Apple Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Baked French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 6 slices of thick bread (like challah or brioche); 2 cups of milk; 4 large eggs; 2 tablespoons of sugar; 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon; 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons of butter, melted; Maple syrup, for serving

Highlighted under: Home Baking Collection

When I first made this Apple Baked French Toast, I was blown away by how effortlessly delicious it turned out. The combination of warm cinnamon, tender apples, and gooey bread creates an irresistible morning treat that’s perfect for cozy brunches or holiday gatherings. I love how easy it is to prepare the night before, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully, so all I have to do in the morning is pop it in the oven. This dish always impresses my guests and leaves my kitchen smelling heavenly!

Created by

Emily Carter

Last updated on 2026-02-08T01:29:36.548Z

As I stood in the kitchen, slicing fresh apples and mixing them with cinnamon, I knew this dish would be special. Each bite of soft, custardy bread paired with tender, spiced apples felt like a warm hug on a chilly morning. The extra layer of vanilla syrup on top was a last-minute idea, and I can't tell you how much it enhanced the overall flavor!

I've found that letting the dish sit overnight allows the bread to soak up the flavors perfectly, making it even more flavorful. If you're in a rush, a quick 30-minute soak will still yield delicious results. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your brunch rotation!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Sweet and tender apples combined with fluffy French toast
Make-ahead convenience for busy mornings
The warm aroma of cinnamon fills the kitchen as it bakes

Perfecting the Bread Choice

The type of bread you use can truly elevate your Apple Baked French Toast. Thick bread varieties like challah or brioche are ideal due to their ability to absorb the milk and egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Look for bread that's a day or two old; it holds up better during soaking compared to fresh bread. If you're inclined towards a healthier version, you could substitute whole grain or oat bread, but be prepared for a heartier texture.

When cutting the bread into chunks, aim for pieces around 1-2 inches. This creates an even distribution in the baking dish, allowing the custard to penetrate thoroughly while ensuring that the edges get a lovely golden crispness as it bakes. Unevenly sized pieces may lead to some parts being mushy while others remain dry.

Choosing the Right Apples

The flavor and texture of your baked French toast can greatly depend on the type of apples you choose. Varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp offer a perfect balance of tartness and sweetness, which complement the cinnamon beautifully. If you prefer a sweeter outcome, Fuji or Gala apples are also excellent choices. Aim to slice the apples thinly, about 1/4 inch thick, for even baking and a delightful tender bite.

When preparing the apples, tossing them in melted butter not only enhances their flavor but helps prevent browning as you prepare them. Don't hesitate to add a sprinkle of nutmeg for additional warmth or a handful of raisins for an unexpected chewy texture in your dish.

Ingredients

Gather these delicious ingredients to create your Apple Baked French Toast:

Ingredients

6 slices of thick bread (like challah or brioche)
2 cups of milk
4 large eggs
2 tablespoons of sugar
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
2 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons of butter, melted
Maple syrup, for serving

Now that you have everything you need, let’s move on to the steps!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Apple Baked French Toast:

Prepare the Bread

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon until well combined. Cut the bread into chunks and place them in a greased baking dish.

Mix Apples

In a separate bowl, toss the sliced apples with the melted butter and a sprinkle of cinnamon. Layer the apple mixture over the bread in the baking dish.

Combine and Soak

Pour the milk mixture evenly over the bread and apples. Gently press down to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or ideally overnight.

Bake

Remove the plastic wrap and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, or until the top is golden and puffed. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving with warm maple syrup.

Enjoy your deliciously fluffy Apple Baked French Toast!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the apple mixture. Also, feel free to experiment with different bread types for varied textures!

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Baked French Toast is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. For a decadent touch, try topping it with a dollop of whipped cream or crème fraîche alongside maple syrup. A sprinkle of toasted pecans or walnuts can add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft, gooey texture. For a hint of freshness, consider serving it with a side of seasonal berries or a citrus salad to balance the warmth and richness.

If you're feeling adventurous, drizzle the finished dish with a homemade caramel sauce for an indulgent dessert twist. Serve it warm straight out of the oven for the best experience, and don’t forget to pair it with freshly brewed coffee or hot apple cider for a cozy breakfast vibe.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! This dish stores beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then cover it tightly with plastic wrap or transfer it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to three days. When ready to reheat, simply warm individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds, or place in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 15-20 minutes until heated through.

For those who like meal prepping, consider assembling the dish entirely and freezing it before baking. Wrap the prepared dish tightly in plastic and then in aluminum foil, and it will keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed the following day. This make-ahead option not only saves time but also allows the flavors to intensify even more as they meld together during freezing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish the night before?

Absolutely! In fact, it's recommended to let it soak overnight for the best flavor.

→ What type of bread works best?

Thick, sturdy breads like challah or brioche work wonderfully, but feel free to experiment with your favorites.

→ Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes! You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Just reheat in the oven for best results.

→ How can I make it gluten-free?

Use gluten-free bread as a substitute, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.