Apple Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Baked French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, sliced; 2 cups milk; 4 large eggs; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 cups apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work great); 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional); Maple syrup for serving

Highlighted under: Baking Joy

I absolutely love starting my day with a hearty breakfast, and this Apple Baked French Toast is a phenomenal way to do just that! Each bite brings a warm and cozy blend of sweet apples, cinnamon, and vanilla. It's so easy to prepare the night before and let it bake in the morning. The delightful aromas wafting through the kitchen are unbeatable, making it a perfect choice for weekend gatherings or a simple indulgent breakfast at home.

Created by

Rhea Bennett

Last updated on 2026-02-08T08:01:36.151Z

When I first made this Apple Baked French Toast, I was amazed by how simple yet flavorful it turned out. I decided to soak the bread overnight, allowing it to absorb all that delicious custard mixture. The result? A perfectly tender and custardy interior with a golden-brown top that offers just the right amount of crunch. To bring out the best flavors, I used a blend of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples.

The next time I made it, I added a sprinkle of nutmeg, which elevated the whole dish with a lovely warmth. Don’t skip the maple syrup drizzle before serving; it ties all the flavors together beautifully. This breakfast is an instant crowd-pleaser!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and apple
Easy to prepare ahead for effortless mornings
Perfect for any occasion, from weekday breakfasts to holiday brunches

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of bread is crucial for the texture of Apple Baked French Toast. A challah or brioche bread is recommended due to its rich flavor and soft, airy structure. This type of bread absorbs the custard mixture beautifully, resulting in a creamy interior while still retaining a slight firmness on the outside after baking. If you're looking for a healthier option, whole grain bread can work too, though it might yield a denser result.

Fresh apples not only add sweetness but also a pleasant tartness that balances the dish. I recommend using a mix of Granny Smith and Honeycrisp apples for a well-rounded flavor. Granny Smith provides a zingy contrast, while Honeycrisp brings in natural sweetness. Make sure to slice the apples thinly for even distribution across the bread, which ensures that every bite is infused with apple flavor.

Preparing Ahead for Maximum Flavor

Overnight soaking is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. If you soak the bread in the custard overnight, it allows the bread to absorb all those delightful flavors completely. This time also helps soften the bread, preventing it from becoming too chewy. If you’re in a rush, aim for at least a 30-minute soak; just keep an eye on the bread to make sure it doesn’t get mushy—you're looking for a custard that has penetrated the bread without it disintegrating.

If you’re planning to serve this dish at a gathering, consider using individual ramekins for a more personalized presentation. Fill each ramekin with a portion of the soaked bread and apples, then bake them individually. This method can reduce baking time slightly, so check them after around 30 minutes for that gorgeous golden top and set custard.

Ingredients

For the French Toast

1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, sliced
2 cups milk
4 large eggs
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon salt
2 cups apples, peeled and sliced (Granny Smith and Honeycrisp work great)
1 tablespoon lemon juice

For Topping

1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Maple syrup for serving

Mix the diced apples with lemon juice to prevent browning and incorporate them into the dish by layering.

Instructions

Prepare the Bread

In a large bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Arrange the bread slices in a greased baking dish, overlapping slightly. Pour the custard over the bread, ensuring each piece is soaked. Top with the sliced apples.

Soak and Refrigerate

Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for best results.

Bake

Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the cover and sprinkle the nuts on top if desired. Bake for 45 minutes until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

Serve

Let it cool slightly before serving. Drizzle with maple syrup, and enjoy!

This dish can also be frozen for up to two months – just reheat in the oven before serving.

Pro Tips

For a gourmet touch, serve with whipped cream or a dusting of powdered sugar on top.

Serving Suggestions

Serving Apple Baked French Toast with a drizzle of warm maple syrup is exquisite. For a richer experience, I love adding a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. You can also sprinkle some powdered sugar on top right before serving for an elegant touch. Decorative toppings, like additional apple slices or a sprinkle of cinnamon, will not only enhance the flavor but also elevate the visual appeal of the dish.

This dish pairs beautifully with a side of crispy bacon or sausage for added protein. If you're feeling adventurous, consider complementing it with a fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast to the warm toast. Adding a little citrus, like orange or grapefruit, can brighten the overall experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, you can store Apple Baked French Toast in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, place it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, until warmed through. This method helps maintain its texture, ensuring that it stays fluffy instead of turning rubbery in the microwave.

Alternatively, to make this dish ahead of time for meal prep, you can freeze individual portions. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then place them into a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored well for up to two months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as per the original instructions. This makes it incredibly easy to enjoy a delicious breakfast any day of the week!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the bread with gluten-free bread, and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use other fruits instead of apples?

Absolutely! Peaches, berries, or even pears would work well.

→ How do I reheat the baked French toast?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through.