Ready for a warm, cozy, and fruit-filled twist on a breakfast classic? This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe transforms everyday ingredients into a comforting, golden stack layered with tender cinnamon apples. Imagine thick slices of bread soaked in a spiced custard, perfectly cooked until crisp on the outside and fluffy inside, then crowned with sweet, syrupy apples—it’s everything you love about French toast and apple pie, united in one irresistible breakfast. Whether you’re treating the family or indulging in a decadent weekend brunch, this recipe brings autumnal comfort to your table year-round.

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a quick look at our lineup of simple ingredients—all kitchen staples, but each plays a starring role in building the flavor, texture, and beautiful color of this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe. Trust me, small touches like the right kind of bread or a sprinkle of nutmeg make a world of difference.

Eggs: The foundation for that luscious custard base—use fresh, large eggs for best results.
Whole Milk: Adds moisture and richness; for extra decadence, swap in half-and-half.
Vanilla Extract: Brings fragrant, sweet undertones that deepen the overall flavor.
Ground Cinnamon: The signature warming spice—essential for those classic apple-cinnamon notes!
Ground Nutmeg: Just a pinch makes the custard complex and cozy.
Brown Sugar: Infuses the egg mixture with caramel notes and just the right sweetness.
Thick-Cut Bread (such as brioche or challah): The hero of French toast—choose soft, sturdy slices that soak up flavor without getting soggy.
Unsalted Butter: For golden, buttery results every time, both in the pan and with the apple topping.
Apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): The more tart and crisp the variety, the better they hold up—think honeycrisp or Granny Smith.
Maple Syrup: Sweetens the apples naturally, while adding a delightful hint of maple flavor.
Ground Cinnamon (for apples): Doubles up the spice and ties the topping seamlessly into the dish.
Pinch of Salt: Balances the sweetness and brings out all the warm, inviting flavors.

How to Make Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe

Step 1: Make the Custard Mixture

Start by whisking up your custard. Crack the eggs into a medium bowl, add the milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and brown sugar. Mix until the eggs are fully incorporated and the sugar is dissolved—you’ll notice a heavenly aroma right away! Getting this mixture nice and smooth means every slice of bread will be evenly flavored with spice and sweetness.

Step 2: Soak the Bread

Grab your thick-cut bread and dip each slice into the custard, making sure both sides are evenly coated. Don’t rush this step! Allowing the bread a moment to soak ensures the inside turns custardy and soft, but still holds its shape. Set them on a plate as you go so they’re ready for the skillet.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of butter. Carefully lay each slice onto the hot pan. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side—look for a golden, crisp exterior and that unmistakable French toast aroma. Transfer finished slices to a warm plate, and repeat with the remaining bread, adding more butter as needed for each batch.

Step 4: Make the Apple-Cinnamon Topping

Meanwhile, let’s get those apples sizzling! In a separate skillet on medium heat, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter. Add your apple slices, maple syrup, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Saute everything for 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples turn tender and edges start caramelizing. The kitchen will fill with the scent of spiced apples—there’s nothing quite like it.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

To finish your Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe, layer the warm, cinnamon-spiced apples generously over your crisp French toast. Spoon over every last bit of syrup from the skillet, then serve immediately. Each bite is a beautiful balance of crispy, creamy, fruity, and fragrant—the perfect centerpiece for a joyful morning meal!

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe

Garnishes

This dish is already a breakfast showstopper, but a finishing touch always elevates the experience. Try a dusting of powdered sugar, a dollop of whipped cream, or a scattering of toasted pecans or walnuts on top for crunch. A drizzle of extra maple syrup never goes amiss!

Side Dishes

Balance the sweetness with sides like crisp bacon, savory breakfast sausage, or scrambled eggs. For a lighter twist, pair your French toast with fresh berries or a simple yogurt parfait. Either way, the Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe will be the undisputed star of your spread.

Creative Ways to Present

Stack your French toast slices tall and top with a big scoop of apples for a dramatic brunch plate. If hosting a crowd, slice each piece into thirds and arrange as “fingers” with an apple dipping sauce. For kids, cut the toast into fun shapes using cookie cutters before cooking—just don’t forget that glorious apple topping!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, simply cool the French toast and apple topping to room temperature, then store them in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days without losing their lovely texture or flavor.

Freezing

This Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe freezes beautifully for future busy mornings. Lay cooked French toast slices on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a zip-top bag. The apple topping can also be frozen in a separate container. Both will keep for up to a month.

Reheating

For best results, reheat the French toast in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crisp. Microwave the apple topping just until hot, stirring occasionally. Combine and enjoy—it’ll taste just as delicious as day one!

FAQs

What type Breakfast

Brioche and challah are wonderful choices due to their tenderness and ability to soak up the custard. Day-old bread is ideal, as it holds its shape while turning deliciously soft inside.

Can I use a non-dairy milk?

Absolutely! Almond, oat, or coconut milk all work well as substitutes. Just note that the final flavor may vary slightly depending on the milk you choose.

Is this recipe suitable for making ahead?

Yes! You can prepare the custard and apple topping the night before. For extra convenience, soak the bread overnight in the fridge, then cook in the morning for a super easy breakfast.

What varieties of apples are best?

Look for apples that hold their shape when cooked, such as Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji. Tart apples add a lovely contrast to the sweetness of the syrup and custard.

Can I make this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe gluten-free?

Certainly! Use your favorite gluten-free bread—just make sure it’s thick and sturdy enough to soak up the custard without falling apart.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving comfort and a touch of indulgence, there’s nothing quite like treating yourself to this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe. I hope it brings as much joy to your table as it does to mine. Grab your apples, gather your loved ones, and dive into this deliciously spiced breakfast—you’re going to love every bite!

Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe

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4.7 from 17 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this Apple Cinnamon French Toast recipe. Thick slices of bread are soaked in a spiced egg mixture, cooked until golden, and topped with warm caramelized apples for a delicious breakfast treat.

Ingredients

Scale

Egg Mixture:

4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 tablespoon brown sugar

French Toast:

8 slices thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter

Apple Topping:

2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for apples)
Pinch of salt

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Instructions

Egg Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar.
French Toast: Heat a skillet over medium heat, melt butter, dip bread in egg mixture, and cook until golden brown.
Apple Topping: In a skillet, melt butter, add apples, maple syrup, cinnamon, and salt, cook until tender.
Top French toast with apple topping and serve.