Go Back
- 8 slices of thick bread (challah or brioche) - 3 medium-sized apples (peeled, cored, and diced) - 4 large eggs - 2 cups whole milk (or dairy alternative) - 1/4 cup packed brown sugar - 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract - 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (plus extra for garnish) - 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg - 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional) - Maple syrup (for serving) To make Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake, you'll need the right ingredients. I love using thick bread like challah or brioche. They soak up the egg mixture well and add a rich flavor. You'll also need fresh apples, which give a nice crunch and sweetness. Eggs and milk create a creamy base. I recommend whole milk, but any dairy alternative works too. Brown sugar adds depth, while vanilla and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg bring warmth to the dish. If you want some crunch, add walnuts. Maple syrup is a must for serving. It complements the flavors and adds sweetness. Gather these ingredients before you start. Having everything ready makes cooking easier and more fun! - Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). - Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray. - Cube the thick bread slices into 1-inch pieces. - In a bowl, mix the diced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. - Layer half of the bread cubes in the greased dish. - Spread the apple mixture evenly over the bread. - Add the rest of the bread cubes on top of the apple layer. - In a bowl, whisk eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. - Pour this egg mixture over the layered bread and apples. - Cover the dish with aluminum foil and let it sit for 15 minutes. - This helps the bread soak up the flavors. - After 15 minutes, remove the foil and bake for 35-40 minutes. - Look for a golden brown top and a firm center with a slight jiggle. For the best flavor and texture, I love using challah or brioche. These breads soak up the egg mixture well. Their rich taste makes the dish feel special. Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes for even cooking. Use a sharp knife to get clean cuts. This helps each piece soak up the mix evenly. You can boost the flavor by adding extra spices. Try a pinch of allspice or ginger for warmth. A splash of almond extract also works well. If you want to sweeten it differently, consider using maple sugar or honey. These options add unique notes to your bake. Get creative with your toppings! Fresh fruits like berries or sliced bananas add color and flavor. You can also sprinkle powdered sugar on top for a sweet touch. For a fancy look, place the bake on a large platter. Garnish with thin apple slices and cinnamon sticks. This makes your dish ready for any special occasion! {{image_4}} You can easily switch out the apples in this recipe. Try using berries, peaches, or pears instead. Each fruit brings a unique taste. For a twist, mix dried fruits like raisins or cranberries. Just soak them in warm water first to plump them up. This adds flavor and texture to your bake. If you need gluten-free bread, use a suitable loaf made from rice or almond flour. Look for brands that are soft to match the bread texture. For a vegan version, swap the eggs for flax eggs. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit until it thickens. Use almond or oat milk in place of whole milk. These options keep the dish tasty and friendly for everyone. To make this bake even more exciting, add chocolate chips or raisins. They melt and create sweet pockets in every bite. You can also add spices like ginger or allspice for extra warmth. Just a pinch will do! These fun additions will surprise your taste buds and keep you coming back for more. Store any leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps them fresh and tasty. Your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake will last about 3 to 4 days in the fridge. Make sure to cool it to room temperature before sealing it up. You can freeze the bake either before or after cooking. If freezing before baking, cover it tightly with foil. This way, it stays fresh for about 2 months. To freeze after baking, let it cool completely first. Then, wrap it in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. When you want to enjoy your bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight. If you froze it before baking, you can bake it straight from the freezer. Just add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time. To reheat, the oven is your best friend. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the bake in a baking dish and cover it with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm. This keeps the texture nice and soft. If you use a microwave, slice the bake into pieces. Heat for about 30-45 seconds. Check if it’s warm enough. Microwaving may make it a bit soggy, so I prefer the oven. Enjoy your delicious treat again! Yes, you can prepare this dish the night before. Here’s how: - Mix the Ingredients: Follow the recipe until you pour the egg mixture over the bread and apples. - Cover and Chill: Cover the baking dish with foil and place it in the fridge overnight. This helps the bread soak up the flavors. - Baking: The next morning, simply preheat your oven and bake. You might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time. This dish pairs well with many sides. Here are a few ideas: - Fresh Fruit: Sliced bananas, strawberries, or a berry medley add freshness. - Yogurt: A dollop of plain or flavored yogurt adds creaminess. - Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or sausage links provide a savory contrast. - Whipped Cream: A light topping of whipped cream makes it extra special. Look for these signs to check if your bake is ready: - Color: The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp. - Firmness: The center should feel firm but still have a slight jiggle. - Toothpick Test: Insert a toothpick in the center. If it comes out clean, your bake is done. Enjoy making this delightful dish! This apple cinnamon French toast bake combines simple ingredients with easy steps. You can enjoy it with family or friends for any meal. Remember, you can tweak flavors and add your favorite fruits. Storing leftovers is simple too—just follow the tips provided. Try this dish to impress your guests or treat yourself on a cozy day. Happy cooking!

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake

Savor the deliciousness of Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake with this easy recipe! Perfect for brunch or a cozy breakfast, this dish combines thick bread, fresh apples, and warm spices for a comforting treat. Dive into layers of flavor and enjoy the heavenly aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes. Ready to impress your family and friends? Click through to explore this delightful recipe and make your mornings special!
Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Ingredients
  

8 slices of thick bread (challah or brioche are recommended for best results)

3 medium-sized apples, peeled, cored, and diced into small pieces

4 large eggs

2 cups whole milk (feel free to use a dairy alternative if preferred)

1/4 cup packed brown sugar

1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, plus extra for garnish

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for added texture)

Maple syrup, for drizzling when serving

Instructions
 

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Prepare a 9x13-inch baking dish by greasing it with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

    Cut the thick slices of bread into approximately 1-inch cubes. Arrange half of these cubes evenly in the prepared baking dish.

      In a medium bowl, mix the diced apples with 1 tablespoon of brown sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Toss them together thoroughly to ensure the apples are coated and then layer this mixture over the bed of bread cubes in the dish.

        Next, add the remaining bread cubes on top of the apple layer, distributing them evenly.

          In a large mixing bowl, vigorously whisk together the eggs, milk, the remaining brown sugar, vanilla extract, the remaining cinnamon, and nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and fully combined.

            Carefully pour the egg mixture over the bread and apples in the baking dish, making sure to cover all the bread pieces evenly. Use your hands or a spatula to gently press down on the bread to ensure that it absorbs the liquid.

              If you like a bit of crunch, sprinkle the chopped walnuts over the top layer.

                Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and allow it to rest for about 15 minutes. This time helps the ingredients meld and the bread to soak up the flavors.

                  After 15 minutes, remove the foil and place the dish in the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the center is firm with a slight jiggle.

                    Once done, allow the dish to cool for a few minutes before slicing it into squares. Serve warm and generously drizzle with maple syrup.

                      Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 8

                        - Presentation Tips: To elevate your serving, place the French toast bake on a large, decorative platter. Dust the top with powdered sugar and garnish with extra thin apple slices and a few cinnamon sticks for a delightful autumnal display.