Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Introduction

Apple Cinnamon French Toast is a cozy and comforting breakfast that brings together the warm flavors of spiced apples, cinnamon, and golden-brown French toast. Imagine slices of bread soaked in a rich custard mixture, cooked to perfection, and topped with tender cinnamon-spiced apples. This dish is perfect for special occasions or a leisurely weekend breakfast that feels like a hug in every bite.

I first made this on a chilly weekend morning, and the smell of cinnamon and caramelized apples filled the house, making it impossible for anyone to sleep in. What makes this dish so special is how versatile it is—you can use any bread you have on hand, from brioche to sourdough, and customize the spices to your liking. Serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or a dusting of powdered sugar for that perfect finishing touch.

Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday brunch or treating yourself to a slow Sunday breakfast, Apple Cinnamon French Toast is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Perfect for:

• Weekend brunch
• Holiday breakfasts
• Breakfast in bed
• Family gatherings
• Cinnamon and apple lovers

Why You’ll Love This Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Here’s why Apple Cinnamon French Toast will become your go-to breakfast dish:

• Warm and Comforting: The combination of apples and cinnamon makes this dish feel like fall on a plate.
• Custardy and Soft: The soaked bread has a soft, custardy center with a slightly crispy exterior.
• Easy to Customize: You can switch up the bread, add nuts, or even make it dairy-free.
• Quick to Make: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for a special breakfast without much fuss.
• Perfect for Sharing: It’s an ideal dish for feeding a group, whether it’s for brunch or a cozy family breakfast.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 8g, Carbs: 40g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make Apple Cinnamon French Toast:

For the French Toast:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or your preferred milk)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
• 8 slices of bread (brioche, challah, or French bread work best)
• Butter for cooking

For the Apple Topping:

• 2 large apples (peeled, cored, and sliced)
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
• 1 tablespoon water

Ingredient Highlights

• Bread: Brioche or challah is ideal for its soft texture and slight sweetness, but any sturdy bread works well.
• Apples: Use a firm variety like Granny Smith for a tart flavor or Honeycrisp for a sweeter option.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm spices complement the apples perfectly and add depth to the flavor.
• Butter: Adds richness to the apple topping and helps the French toast achieve a golden-brown crust.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make Apple Cinnamon French Toast:

Prepare the Apple Topping:

1. Sauté the Apples: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized. Add a tablespoon of water if needed to create a saucy consistency. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the French Toast:

2. Whisk the Custard: In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.
3. Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for about 5-10 seconds on each side. Ensure the bread is fully coated but not too soggy.
4. Cook the French Toast: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter and cook each slice of bread for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

Assemble and Serve:

5. Top the French Toast: Arrange the cooked French toast on a plate and spoon the warm apple topping over it.
6. Garnish: Drizzle with maple syrup or sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra sweetness. Add a dollop of whipped cream if desired.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Apple Cinnamon French Toast is versatile and can be served in several ways:

• Classic Brunch: Pair it with bacon, sausage, and scrambled eggs for a hearty breakfast spread.
• With a Side of Fruit: Serve with fresh berries or a fruit salad to add a touch of freshness.
• For Dessert: Top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a decadent dessert version.
• Holiday Special: This dish fits right into any holiday breakfast or brunch menu.
• On-the-Go: Cut into smaller pieces, wrap them up, and take them with you for a quick and delicious breakfast.

Additional Tips for Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Here are some tips for the best Apple Cinnamon French Toast:

• Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better without getting too soggy.
• Don’t Rush the Soaking: Give each slice enough time to absorb the custard, but don’t let it sit too long or it may fall apart.
• Cook on Medium Heat: This ensures the toast cooks evenly without burning on the outside.
• Make the Topping First: The apples can be kept warm while you prepare the French toast, making it easier to assemble everything at once.
• Add a Crunch: Sprinkle toasted nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, over the apple topping for extra texture.
• Use Different Fruits: Pears or peaches make great alternatives to apples for a seasonal twist.

Recipe Variations for Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Here are 10 fun ways to switch up Apple Cinnamon French Toast:

• Caramel Apple French Toast: Drizzle caramel sauce over the apple topping for an extra indulgent treat.
• Cinnamon Roll French Toast: Add a swirl of cream cheese glaze on top.
• Apple-Pecan French Toast: Sprinkle toasted pecans over the apple topping for added crunch.
• Maple-Glazed French Toast: Use maple syrup as a glaze for the apples instead of brown sugar.
• Pumpkin Spice French Toast: Add a dash of pumpkin pie spice to the egg mixture for a fall-inspired version.
• Berry-Apple French Toast: Add fresh or frozen berries to the apple topping for a fruity twist.
• Almond Apple French Toast: Garnish with slivered almonds and a dusting of powdered sugar.
• Vegan French Toast: Use a plant-based milk and a flaxseed egg substitute for a vegan-friendly option.
• Gluten-Free French Toast: Use gluten-free bread and ensure the other ingredients are gluten-free.
• Overnight French Toast Casserole: Prepare everything the night before and bake it as a casserole in the morning.

Freezing and Storage for Apple Cinnamon French Toast

• Freezing: French toast can be frozen for up to 2 months. Place cooked slices on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a zip-top bag. Reheat in a toaster or oven.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Special Equipment for Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Here are some tools that will make preparing Apple Cinnamon French Toast easier:

• Non-stick Skillet or Griddle: Ensures even cooking and a golden crust.
• Whisk: For mixing the custard mixture.
• Shallow Dish: Ideal for soaking the bread in the custard.
• Spatula: Helps flip the bread without tearing it.
• Apple Peeler/Corer/Slicer: Makes prepping the apples quick and easy.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Ensures accurate measurements for the best results.
• Cooling Rack: Prevents sogginess by allowing the toast to cool slightly.

Frequently Asked Questions for Apple Cinnamon French Toast

1. Can I use a different fruit for the topping?
   Yes, pears, peaches, or mixed berries work well as alternatives to apples.
2. What’s the best bread for French toast?
   Brioche, challah, and French bread are the best choices, but you can use any sturdy bread you prefer.
3. Can I make this dairy-free?
   Yes, use a non-dairy milk and dairy-free butter for a dairy-free version.
4. How do I reheat French toast?
   Reheat it in a skillet over medium heat, in a toaster oven, or in the microwave for a quick option.
5. Can I make this recipe in advance?
   Yes, you can prepare the apple topping and custard mixture the night before. Store them separately, and assemble everything in the morning.

Print

Conclusion

Apple Cinnamon French Toast is a warm, comforting dish that’s perfect for any breakfast or brunch occasion. Thick slices of bread are soaked in a rich cinnamon-spiced custard, then cooked to golden perfection and topped with tender, caramelized apples. The result? A mouthwatering blend of flavors and textures that’s hard to resist.

This cozy recipe is great for everything from a holiday breakfast to a laid-back weekend at home. Serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

I’d love to see how your Apple Cinnamon French Toast turns out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—I can’t wait to see your delicious creation. Happy cooking!