Apple Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Baked French Toast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of day-old French bread, cut into cubes; 3 medium apples, peeled and sliced; 4 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/4 cup granulated sugar; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons butter

Highlighted under: Simple Cooking

I absolutely love starting my mornings with this Apple Baked French Toast. It’s the perfect blend of warm baked bread and sweet, tender apples, making every bite a delightful experience. Preparing it the night before allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring a tasty breakfast with minimal effort. With just a few ingredients, this dish transforms into a comforting meal that feels indulgent, yet it’s simple enough for any day of the week. Trust me, once you try it, this will be your go-to breakfast recipe!

Created by

Flora Kensington

Last updated on 2026-02-08T04:09:36.268Z

Making this Apple Baked French Toast has become a cherished tradition in my home. The first time I baked it, the aroma of cinnamon and apples filled the kitchen, instantly making everyone eager for breakfast. I realized that allowing the bread to soak overnight really enhances the flavors, resulting in a custard-like texture that’s simply irresistible.

One of my favorite tips is to use stale bread, as it absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a lovely, moist dish. It’s versatile too; I often switch up the apples based on what I have on hand. Each variation brings a unique twist to the recipe!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The warm, comforting aroma of baked apples and cinnamon fills the kitchen.
A custardy texture that’s both indulgent and satisfying.
Perfect for weekend brunches or special occasions with minimal prep.

      

The Importance of Day-Old Bread

Using day-old French bread is key to achieving the perfect texture for this dish. Fresh bread tends to absorb the custard mixture too quickly, leading to a soggy outcome. Day-old bread has a firmer structure that allows it to soak up the custard while still holding its shape. If you only have fresh bread on hand, slice it and let it sit out for a few hours to dry out slightly before using it in the recipe.

Another great option is to slightly toast the fresh bread cubes in the oven before assembling the dish. Simply arrange the cubes on a baking sheet and toast at 300°F (150°C) for about 10-15 minutes until lightly golden. This will provide a slightly firmer texture and enhance the overall flavor when baked.

Choosing the Right Apples

The type of apple you choose for this baked French toast can significantly impact the flavor and texture. Apples with a balance of sweet and tart, such as Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, work exceptionally well. These apples hold their shape during baking, providing a pleasant bite. Avoid using overly soft varieties like McIntosh, as they can turn mushy and lose their distinct flavor.

When preparing your apples, ensuring they are evenly sliced will help with uniform cooking. Aim for slices about a quarter-inch thick, allowing them to soften and caramelize nicely while maintaining a bit of texture. You can also toss the apples in a little lemon juice to enhance their flavor and prevent browning before layering them into the baking dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best things about this Apple Baked French Toast is that it can be prepared ahead of time. If you're making it for a special occasion like a brunch, prepare the dish the night before, cover it well, and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This resting period allows the bread to fully absorb the custard mixture, resulting in a custardy texture that can't be matched.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place individual portions in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through, or microwave in 30-second intervals until hot. This dish also freezes well; wrap individual servings tightly and store for up to a month, making it an easy breakfast option for busy mornings.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Apple Baked French Toast.

Ingredients

1 loaf of day-old French bread, cut into cubes
3 medium apples, peeled and sliced
4 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons butter

Make sure to have everything set before you start prepping for a smoother cooking experience.

Instructions

Follow these steps to whip up your Apple Baked French Toast.

Prepare the Bread and Apples

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed French bread and sliced apples. Gently toss to mix them together and place them in a greased baking dish.

Make the Custard Mixture

In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined. Pour this mixture evenly over the bread and apples, pressing down lightly to ensure everything is soaked.

Add the Topping

In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar and butter until crumbly and sprinkle it over the top of the soaked bread. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.

Bake

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and bake for 40 minutes until the top is golden and the custard is set. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Apple Baked French Toast warm and topped with your favorite syrup!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, sprinkle some chopped walnuts or pecans on top before baking. They add a delightful crunch!

Serving Suggestions

This Apple Baked French Toast can be served on its own, but I love to add a drizzle of warm maple syrup or a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Fresh whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt can also enhance the dish, adding a creamy contrast to the warm baked apples and cinnamon.

For a bit of sophistication, consider garnishing with some chopped nuts or toasted coconut flakes. They will add a delightful crunch, complementing the soft, custardy texture. Fresh fruit, such as berries or banana slices, also makes for a lovely serving option, adding brightness and color to your breakfast table.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with your flavor combinations! For added depth, try mixing in dried fruits like raisins or cranberries with the apples, or substitute half the apples with pears for a different twist. Adjust the spices too; a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of caramel sauce can elevate the flavor profile beautifully.

If you're looking for a dairy-free version, almond or oat milk can be used in place of regular milk. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread instead of the French bread while maintaining the same soaking and baking method, ensuring all your guests can enjoy this delightful dish.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue that can arise when making baked French toast is a custard that hasn’t set properly. This can happen if the mixture isn't given enough time to soak or if it's baked at too low a temperature. Make sure to press down on the bread when you pour the custard over it and always bake it at the prescribed temperature until it’s golden and firm in the center.

If you find the top is browning too quickly before the custard sets, cover the dish loosely with aluminum foil halfway through baking. This will allow the custard to cook through without burning the top. Remember that every oven is different, so keeping an eye on it for visual cues will help you achieve the best results.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this recipe in advance?

Absolutely! It’s best to prepare it the night before and let it soak in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

→ What type of bread works best?

Day-old French bread or brioche works great, as they absorb the custard well.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, you can freeze the baked French toast. Just store it in an airtight container, and reheat in the oven when you're ready to enjoy it.

→ What toppings can I add?

Top it with maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra treat!