Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of sourdough or brioche bread, cut into thick slices; 4 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup granulated sugar; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Highlighted under: Indulgent Oven Treats

I love starting my mornings with this delightful Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast. It's warm, comforting, and bursting with the sweet flavors of baked apples and fragrant cinnamon. This recipe is perfect for a leisurely brunch or a cozy family breakfast, bringing everyone to the table with its enticing aroma. Plus, it's easy to prepare ahead of time, so you can simply pop it in the oven and relax as it bakes to golden perfection. Trust me, this dish will become a beloved part of your morning routine!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:24:37.489Z

When I first made this Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast for my family, it was an instant hit. The combination of caramelized apples with warm spices creates a symphony of flavors that dances on the palate. The trick I learned is to let the bread soak in the egg mixture overnight; this ensures each slice is thoroughly flavored and bakes up soft and custardy.

After experimenting with different types of bread, I found that using a sturdy sourdough or brioche gives the best texture. The slight tang from the sourdough perfectly complements the sweetness of the apples, making each bite unforgettable. Now, it’s a family favorite that we enjoy during special occasions.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting blend of sweet apples and cinnamon
Perfect for a cozy family brunch or holiday gathering
Easily prepared ahead of time for effortless serving

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bread is crucial for achieving the right texture in this Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast. Sourdough provides a slightly tangy flavor that balances the sweetness of the apples, while brioche adds a rich buttery quality. Both options will absorb the custard mixture beautifully, resulting in a tender interior when baked. If you're looking for a gluten-free alternative, you can use gluten-free bread, but ensure it’s thick enough to hold up during baking.

The apples are the star of the show in this dish, and their type can greatly affect the overall flavor. I recommend using a mix of sweet and tart varieties like Granny Smith and Honeycrisp. The tartness of Granny Smith counteracts the sweetness of the brown sugar topping, creating a delightful contrast. Additionally, when slicing the apples, aim for even thickness so they cook uniformly; slices should be about 1/4 inch thick for optimal tenderness.

Preparation Tips

To save time on the morning you're serving this dish, you can prepare the apple topping and custard mixture the night before. Once you've layered the bread and apples in the baking dish, just cover it tightly with plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the bread to soak up the custard overnight, resulting in a richer flavor and creamier texture once baked. Remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before putting it in the oven to ensure even cooking.

Baking this French toast to perfection requires attention to temperature and timing. Make sure your oven is fully preheated to 350°F (175°C) before placing your dish inside; this helps create a crispy top while keeping the interior moist. Check for doneness by gently shaking the baking dish; the custard should be set but still slightly jiggle. A golden-brown surface will indicate a delicious crispiness that contrasts with the soft apples beneath.

Ingredients

For the French Toast

1 loaf of sourdough or brioche bread, cut into thick slices
4 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1/2 cup granulated sugar
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Topping

3 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Instructions

Prepare the Apple Topping

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon, stirring gently. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are tender. Remove from heat and set aside.

Mix the Egg Mixture

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

Assemble the French Toast

In a greased baking dish, layer half of the bread slices and top with half of the apple mixture. Repeat with the remaining bread and apples. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the top. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

Bake the French Toast

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover from the baking dish and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Serve

Let it cool for a few minutes before slicing. Serve warm with maple syrup, if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra crunch, sprinkle some chopped nuts on top before baking. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an elegant touch!

Serving Suggestions

This baked French toast is delicious on its own, but you can elevate it further with toppings. A drizzle of warm maple syrup enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and cinnamon. For an added layer of richness, consider serving it with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream, especially for a special occasion brunch. Fresh berries also make a lovely addition, providing a pop of color and a refreshing acidity that complements the dish.

For a nutty crunch, sprinkle some chopped pecans or walnuts on top during the last 10 minutes of baking. This creates a delightful contrast in texture and adds an earthy flavor. You can also dust the baked French toast with powdered sugar just before serving for a visually appealing touch.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual slices in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or reheat them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. This helps maintain the texture without making it soggy, which can happen when reheating in the microwave for too long.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked French toast. Wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then place it in the freezer for up to a month. When you're ready to bake it, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight, and then bake as directed; you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time to account for the cold temperature.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the French toast the night before and bake it in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.

→ What type of bread works best?

Sourdough or brioche are ideal for this recipe due to their texture and ability to soak up the egg mixture.

→ Can I use frozen apples?

Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using to avoid excess moisture.

→ Is there a way to make it gluten-free?

Yes, use gluten-free bread in place of the regular loaf, and be sure to check other ingredient labels.