Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 6
Ingredients: 1 loaf of bread (preferably brioche or challah); 4 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 1/4 cup butter, melted; Maple syrup for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Collection

I absolutely love starting my mornings with this Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast. It's the perfect blend of sweet and savory that makes my breakfast feel like a special occasion. The warm spices of cinnamon and the tartness of apples create a cozy atmosphere, especially during cooler months. Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also incredibly easy to prepare, as you can assemble it the night before and pop it in the oven the next morning. Trust me, this dish will quickly become a family favorite!

Created by

Matilda Rowe

Last updated on 2026-02-08T07:31:36.326Z

When I first tried making Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast, I was pleasantly surprised by how quickly it came together and how comforting it felt. I had a few leftover slices of bread and some apples that needed to be used, so I decided to experiment. The combination of eggs, milk, and vanilla with cinnamon-infused apples created a beautiful marriage of flavors that was both familiar and exciting.

One tip that changed my baking game was allowing the bread to soak in the egg mixture overnight. This ensured that every bite was soft and custardy, perfect for a weekend brunch with friends and family. Each serving becomes a warm hug on a plate, making it ideal for gatherings or just a wonderful start to the day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, aromatic blend of cinnamon and apples
Easy to prepare ahead of time, perfect for busy mornings
Comforting and satisfying for any breakfast occasion

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bread is crucial in this recipe, as it impacts the texture and flavor of the final dish. Brioche and challah are particularly ideal because their rich, soft crumb absorbs the custard mixture beautifully, ensuring each bite is moist and flavorful. Other types of bread, like sourdough or whole grain, can be used, but they may not provide the same level of sweetness and texture. If you choose a denser bread, consider slicing it thinner to maximize the soaking effect.

Cinnamon adds warmth and fragrance to this dish, complementing the tartness of the apples. Ground cinnamon can be substituted with freshly grated nutmeg for a unique twist, but this will alter the overall flavor profile. For those who prefer a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne or ginger can introduce a delightful surprise. Always be mindful of spice measurements, as too much can overpower the delicate balance of sweet and savory.

Techniques for Perfectly Baked French Toast

Soaking the bread is a key step that allows the custard to infuse flavors deeply and ensures a custardy texture. A recommended soaking time is at least 30 minutes; however, overnight soaking will yield the best results, allowing the bread to absorb the mixture completely. If you notice that the bread isn't fully coated after pouring the custard, simply press down gently on the slices to help them soak up the mixture.

To achieve a golden, crisp top, pour melted butter over the bread before baking. This not only enhances flavor but also helps with browning. If you find that the top isn't browning after the suggested baking time, you can place the dish under the broiler for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning. Just a quick broil will enhance the texture without compromising the integrity of the dish.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start:

Ingredients

1 loaf of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
4 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and diced
1/4 cup butter, melted
Maple syrup for serving

Make sure to have all ingredients ready for the best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious baked french toast:

Prepare the Bread

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cut the bread into thick slices and layer them in a greased baking dish.

Mix the Custard

In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Add Apples

Stir in the diced apples and mix until they are evenly distributed.

Combine and Soak

Pour the egg mixture over the bread slices, ensuring they are well soaked. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

Bake

After soaking, pour melted butter over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Allow to cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup for added sweetness.

Enjoy your Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast with your favorite toppings!

Pro Tips

For added texture, consider topping with nuts or granola just before serving. A dollop of whipped cream can also elevate this dish from great to spectacular!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast is perfect for meal prep! After assembling the dish, you can cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weekends or hosting brunches. Just remember that the longer you soak the bread, the softer and more flavorful it becomes.

If you have leftovers, they can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day; simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warm. You can also freeze the prepared, unbaked dish for up to 2 months. Just thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking, as the frozen custard mixture needs time to absorb into the bread.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While maple syrup is a classic accompaniment, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra touch of indulgence. Sliced bananas or toasted nuts can also provide delightful texture and flavor. For a fruitier option, serve with a side of mixed berries or a fruit compote for brightness and contrast against the warm, spiced toast.

For a festive twist, you can include additional spices such as cloves or cardamom in the custard mixture. You can even stir in a handful of raisins or dried cranberries alongside the apples for added sweetness and texture. If preferred, a similar recipe can be made using pears or peaches, depending on seasonal availability, creating a new variation to enjoy.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute almond milk or coconut milk for the regular milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! Sourdough or whole grain bread can be excellent substitutes for a different flavor and texture.

→ Is it necessary to refrigerate overnight?

Refrigerating overnight helps the bread absorb the custard mixture more fully, resulting in a creamier texture. However, you can still enjoy it after just 30 minutes.