Description
Delight in the warm and comforting flavors of this Apple Cinnamon French Toast recipe. Thick slices of brioche or challah bread are soaked in a spiced custard mixture and cooked to a golden brown. Topped with tender, caramelized apples cooked with brown sugar and cinnamon, this dish is perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread
- 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
Custard Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
Caramelized Apples
- 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
- 3 tablespoons butter (for sautéing)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons maple syrup
- Additional butter for cooking
Instructions
- Caramelize the Apples: In a skillet over medium heat, melt 3 tablespoons of butter. Add the peeled and sliced apples, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the apples are tender and caramelized, about 5 to 7 minutes. Stir in the maple syrup and remove from heat.
- Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak and Cook the Bread: Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter. Dip each slice of brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 10 to 15 seconds on each side. Place the soaked bread slices onto the hot skillet and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve the French toast warm, topped generously with the caramelized apple mixture. Optionally, garnish with powdered sugar or a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- For best results, use day-old brioche or challah bread which soaks up the custard without becoming too soggy.
- You can substitute the apples with pears or peaches for a different fruity twist.
- Maple syrup adds a lovely sweetness and helps create a sticky glaze on the apples.
- Adjust the cinnamon and nutmeg amounts to suit your personal taste.
- This dish can be made dairy-free by substituting milk and cream with almond or oat milk and using dairy-free butter.
