Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 2 cups peeled and diced apples; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing); Powdered sugar (for serving)

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Recipes

I've always loved a cozy breakfast that starts my day off right, and Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast does just that. The aroma of cinnamon and fresh apples fills my kitchen as it bakes, making it nearly impossible to resist. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also perfect for lazy weekends or special occasions with family and friends. It's a delightful twist on classic French toast that I know everyone will enjoy. Trust me, you'll want to make this again and again!

Created by

Lavinia Moore

Last updated on 2026-02-07T20:29:36.065Z

When I first set out to create this Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast, I wanted to play with traditional flavors that remind me of the fall season. I experimented with both fresh apples and a touch of brown sugar to enhance the natural sweetness. The combination creates a perfect contrast with the custardy bread. A tip I learned is to let the bread soak in the custard for at least 15 minutes to really absorb those wonderful flavors.

Creating the perfect balance of spice and sweetness was key. I found that adding a bit of nutmeg along with the cinnamon made it extra special. I also like to top it off with a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving. This dish truly is the ultimate comfort food and a fantastic way to impress guests at brunch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, fragrant cinnamon paired with sweet, tender apples
Decadent yet simple enough for any breakfast gathering
Perfectly golden edges with a soft, custardy center

Choosing the Right Bread

When it comes to the base of your Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast, choosing the right bread is crucial. Brioche or challah are ideal due to their rich, buttery flavor and soft texture, which absorb the custard beautifully. If you're looking for a slightly healthier option, a whole grain or sourdough bread can add a nice, nutty flavor while still performing well in this recipe. Just make sure to slice the bread thickly; thinner slices may become overly soggy during the soaking process.

If you find yourself without brioche or challah, don't fret! A sturdy white bread or even a cinnamon raisin bread will work as an alternative. Just keep in mind that bread with added spices or fruit may slightly alter the flavor profile, but it can provide a wonderful twist that keeps things interesting. Aim for bread that is a day or two old, as it will soak up the custard without falling apart.

Custard Consistency Matters

Achieving the right custard consistency is vital for the perfect French toast. When whisking together the eggs, milk, and spices, look for a smooth, homogenous mixture that's glossy rather than lumpy. This ensures that the eggs are fully integrated, avoiding any curdled bits while baking. If you notice small clumps at the edges, try using a hand blender for a few seconds—it will create a velvety custard that envelops the bread evenly.

Pay attention to the custard-to-bread ratio. You want each slice generously coated but not swimming in liquid. If you find that your bread is not soaked enough after 15 minutes, allow it to rest a bit longer — 20 to 30 minutes can further enhance its flavor and moistness. Remember to gently press down on the bread with a spatula to encourage even absorption, especially for thicker slices.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients for Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast

1 loaf of brioche or challah bread
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
2 cups peeled and diced apples
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for greasing)
Powdered sugar (for serving)

Make sure to have all ingredients on hand before you begin!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious dish:

Prepare the Bread

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

Make the Custard

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

Combine with Apples

Fold in the diced apples into the custard mixture, then pour the mixture evenly over the bread slices in the baking dish.

Let It Soak

Allow the bread to soak in the custard for at least 15 minutes so the flavors can meld.

Bake

Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.

Serve

Dust with powdered sugar before serving, and enjoy warm!

Delight in the aroma as this meal bakes!

Pro Tips

For an added touch, consider drizzling maple syrup over the top before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best aspects of Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast is its make-ahead potential. You can prepare the custard and bread dish the night before, cover it tightly with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. This overnight soaking allows the flavors to deepen, resulting in an even tastier breakfast. Just remember to take it out about 30 minutes before baking to let it come to room temperature; this helps achieve that golden, crisp top when baked.

If you're looking to save time in the morning, consider prepping individual servings in muffin tins or ramekins. This allows for quick portion control and easier serving, especially if you're hosting a brunch. Simply divide the custard-bread mixture evenly and adjust the baking time down to about 15-20 minutes.

Serving Suggestions

Serving your Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast can be as simple or elaborate as you like! A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful presentation. Fresh whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream can elevate this dish into a decadent dessert worthy of any occasion. For an extra layer of flavor, drizzle with a warm maple syrup or a homemade caramel sauce — both complement the cinnamon and apples wonderfully.

Don't hesitate to add fresh fruit or nuts as a topping. Chopped walnuts or pecans add a delightful crunch, while slices of banana or fresh berries contribute a burst of freshness. You could also serve it alongside a light yogurt parfait for a balanced breakfast spread that offers both indulgence and nutritious options.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of bread?

Yes, you can use any type of bread, but brioche or challah provides the best texture.

→ How can I make it ahead of time?

You can prepare the dish the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Just bake it in the morning!

→ What type of apples work best?

I recommend using firm apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp for a nice tartness.

→ Can this be frozen?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap before freezing.