Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Published: October 30, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comforting flavors: The combination of caramelized apples and cinnamon creates a warm and inviting dish.
Versatile serving options: Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even dessert; it suits various occasions effortlessly.
Easy to prepare: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe accessible for all skill levels.
Customizable toppings: Enhance your French toast with whipped cream, maple syrup, or powdered sugar based on your preferences.
Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy this delicious meal, making it a hit at family gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To create your Apple Cinnamon French Toast, you’ll need some essential tools to streamline the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet or griddle
Mixing bowl
Whisk
Spatula
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet or griddle: Ensures even cooking and browning of the French toast for that perfect golden finish.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the custard ingredients smoothly without any lumps.
Whisk: Helps achieve a well-blended mixture of eggs and milk, ensuring a creamy custard consistency.

Ingredients

For the French Toast:
* 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, sliced into 1-inch thick slices
4 large eggs
1 cup whole milk (or half-and-half for richer custard)
¼ cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
¼ teaspoon nutmeg
Pinch of salt
2 tablespoons butter (for frying)*

For the Apple Topping:
* 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
3 tablespoons butter
¼ cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
2 tablespoons maple syrup

Optional Garnish:
* Powdered sugar
* Whipped cream
* Extra maple syrup

How to Make Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Step 1: Make the Apple Topping

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the apple slices along with brown sugar and cinnamon. Cook these ingredients for about 5–7 minutes until the apples are tender and caramelized. Stir in maple syrup and keep the mixture warm on low heat.

Step 2: Prepare the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until smooth. This step ensures that all flavors meld together perfectly.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture for about 10–15 seconds per side to soak it well. Place these soaked slices onto the skillet and cook them for about 2–3 minutes per side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Add more butter as needed between batches to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Plate your cooked French toast slices generously. Spoon warm cinnamon apples over the top. For an added touch of sweetness, dust with powdered sugar and drizzle extra maple syrup if desired. Serve warm with whipped cream for an indulgent finish.

How to Serve Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Serving Apple Cinnamon French Toast can elevate your breakfast experience. Consider these delightful suggestions to enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish.

Classic Toppings

Powdered Sugar: A light dusting adds sweetness and visual appeal.
Maple Syrup: Drizzle over the top for an extra layer of flavor.
Whipped Cream: Adds a creamy texture that complements the cinnamon apples.

Fruit Pairings

Fresh Berries: Strawberries or blueberries provide a tart contrast to sweetness.
Sliced Bananas: Add creaminess and additional sweetness to every bite.
Citrus Segments: Oranges or mandarins give a refreshing zing.

Beverage Options

Coffee: A warm cup pairs perfectly with the comforting flavors of French toast.
Tea: Herbal or spiced teas offer a soothing complement.
Fresh Juice: Orange or apple juice brings brightness to the meal.

How to Perfect Apple Cinnamon French Toast

To achieve the best results, keep these tips in mind while preparing your Apple Cinnamon French Toast.

Use Stale Bread: Older bread absorbs custard better, preventing sogginess.
Whisk Thoroughly: Ensure eggs and milk are blended well for a smooth custard mixture.
Control Heat Level: Cook on medium heat to avoid burning while ensuring thorough cooking.
Soak Properly: Allow each slice to soak for 10-15 seconds per side for optimal flavor absorption.
Add Variety of Apples: Mixing different apple types enhances taste and texture in the topping.

Best Side Dishes for Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Pairing side dishes with your Apple Cinnamon French Toast can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:

Bacon or Sausage: Crispy bacon or savory sausage complements the sweetness of the toast perfectly.
Yogurt Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruit for a refreshing contrast.
Breakfast Potatoes: Seasoned roasted potatoes add heartiness to your plate.
Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits provides a light, fresh side that balances richness.
Oven-Baked Eggs: Serve fluffy baked eggs for added protein alongside your sweet dish.
Smoothie Bowl: A vibrant smoothie bowl can be both nutritious and satisfying next to French toast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Apple Cinnamon French Toast can feel straightforward, but small mistakes can lead to a less-than-perfect breakfast. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them:

Using Soft Bread: Fresh bread may become soggy when soaked in custard. Opt for slightly stale brioche or challah for the best texture.
Skipping the Custard Whisking: Not whisking the egg mixture thoroughly can lead to uneven flavor. Ensure all ingredients are well combined for an even custard.
Overcrowding the Skillet: Cooking too many slices at once can lower the skillet’s temperature, resulting in uneven cooking. Fry in batches to achieve perfect golden brown toast.
Not Preheating the Skillet Properly: A cold skillet will not sear the bread correctly. Always heat your skillet before adding butter and toast.
Ignoring Apple Choices: Using soft apples may result in mushy toppings. Choose firm varieties like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for a better bite.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover Apple Cinnamon French Toast in an airtight container.
It will stay fresh for up to 3 days if refrigerated.
Make sure it cools completely before sealing to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Wrap individual slices tightly in plastic wrap or foil.
Place wrapped slices in a freezer-safe bag or container.
It can be frozen for up to 2 months for optimal flavor and texture.

Reheating Apple Cinnamon French Toast

Oven: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Place slices on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat each slice for about 30 seconds, checking frequently.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Add a little butter and warm each slice for 2-3 minutes on each side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Apple Cinnamon French Toast ahead of time?

You can prepare the custard and apple topping ahead of time. Cook the toast just before serving for best results.

What type of apples are best for this recipe?

Firm apples like Honeycrisp, Granny Smith, or Fuji work best as they hold their shape during cooking and provide a nice contrast to the soft bread.

How do I customize my Apple Cinnamon French Toast?

Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as allspice or cardamom, or add nuts and dried fruits for extra flavor and texture.

Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Yes! Gluten-free bread can be used as a substitute. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up during soaking and cooking.

Final Thoughts

Apple Cinnamon French Toast is not just a delicious dish; it’s also versatile enough for any occasion. Whether you’re making it for family brunch or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this recipe is sure to impress. Customize it with your favorite toppings or spices, and enjoy this comforting breakfast treat!