Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake
This baked French toast combines slices of bread soaked in a custard mixture with caramelized apple slices, then baked until golden and crispy on top. The dish features a contrast between a crunchy, caramelized crust and a soft, sweet interior, often infused with cinnamon and accented by tender apples.
Equipment
- Baking dish
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 6 slices bread, preferably brioche or challah cut into cubes or slices
- 3 medium apples peeled and sliced
- 4 large eggs whisked
- 2 cups milk whole or 2%
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon plus extra for apples
- 1/4 cup brown sugar for custard and caramelizing apples
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons butter melted, for greasing baking dish
- optional caramel sauce or maple syrup for drizzling before serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a bit of melted butter to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the bread pieces evenly in the prepared baking dish, creating a comforting base layer.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, ground cinnamon, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until the mixture is smooth and slightly frothy.
- Pour the custard evenly over the bread, making sure each piece is soaking up the mixture. Lightly press down the bread to help it absorb.
- Spread the sliced apples over the soaked bread, arranging them so they sit on top and touch the custard layer. Sprinkle some additional cinnamon and a little brown sugar over the apples for caramelization.
- Bake the dish in the oven for about 40–45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy, and the custard is set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. The house will smell warm and cinnamon-scented while the top crisps up further as it cools slightly.
- Serve slices topped with a drizzle of caramel sauce or maple syrup, if desired, to add extra sweetness and a glossy finish.
Notes
For an extra crunch, sprinkle chopped nuts or oats on top before baking. To make it dairy-free, use plant-based milk and omit butter.