If you’re on the hunt for a cozy, utterly irresistible breakfast that brings the warmth of fall right to your kitchen table, this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe is the ultimate delight. Picture thick slices of brioche soaked in a fragrant cinnamon and vanilla custard, pan-fried to golden perfection, then crowned with tender, caramelized apples dusted with cinnamon and sugar. Every bite is a harmonious dance of spice, sweetness, and comforting textures that feels like a gentle hug on a chilly morning. This recipe is straightforward yet packs an incredible flavor punch that will have you craving it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients. Each one plays a key role, from giving that rich custard base to the bread, to adding tender-sweet notes with the apple topping. Having these essentials ready ensures a smooth cooking experience and a breakfast that tastes like it was made with love.
- 4 large eggs: The foundation of your custard, providing richness and binding power.
- 1 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess to perfectly soak the bread slices.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses subtle floral sweetness that elevates the custard.
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Delivers that iconic warm spice flavor that defines this dish.
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg: Offers a gentle earthiness that deepens the spice profile.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar: Brings caramel notes and a touch of molasses sweetness.
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (brioche or challah): Perfect for soaking without falling apart, and adds buttery softness.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter: For cooking both the french toast and the apple topping to golden, flavorful perfection.
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, thinly sliced): The star of the topping—choose tart varieties for balance or sweeter ones for extra indulgence.
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar: Used to caramelize the apples and bring out their natural sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for apples): Adds spice to the apple topping complementing the custard’s flavors.
- Maple syrup for serving: Because everything tastes better with a maple drizzle.
- Powdered sugar (optional): A delicate dusting for that picture-perfect finish.
How to Make Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
Start by whisking together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and brown sugar in a medium bowl. This mix will soak into the bread slices, soaking up all those warm spices and sweetness to create the base of that heavenly flavor.
Step 2: Cook the French Toast
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt one tablespoon of unsalted butter. Dip each thick-cut bread slice into the egg custard, making sure both sides are well coated but not soggy. Place them in the skillet, cooking each side for 2 to 3 minutes until they develop that perfect golden brown crust. Keep the heat steady so the inside cooks through without burning the outside.
Step 3: Sauté the Apples
In a separate pan, melt the remaining tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced apples, toss them with granulated sugar and cinnamon, then sauté for 5 to 7 minutes. You want the apples to soften and caramelize just enough to bring out their natural sweetness while retaining a little bite for texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Garnish
Stack your beautifully golden French toast slices on plates, then pile the warm, cinnamon-scented apples on top. Drizzle everything generously with maple syrup and finish with a light dusting of powdered sugar if you want a fancy touch. The colors, the aromas, and the blend of flavors will truly impress.
How to Serve Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of powdered sugar always makes this dish feel like a special occasion, but if you want to get creative, adding chopped toasted pecans or walnuts can introduce a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Fresh mint leaves also add a fresh contrast with their vibrant color and scent.
Side Dishes
This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe pairs beautifully with crispy bacon or savory breakfast sausages for those who like a salty counterpoint to their sweet morning meal. On a lighter note, a side of Greek yogurt or fresh fruit salad can balance out the richness while keeping things refreshing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a crowd-pleasing brunch, serve the French toast on a large platter with the caramelized apples arranged artfully on top, surrounded by little bowls of maple syrup, nuts, and berries. For a cozy solo breakfast, pile everything high on a single plate and add a dollop of whipped cream or mascarpone for extra indulgence.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (and believe me, you might!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The custardy bread soaks up flavors beautifully overnight, making the next day’s breakfast just as delicious.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked French toast slices separately by layering them between sheets of parchment paper in a freezer-safe bag. The apple topping freezes well too, but it’s best reheated gently to keep its lovely texture.
Reheating
Reheat French toast in a toaster oven or regular oven at low heat to keep it crisp instead of soggy. Warm up the apples in a skillet or microwave until just heated through. Combining warm toast and apples quickly before serving is key to preserving all those cozy flavors.
FAQs
Can I use other types of bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Brioche and challah are recommended because they soak up the custard without falling apart, but you can also try thick-cut sourdough or country bread. Just avoid thin or crusty breads that may get soggy too fast.
What’s the best type of apple to use?
Tart apples like Granny Smith add nice acidity and balance the sweetness, while sweeter apples like Fuji or Honeycrisp bring more natural sugary notes. You can mix varieties for a more complex flavor.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
For a vegan twist, substitute eggs for flax eggs and use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Swap butter for coconut oil or vegan butter. Keep in mind the texture will change slightly but still be delicious!
How far ahead can I prepare the apple topping?
You can make the cinnamon apple topping a day in advance and store it covered in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving to preserve softness and flavor.
Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Definitely! The sweet cinnamon-spiced apples and creamy French toast are usually a huge hit with kids. Adjust spices if needed and consider cutting portions into fun shapes to make breakfast even more appealing.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that transforms any morning into a celebration of flavors and comfort. It’s easy to make but feels indulgent and special, perfect for lazy weekends or impressing loved ones. Once you taste the harmony of cinnamon, caramelized apples, and buttery bread, this recipe will likely become a cherished staple in your breakfast repertoire.
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
A cozy and delicious Cinnamon Apple French Toast recipe featuring thick-cut bread soaked in a spiced custard and topped with sautéed cinnamon apples, perfect for a comforting fall breakfast or weekend brunch.
Ingredients
Custard 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 (divided)
Cinnamon Apples
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
To Serve
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare Custard Mixture: In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and brown sugar until fully combined and smooth.
- Cook French Toast: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Dip each slice of thick-cut bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides thoroughly. Place the coated bread slices on the heated skillet and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and slightly crisp. Repeat with the remaining bread slices, adding more butter as needed to prevent sticking.
- Sauté Cinnamon Apples: In a separate pan, melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add the peeled, cored, and thinly sliced apples to the pan. Sprinkle the apples evenly with granulated sugar and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Sauté the apples for approximately 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and have a light caramelized coating.
- Assemble and Serve: Stack the cooked French toast slices on serving plates. Spoon the warm cinnamon sautéed apples generously on top. Drizzle with maple syrup and, if desired, dust with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness and presentation. Serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Use brioche, challah, or any thick country-style bread for best custard absorption and texture.
- For added flavor complexity, use tart apples like Granny Smith or mix different apple varieties.
- You can prepare the cinnamon apple topping in advance and gently reheat before serving.
