Apple Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Baked French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 8 slices of thick bread (challah or brioche work well); 3 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon cinnamon; 2 large apples, cored and thinly sliced; Butter for greasing the baking dish; Optional: powdered sugar for serving

Highlighted under: Simple Baking Favorites

I always look forward to the mornings when I can make Apple Baked French Toast. It combines the comfort of classic French toast with the sweet, warm flavor of baked apples. Preparing this dish is not only a delightful experience but also a great way to impress family and friends. The layers of bread soaked in a rich custard and topped with cinnamon-spiced apple slices create a cozy breakfast that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly easy to whip up. Trust me, once you try this, you’ll want it for every brunch occasion.

Created by

Pippa Lawson

Last updated on 2026-02-07T18:17:35.447Z

Making Apple Baked French Toast has become a cherished weekend tradition in my home. I found that combining lightly toasted bread with a blend of eggs, cream, and spices creates a custard-like texture that holds the flavors of the apples beautifully. What surprised me was how the simple act of baking allowed the flavors to meld perfectly while giving the toast a beautiful golden crust.

One of my favorite tips is to let the dish sit overnight in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavor but makes breakfast on busy mornings a breeze! Just pop it in the oven when you wake up, and in half an hour, you're ready for a delicious meal.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A delightful combination of sweet baked apples and rich custard
Perfectly crisp on the outside while soft on the inside
A deliciously easy recipe that can be prepared ahead of time

Crafting the Perfect Custard

The custard mixture is the heart of this baked French toast, providing a rich, creamy texture that soaks into the bread. Be sure to whisk the eggs vigorously until they are fully combined, achieving a homogenous mixture that ensures even custard distribution. If you prefer a richer custard, you can replace a portion of the milk with heavy cream, giving the dish a more decadent flavor. Remember, the fresher the eggs, the better the overall taste.

Once your custard is ready, let it sit briefly to allow the flavors to meld before using. This time can enhance the vanilla and cinnamon notes, giving your baked French toast additional depth. My tip is to taste the custard mixture before adding it to the bread; adjust the sweetness with more brown sugar if desired. A spoonful adds a delightful complexity that will shine through in each bite.

Layering for Success

Proper layering is crucial when preparing your Apple Baked French Toast to ensure an even distribution of flavors and textures. Start by using sturdy bread, as it will hold up better against the custard soaking process. Thicker slices of challah or brioche are ideal, as they create a delightful contrast with the tender baked apples. Layering in this manner not only enhances flavor but also creates visually appealing stratification, making for a stunning brunch centerpiece.

When adding the apple slices, I recommend using a mix of tart and sweet apples, such as Granny Smith and Honeycrisp, to create a balanced flavor profile. Arrange them artfully for an attractive presentation, ensuring that some slices are peeking through the top layer. This will caramelize beautifully in the oven, providing not just an indulgent taste but also a lovely color contrast once baked.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best aspects of Apple Baked French Toast is its make-ahead capabilities. After arranging the layers, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Allowing it to soak overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a creamier texture once baked. This convenience makes it a perfect choice for busy mornings or hosting brunch gatherings without the morning rush.

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for quick enjoyment or place the whole dish back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Additionally, this dish can be frozen before baking, making it a great option for meal prepping. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as instructed for a fresh, warm breakfast.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a delightful Apple Baked French Toast:

Ingredients

8 slices of thick bread (challah or brioche work well)
3 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 large apples, cored and thinly sliced
Butter for greasing the baking dish
Optional: powdered sugar for serving

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready for a seamless cooking experience!

Instructions

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

Prepare the baking dish

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter.

Make the custard mixture

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

Layer the ingredients

Place half of the bread slices in the prepared baking dish. Then, layer half of the sliced apples over the bread. Pour half of the custard mixture over this layer. Repeat with the remaining bread, apples, and custard.

Let it soak

For best results, cover the dish and let it sit for at least 30 minutes to an hour, or overnight in the refrigerator.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and fluffed up. Serve warm with powdered sugar, if desired.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Apple Baked French Toast!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, you can add chopped nuts or dried fruits to the layering process for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Baked French Toast can be served with a variety of delightful toppings to elevate your breakfast experience. Drizzle warm maple syrup over the top for a classic touch, or consider a dollop of whipped cream for an indulgent treat. Fresh berries or a sprinkle of chopped nuts can add contrast in both flavor and texture, bringing additional freshness and crunch to each bite.

For an extra flair, consider adding a dusting of powdered sugar just before serving. Not only does this enhance the visual appeal, creating a beautiful rustic aesthetic, but it also offers a touch of sweetness that complements the apple flavors perfectly. A side of yogurt or crème fraîche can introduce a tangy contrast that balances the dish's sweetness beautifully.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with your Apple Baked French Toast by incorporating different spices or fruits. For a fall-inspired twist, add a pinch of nutmeg or ginger to the custard mixture. Alternatively, you can swap out the apples for pears or berries based on what’s in season, each bringing their unique flavor and texture. Using seasonal fruits not only enhances taste but also makes this dish versatile year-round.

If you're looking for a healthier version, consider using whole-grain bread and reducing the amount of sugar. You can also substitute almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option and try adding a layer of spinach or mixed berries for an extra nutritional boost. Each of these variations can shift the flavor profile while keeping the dish's essence intact.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! In fact, letting it sit overnight in the refrigerator can enhance the flavors.

→ What type of bread is best for this recipe?

Thick bread like challah or brioche works best as they soak up the custard without becoming soggy.

→ Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute apples with pears, berries, or even bananas.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for best results.