If you are craving a breakfast that feels like a warm hug from the inside out, this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe is your new best friend. Imagine thick slices of golden brioche or challah soaking up a fragrant custard of cinnamon and vanilla, then topped with tender, caramelized apples spiced with nutmeg and brown sugar. Each bite offers a perfect harmony of crispy edges, soft centers, and sweet, spiced fruit that will brighten any morning. This dish effortlessly transforms simple ingredients into an indulgent, cozy brunch centerpiece that tastes like fall on a plate all year round.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may seem familiar, but each plays a crucial role in building the flavor and texture that make this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe so irresistible. From the custard soak to the caramelized apples, every element enhances the overall experience.
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (brioche or challah): Their rich texture and slight sweetness absorb the custard beautifully without falling apart.
- 2 eggs: The foundation of the custard to create a silky coating for the bread.
- 1/2 cup milk: Adds creaminess and helps tenderize the bread as it soaks.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Provides a fragrant warmth that rounds out the cinnamon notes.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The star spice that gives this recipe its iconic flavor.
- 1 tablespoon butter: Perfect for cooking the apples and French toast to a golden, luscious finish.
- 1 large apple (peeled, cored, thinly sliced): Fresh, crisp apples bring natural sweetness and a slight tang, perfect for balance.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Adds depth and caramelizes beautifully with the apples.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: A subtle spice that enhances the apple’s warmth without overpowering.
- Maple syrup and powdered sugar: Optional but highly recommended to drizzle and dust on top for extra sweetness and a pretty presentation.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the custard mixture
Begin by whisking together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon in a shallow bowl. This spiced custard is what infuses the bread with flavor and moisture, creating that melt-in-your-mouth sensation that makes French toast so special. Make sure it’s well combined so the cinnamon is evenly distributed.
Step 2: Caramelize the apples
While the custard rests, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, and nutmeg. Cook gently for 5 to 7 minutes until the apples soften and the sugar bubbles into a luscious caramel glaze. This step builds a warm, fragrant topping that adds a delightful contrast to the rich French toast.
Step 3: Soak the bread
Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak up the liquid evenly. Make sure both sides are coated but don’t let it get soggy to avoid falling apart later. Using day-old bread here helps it hold up nicely while absorbing the custard.
Step 4: Cook the French toast
Heat a lightly greased griddle or skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked bread slices and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and slightly crisp on the edges. The contrast between the crispy crust and the tender inside is what makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser every time.
Step 5: Plate and top
Serve the French toast immediately, topped generously with the warm cinnamon apples. Add a drizzle of maple syrup and a light dusting of powdered sugar to elevate the flavors and presentation. This final flourish makes the dish feel truly special and ready to impress.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like a sprinkle of finely chopped mint can add a surprising pop of freshness, while a few toasted pecans or walnuts provide a nice crunch that complements the soft textures. Don’t forget the classic powdered sugar dusting and a warm drizzle of pure maple syrup to tie everything together with sweetness.
Side Dishes
This French toast pairs beautifully with crisp bacon or sausage for a savory balance. If you prefer to keep it vegetarian, a simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette or fresh fruit salad brings brightness and freshness to the plate. Yogurt with a swirl of honey or granola also makes a great companion for an even more substantial brunch spread.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, stack the French toast slices like a layered cake with apple compote in between each layer. Alternatively, serve the caramelized apples on the side in a small ramekin so everyone can add as much as they like. Using a cast-iron skillet for plating also adds rustic charm, perfect for cozy weekend mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any leftover French toast should be cooled completely and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 2 days without losing too much of its texture or flavor, but it’s best enjoyed fresh whenever possible.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked French toast slices by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This helps prevent sticking and keeps them fresh for up to one month. Freeze the caramelized apples separately in a sealed container to maintain their texture.
Reheating
To reheat, use a toaster oven or regular oven set to 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and slightly crisp again. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make the bread soggy. Warm the caramelized apples in a small pan on low heat before serving to refresh their flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah work best for their richness and ability to absorb the custard, you can also use thick-cut white bread, sourdough, or even a sturdy whole grain bread. Just make sure it’s slightly stale so it doesn’t fall apart when soaked.
What type of apples is best for caramelizing?
Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples are ideal because they hold their shape during cooking and strike the perfect balance between sweet and tart, complementing the cinnamon and brown sugar perfectly.
Can I prepare the cinnamon apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the caramelized apples a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Gently reheat them on the stove before serving to bring back their warm, tender texture.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Swap the milk for any plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and replace the butter with a vegan margarine or coconut oil. The flavor will remain deliciously comforting with these simple substitutions.
Is this recipe suitable for a crowd?
Definitely! The recipe can easily be scaled up by multiplying the ingredients. Keep the custard mixture handy to quickly soak each batch of bread and cook in batches on a large griddle for speedy service.
Final Thoughts
This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe truly transforms a classic breakfast into an enchanting experience full of cozy spices and rich textures. Whether you’re treating yourself on a chilly morning or impressing guests at brunch, this dish delivers comfort and delight in every bite. I encourage you to whip up a batch soon—you deserve a little extra warmth and sweetness in your day!
Print
Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A cozy and delicious breakfast featuring thick-cut bread soaked in a cinnamon-spiced egg mixture, topped with tender caramelized apples and finished with maple syrup and powdered sugar. Perfect for a comforting fall brunch or sweet morning treat.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 4 slices thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah)
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon butter
For the Cinnamon Apples
- 1 large apple (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
To Serve
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined and smooth.
- Caramelize the apples: Heat butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced apples, brown sugar, and nutmeg. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized.
- Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated but not soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Preheat a lightly greased griddle or skillet over medium heat. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Plate the French toast and top with the warm cinnamon apples. Drizzle with maple syrup and lightly dust with powdered sugar before serving.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best results as it soaks up the egg mixture without falling apart.
- You can prepare the cinnamon apples ahead of time and gently reheat them before serving.
- Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples give the best balance of sweetness and tartness for this recipe.
