If you’re craving a cozy breakfast with all the warmth of fall flavors, this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe is an absolute must-try. Imagine thick, custardy slices of brioche soaked in a fragrant mixture of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, then topped with irresistibly tender, caramelized apples kissed with brown sugar and just a hint of spice. This dish strikes the perfect balance between comforting sweetness and rich texture, making it the ideal weekend treat or special brunch centerpiece that feels like a hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe is simple yet essential, coming together beautifully to create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. These familiar pantry staples each play a key role, from the creamy custard base to the buttery caramelized apples that crown the dish.
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah): Day-old bread works best for soaking up the custard without falling apart.
- 3 large eggs: The base of your custard that adds richness and structure to the French toast.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to the egg mixture for a tender toast.
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract: Infuses a warm, sweet aroma that elevates the flavor profile.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice adding classic warmth and depth to the custard.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle partner to cinnamon that enhances the complexity.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and highlights the spices.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking): Provides a golden crust and rich flavor when frying the toast.
- 2 apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Sweet and tender, they bring fresh fruity brightness to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Caramelizes with the apples to add gooey sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for apples): Reinforces the warm spiced profile in the topping.
- 1 tablespoon butter (for apples): Helps create the luscious caramel sauce for the apples.
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving: Adds extra sweetness and a touch of elegance.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Start by whisking together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt in a shallow bowl. This aromatic custard mixture is what will soak into your bread slices and transform them into soft, flavorful morsels. Let it come together fully so each element can marry beautifully, promising a rich bite in every forkful.
Step 2: Soak the Bread
Dip each slice of your thick-cut bread into the custard, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. The key here is to give the bread just enough time to absorb the custard without becoming soggy or falling apart. Using sturdy bread like brioche or challah helps the toast hold its shape while still soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Step 3: Cook the French Toast
Heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once melted and hot, add the soaked bread slices. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. This step is crucial for creating that perfect balance of crispy edges and soft, custardy centers that make French toast so irresistible.
Step 4: Caramelize the Apples
While the French toast cooks, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon, stirring them occasionally as they cook. After 5 to 7 minutes, the apples should be tender and caramelized, developing a luscious, slightly sticky coating that brings sweetness and a touch of spice to the dish.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
To serve, pile the warm cinnamon apples on top of the golden French toast. Drizzle generously with maple syrup and dust with powdered sugar if desired. Every bite offers a delightful contrast between the soft, spiced toast and the sweet, caramelized apples, making it a breakfast that feels indulgent yet perfectly balanced.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Add a bit of flair and extra flavor to your Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe by garnishing it with chopped toasted pecans or a dollop of freshly whipped cream. These touches add crunch and creaminess, making it feel even more special and decadent. A sprinkle of powdered sugar never fails to bring a lovely finishing touch and that classic breakfast look.
Side Dishes
Pair this hearty delight with crisp bacon or a side of savory breakfast sausages to create a well-rounded meal. Fresh fruit like berries or a simple yogurt parfait adds a burst of freshness and balances the richness on your plate. If you want to keep it simple, a steaming cup of coffee or chai tea perfectly complements the warm spices in the French toast.
Creative Ways to Present
For brunch gatherings, serve this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe on a large platter with apples arranged artfully on top and small bowls of maple syrup and whipped cream for guests to customize. Layering slices into a French toast casserole format is another fun option to impress friends, and it even saves time when serving a crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To keep the apples fresh, store them separately in a small container, then reheat them together when ready to enjoy. This way, you preserve the best texture and flavor for your next morning treat.
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well, making it perfect for meal prep. Arrange cooked French toast slices in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze the caramelized apples separately in a small container. They’ll keep well for up to 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat your frozen French toast in a toaster oven or oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through and crisp again. Heat the apples gently in a saucepan over low heat or microwave them briefly. Avoid microwaving the French toast directly, which can make it soggy rather than maintaining that lovely golden crust.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are recommended for their texture and flavor, you can try thick slices of sourdough, French bread, or even hearty whole grain bread. Just make sure the bread is somewhat stale so it soaks up the custard nicely without falling apart.
What kind of apples work best for the caramelized topping?
Firm apples like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji hold their shape well when cooked and provide a nice balance of tartness and sweetness. These varieties caramelize beautifully and won’t turn mushy during cooking.
Is this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegetarian-friendly, featuring no meat or animal-derived ingredients besides eggs and dairy. It’s perfect for a vegetarian breakfast or brunch option that still feels rich and satisfying.
Can I make this dish vegan?
To make a vegan version, substitute eggs with a flax or chia egg mixture, use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace butter with a vegan spread or coconut oil. The caramelized apples can be prepared the same way using these swaps to keep the flavors delicious.
How far ahead can I prepare the components?
You can prepare the custard mixture and slice the apples the night before for easy assembly in the morning. The caramelized apples can be made a day ahead and gently reheated. For best results, cook the French toast fresh to preserve its texture and flavor.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe brings all the cozy, sweet comforts of fall right to your breakfast table. It’s the kind of dish that makes mornings feel special, turning simple ingredients into a celebration of warm spices and caramel goodness. Trust me, once you try this, it might just become your new go-to for weekends or anytime you want to treat yourself and those you love. So go ahead, grab your skillet, and savor every delightful bite.
Print
Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Cinnamon Apple French Toast recipe combines thick-cut bread soaked in a spiced egg mixture, perfectly cooked on the stovetop, with warm, caramelized cinnamon apples for a comforting and indulgent breakfast treat. The sweet apples add a delicious autumnal twist, making this dish a delightful way to start your day.
Ingredients
French Toast Mixture
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (such as brioche or challah)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
Cinnamon Apples
- 2 apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter (for apples)
For Serving
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of thick-cut bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side, ensuring the bread absorbs the flavorful mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Melt 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and the bread is cooked through.
- Caramelize the apples: While the French toast cooks, melt 1 tablespoon of butter in a separate skillet over medium heat. Add the peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples along with brown sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir occasionally and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples become tender and caramelized.
- Assemble and serve: Plate the cooked French toast slices, top generously with the warm cinnamon caramelized apples, drizzle with maple syrup, and dust with powdered sugar if desired for an extra touch of sweetness.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best results as it holds up better when soaked in the egg mixture.
- Try adding chopped pecans or a dollop of whipped cream on top for extra indulgence and texture.
