Baked Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe

Fall is in the air, and there’s nothing quite like indulging in a cozy breakfast that captures the essence of the season. The Baked Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe perfectly combines the sweetness of baked apples, the warmth of cinnamon, and the comforting goodness of French toast. This dish is not only a fantastic way to begin your day but also a hit during holidays and family gatherings. In this blog post, we’ll dive into the origins of this delightful recipe, provide you with a detailed ingredients list, step-by-step directions, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!

The Origins of the Recipe

The tradition of baking bread into a custard-like dish can be traced back to ancient times, with records of similar preparations found in various cultures. French toast itself dates back to the Roman Empire, where it was known as “Pan Dulce.” However, the combination of baking fruit with bread as a breakfast dish is a more modern creation, emerging in North America, particularly during the early 19th century. Apples, being a staple fruit in American kitchens due to their versatility and availability, made their way into breakfast recipes. The addition of cinnamon—a spice that has historically been used for both flavor and preservation—elevated the dish, creating what we now know and love as Baked Apple Cinnamon French Toast.

Ingredients for Baked Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Below is the list of ingredients you’ll need to serve 4-6 people:

Step-by-Step Directions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Baked Apple Cinnamon French Toast:

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

Step 2: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.

Step 3: Cut the French bread into 1-inch thick slices. If it’s a day or two old, even better! Stale bread holds up well in this recipe.

Step 4: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.

Step 5: Layer half of the bread slices in the greased baking dish, followed by half of the sliced apples. Pour half of the egg mixture over the layers. Repeat with the remaining bread, apples, and then pour the rest of the custard mixture on top.

Step 6: Lightly press down on the bread and apple layers to ensure everything is coated in the egg mixture. Sprinkle additional cinnamon on top for extra flavor.

Step 7: For added sweetness, you can sprinkle brown sugar on top of the dish.

Step 8: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight. This allows the flavors to meld and the bread to absorb the custard.

Step 9: Bake the covered dish in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

Step 10: Remove from oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it warm, drizzled with maple syrup or topped with whipped cream if desired!

FAQs

1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the dish the night before, cover it with foil and refrigerate, and then bake it in the morning. This helps the flavors meld effectively.

2. What types of apples are best for baking?

Fruits like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji apples work well for baking due to their firmness and balanced sweetness. It’s a good idea to use a mix of sweet and tart apples for complex flavors!

3. Can I customize the ingredients?

Yes! Feel free to add nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunch or substitute any milk alternative, such as almond or oat milk, for a dairy-free version.

Whether you’re enjoying a lazy Sunday morning or hosting a festive brunch, this Baked Apple Cinnamon French Toast Recipe is sure to impress. The delightful aroma of baking apples and cinnamon will beckon everyone to the breakfast table. Please share your thoughts and variations in the comments below, and enjoy every bite of this seasonal delight!