There is something undeniably magical about starting your day with warm, comforting flavors, and this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe delivers exactly that in every bite. Imagine thick, fluffy slices of brioche soaked in a fragrant cinnamon-egg custard, then topped with tender, caramelized apples that add a sweet and slightly spicy twist. It’s a breakfast that feels both indulgent and wholesome, perfect for cozy mornings when you want to treat yourself or impress your guests. This recipe is straightforward but yields impressive results that bring joy to the breakfast table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering a handful of simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to create this extraordinary Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from the rich texture of brioche bread to the warm spices that elevate the flavor and the sweet, buttery apples that bring it all together beautifully.
- 8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread: Their soft yet sturdy texture soaks up the custard perfectly without falling apart.
- 3 large eggs: They provide richness and structure to the custard that envelops the bread.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess to the custard mixture for tender French toast.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a sweet, aromatic depth to the custard.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus more for apples): The key spice that ties the apple and toast flavors together harmoniously.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the sweet and spicy flavors in the dish.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for frying): Essential for cooking the apples and crisping the toast to a golden finish.
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced: The star of the topping; their natural sweetness caramelizes into a luscious topping.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Balances the tartness of the apples with rich sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds warm spice complexity to the apple mixture.
How to Make Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Apple Mixture
Start by melting 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the thinly sliced apples along with brown sugar, a dash of cinnamon, and ground nutmeg. Cook this fragrant mixture for about 10 minutes, occasionally stirring, until the apples soften and become caramelized to perfection. This step is what elevates the whole dish by adding a sticky-sweet, spicy topping that complements the French toast beautifully. Once done, set it aside while you prepare the custard.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a roomy bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This luscious custard is what will soak into your bread slices, giving them that airy, custardy inside while crisping up golden on the outside. The cinnamon and vanilla infuse the custard with warmth and sweetness that are simply irresistible.
Step 3: Soak the Bread
Take each slice of brioche or challah and dip it into the custard mixture, allowing it to absorb the liquid for a few seconds on each side. You want the bread fully saturated, but be careful not to let it get too soggy so it holds its shape. This soaking step is crucial because it allows the custard to permeate the bread, creating a French toast that’s rich and tender without collapsing during cooking.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle to medium-low, adding a pat of butter to melt. Once the pan is ready, place the soaked bread slices down gently. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side until the bread is beautifully golden brown and cooked through. Cooking over medium-low heat ensures the custard inside sets perfectly without burning the exterior. The smell at this stage is enough to make anyone eager for breakfast!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Plate your French toast slices and generously pile the warm caramelized apple mixture on top. If you love an extra cinnamon kick, sprinkle a little more cinnamon over everything. This finishing touch brings a cozy aroma and flavor that makes the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe truly unforgettable.
How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can take your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe to the next level. Freshly chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts add a lovely crunch that contrasts the soft texture. A dusting of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup adds sweetness and visual appeal. For a light freshness, a sprig of mint or a few fresh apple slices on the side brighten every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair your French toast with simple sides that complement its warm sweetness. Crispy bacon or sausage links bring a savory balance, while a bowl of fresh berries injects some tart juiciness. If you want something heartier, scrambled eggs or a side of Greek yogurt help round out the meal with proteins and creaminess.
Creative Ways to Present
Presentation makes everything more delicious, so try stacking your French toast slices into a neat tower and layering the caramelized apples between each piece for an eye-catching breakfast centerpiece. For a rustic look, serve the toast open-faced on a wooden board. Or, for a brunch party, set up a toppings bar with nuts, syrups, and fresh fruits so everyone can personalize their Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers from this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe, gently cool them to room temperature before storing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They should stay fresh for up to 2 days, making them a great option for next-day breakfasts.
Freezing
To enjoy your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe later, you can freeze the cooked slices by laying them flat on a baking sheet and freezing until solid. Then, transfer to a freezer bag or container. They keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for quick mornings when you want a comforting breakfast with minimal effort.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen or refrigerated French toast in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the bread soggy. Reheat the caramelized apples gently on the stove or microwave to restore their softness before adding on top.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are ideal for their tenderness and ability to soak up custard, you can use thick-cut white bread, sourdough, or even cinnamon swirl bread. Just ensure the slices are thick enough to hold the custard without falling apart.
Can I make the apple topping ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caramelized apple mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Gently reheat it before serving to bring back that warm, gooey texture.
Is there a dairy-free version of this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe?
You can easily substitute the whole milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative for cooking the apples and French toast. The flavors will still shine wonderfully!
What’s the best way to prevent the French toast from getting soggy?
Make sure not to soak the bread for too long in the custard. A quick dip is enough to saturate it without making it mushy. Cooking over medium-low heat also helps the toast crisp up nicely outside while staying soft inside.
Can I add other fruits besides apples?
Definitely! Pears or peaches work well when cooked in a similar caramelized manner with cinnamon and nutmeg. Fresh berries added as a topping also complement the flavors beautifully for a fresh twist.
Final Thoughts
There is nothing quite like the comforting embrace of this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe to brighten your morning. From its golden, custardy foundation to the sweet, spiced apple topping, every bite feels like a warm hug for your taste buds. Whether you’re making weekend brunch or a special occasion breakfast, this recipe is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen. Give it a try and watch how quickly it becomes a favorite for everyone at the table!
Print
Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A cozy and delicious Apple Cinnamon French Toast recipe featuring thick brioche or challah bread soaked in a cinnamon-spiced egg custard, pan-fried to golden perfection, and topped with warm, caramelized apples infused with brown sugar and nutmeg. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch for four servings.
Ingredients
Bread and Custard
- 8 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Apple Topping
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for frying)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Additional cinnamon for sprinkling
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Mixture: In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, a dash of cinnamon, and nutmeg. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes until the apples are soft and caramelized. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Soak the Bread: Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds on each side, ensuring the bread is fully saturated but not falling apart.
- Cook the French Toast: Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add a little butter, and once melted, place the soaked bread slices in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the French toast is golden brown and cooked through.
- Assemble and Serve: Serve the French toast hot, topped with the warm cinnamon-apple mixture. If desired, sprinkle a little more cinnamon on top for extra flavor.
Notes
- Use thick slices of brioche or challah for the best texture and flavor.
- Be careful not to over-soak the bread to prevent it from falling apart during cooking.
- You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup in the apple mixture for a different sweetness level.
- Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
- Adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a drizzle of maple syrup on top can enhance the dish further.
