Meet your new breakfast favorite: Cinnamon Apple French Toast. With golden, custardy slices of bread topped with sweet and slightly tart sautéed apples, a hint of spice, and a cascade of syrup, this dish is pure comfort in every bite. The combination of fragrant cinnamon, luscious apples, and pillowy toast is everything you want on a crisp morning or for that special weekend brunch. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or treating yourself, Cinnamon Apple French Toast brings the coziest flavors of fall straight to your table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—each ingredient earns its spot, building layers of flavor and texture. Every component—from the bread’s softness to the apples’ caramelized sweetness—plays a vital role in making Cinnamon Apple French Toast utterly irresistible.
- 4 large eggs: The backbone of your custardy soak, eggs give the French toast its signature richness.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess and helps achieve that plush, tender interior.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: For aromatic, bakery-level flavor in every slice.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Warm spice ties together both the custard and apple topping in true autumn style.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers subtle depth, complementing the cinnamon beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Brings gentle sweetness and a molasses note to the custard soak.
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah): Thick bread soaks up all the custardy goodness without getting soggy; plus, it delivers that classic French toast texture.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For perfectly golden toast and luscious sautéed apples.
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced): Choose tart apples like Granny Smith or mix it up for flavor complexity.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Sweetens the apples as they caramelize in the pan.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for apples): Doubles down on that warm spice, making the apples taste like pie filling.
- Maple syrup for serving: The essential finishing drizzle—go real or go home!
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional): Adds a snowy, sweet touch as the final flourish.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Egg Custard
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar until everything is well combined. You want a smooth mixture—think of it as the flavorful bath your bread will soak in. The brown sugar and spices melt right in, infusing your French toast with cozy, sweet warmth.
Step 2: Soak and Cook the Bread
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add a tablespoon of butter. Dip each slice of your sturdy bread into the egg mixture, making sure both sides are coated but not oversoaked. Place the slices on the hot skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, until each is golden brown and lightly crisped. Repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter as you go to keep things deliciously toasty.
Step 3: Sauté the Cinnamon Apples
While the French toast cooks, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter in a separate pan over medium heat. Toss in your sliced apples and sprinkle them with granulated sugar and that extra cinnamon. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft, glossy, and just caramelized at the edges. The smell alone will have everyone running to the kitchen!
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Stack your warm French toast slices on plates, spoon a generous heap of cinnamon apples over the top, and finish with a pour of maple syrup. If you’re feeling fancy, sift a little powdered sugar over everything. Grab a fork and dive right into the Cinnamon Apple French Toast experience!
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple French Toast
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar creates a dreamy dusting that looks as good as it tastes. For extra panache, top your Cinnamon Apple French Toast with a dollop of whipped cream, toasted pecans, or even a thin ribbon of lemon zest. Each garnish adds a festive finish, perfect for special gatherings or just treating yourself.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cinnamon Apple French Toast with crispy bacon, savory breakfast sausage, or a bright fruit salad to balance the sweetness. A hot cup of strong coffee or a creamy glass of chai latte are, frankly, non-negotiable for the coziest brunch vibes.
Creative Ways to Present
Let your creativity shine! Try stacking the French toast slices in a tall, restaurant-style tower, or serve as a French toast “cake” layered with apples in between. For a brunch crowd, create a DIY topping bar with extra fruits, nuts, and syrups so everyone can personalize their portion of Cinnamon Apple French Toast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, wrap cooled slices of French toast tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge. Keep the sautéed apples in an airtight container alongside—they’ll stay fresh for up to three days, making weekday breakfasts a breeze.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze Cinnamon Apple French Toast! Place cooked slices on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to two months. Freeze the apple topping separately in a freezer-safe container, and you’re all set for a quick, hearty meal anytime.
Reheating
To bring your French toast back to life, reheat in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and gently crisp. The apples can be reheated in the microwave or on the stove. Assemble just before serving so everything tastes as fresh as possible.
FAQs
Can I use a different type Breakfast
Absolutely. While brioche and challah are the gold standard for Cinnamon Apple French Toast, any sturdy, thick-sliced bread will work. Day-old bread actually holds the custard even better!
What kind of apples are best?
Tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp are delicious here—they hold their shape and provide contrast to the sweetness. Don’t be afraid to mix apple varieties for a more complex topping.
Is there a way to make it dairy-free?
Yes! Swap whole milk for your favorite non-dairy alternative and use plant-based butter. The result is just as luscious, so everyone can enjoy Cinnamon Apple French Toast.
Can I prepare the apple topping ahead of time?
Definitely. The apple topping can be made a day ahead and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, just gently reheat until warm and gooey.
How do I prevent my French toast from turning out soggy?
Make sure to use thick, slightly stale bread and don’t soak it for too long—just enough for the custard to absorb into the surface. Cooking over medium heat ensures the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
Final Thoughts
If you haven’t tried making Cinnamon Apple French Toast at home, you’re in for a treat. This is the kind of breakfast recipe that brightens your morning and delights everyone at the table. Don’t be shy—whip up a batch, get creative with your toppings, and enjoy every sweet, cinnamon-packed bite!
Print
Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the cozy flavors of fall with this delicious Cinnamon Apple French Toast recipe. Thick slices of bread are soaked in a spiced custard, cooked until golden, and topped with caramelized cinnamon apples. Perfect for a comforting breakfast or brunch!
Ingredients
French Toast:
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 8 slices of thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
Cinnamon Apples:
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and thinly sliced)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Maple syrup for serving
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the French Toast: In a medium bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar. Dip bread slices into the mixture, then cook on a skillet until golden brown.
- Caramelize the Apples: In a separate pan, sauté sliced apples with sugar and cinnamon until tender and caramelized.
- Serve: Stack French toast, top with warm cinnamon apples, drizzle with maple syrup, and dust with powdered sugar.
Notes
- Use brioche, challah, or country-style bread for best results.
- Experiment with different apple varieties for varied flavors.
- Apple topping can be made ahead and reheated.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices with apples
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 280mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 47g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 175mg
