk in the apple cider and lemon juice and place over medium heat. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently until the mixture has thickened, 5 to 6 minutes. Whisk in the butter and keep the syrup warm over low heat until ready to serve.