Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast

Name: Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch slices; 6 large eggs; 2 cups milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup brown sugar; 2 tsp vanilla extract; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp salt; 3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1/2 cup rolled oats; 1/4 cup brown sugar; 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened; 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Highlighted under: Sweet Inspirations

I love lazy weekend mornings filled with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples wafting through my kitchen. This Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast has become a family favorite for good reason. It's incredibly easy to prepare, allowing me to spend more time with my loved ones. The combination of soft, custardy bread and vibrant apple chunks topped with a crunchy streusel creates an irresistible harmony of flavors. This dish is perfect for brunch gatherings or special occasions, making every bite feel like a warm hug.

Created by

Brielle Thompson

Last updated on 2026-02-08T03:53:36.282Z

When I first tried making baked French toast, I stumbled upon a delightful combination of apples and cinnamon. The first bite transported me back to cozy fall mornings, and I knew this was a recipe worth sharing. The key to achieving a perfect texture is letting the bread soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes; it ensures that every slice absorbs the flavors beautifully.

As I experimented with variations, I discovered that using a combination of tart and sweet apples creates depth in flavor. Also, don’t skip the crunchy topping; it adds the perfect finishing touch that makes each bite absolutely divine. I promise this dish will impress!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Warm, gooey apples combined with aromatic cinnamon
Easy to make ahead and bake fresh in the morning
A crowd-pleaser that brings everyone together

The Importance of Bread Choice

The type of bread you choose for this baked French toast significantly affects the texture and flavor of the final dish. A sturdy loaf of French bread is ideal because it holds up well when soaked in the custard mixture, preventing it from becoming too mushy. If French bread is unavailable, you can substitute with challah or brioche for a slightly sweeter taste and a softer texture. Additionally, some bakers prefer to use day-old bread to enhance the flavor and absorb more of the egg mixture.

For even better results, consider toasting the French bread slices lightly before assembling the dish. This method helps create a barrier that prevents the bread from becoming overly soggy while still enabling the custard to permeate. The slightly crisped edges offer a delightful contrast in texture, ensuring that each bite of French toast is enjoyable and satisfying.

Perfecting the Crumble Topping

The crumble topping elevates the baked French toast by adding a crunchy layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft and custardy bread. It's important to use softened butter to achieve the right crumbly consistency; if your butter is too cold or melted, it won't incorporate well with the dry ingredients. You should aim for a texture that resembles coarse crumbs. If it gets too buttery, your crumble will lose its texture and become more of a topping than a delightful crunch.

Feel free to customize the crumble topping by adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for an extra layer of flavor and crunch. You can also replace some of the oats with crushed graham crackers or even a bit of shredded coconut for a different twist. Experimenting with these additions will allow you to tailor the dish to your liking and create a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients

Baked French Toast Base

1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch slices
6 large eggs
2 cups milk
1/2 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp salt
3 cups apples, peeled, cored, and diced

Crumble Topping

1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

Prepare the Pan

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter.

Assemble the Base

In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt. Gently fold in the diced apples. Place the slices of French bread in the greased baking dish and pour the egg mixture evenly over the top, ensuring each piece is soaked. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for best results).

Make the Crumble Topping

In a medium bowl, combine flour, oats, brown sugar, cinnamon, and softened butter. Use your fingers to mix until crumbly.

Bake the French Toast

Remove the baking dish from the refrigerator and sprinkle the crumble topping evenly over the soaked bread. Bake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes or until golden brown and cooked through.

Serve and Enjoy

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with maple syrup or powdered sugar, if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can use a mix of different apple varieties. Consider using Granny Smith for tartness and Honeycrisp for sweetness. This baked French toast can also be prepared a day ahead, making it a perfect dish for brunch gatherings.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

One of the best features of this Apple Cinnamon Baked French Toast is its make-ahead capability. You can prepare it the night before and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This not only saves time during your morning routine but also allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, enhancing the flavor. If you're planning to bake it from the refrigerator, simply pop it in the oven for about 10 extra minutes to ensure it cooks thoroughly.

Should you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30 seconds or pop them in a toaster oven to restore some crispness. This way, you can enjoy the delightful flavors even on busy weekdays!

Serving Suggestions

This baked French toast is delicious on its own, but you can take it up a notch with a few simple additions. Drizzling warm maple syrup over the top provides a sweet contrast to the spiced apples. Alternatively, a dusting of powdered sugar can enhance the presentation while adding a touch of sweetness. I often serve it with a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt to balance the richness, creating a delightful brunch explosion of flavors.

For a more indulgent experience, pair this dish with a side of crispy bacon or sausage links. The salty meat complements the sweet, gooey apples beautifully, making for a well-rounded meal. You can also consider adding seasonal fruits like berries or pomegranate seeds as a fresh garnish to brighten up the plate and add a nutritious element.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free bread to adapt this recipe.

→ How can I store leftovers?

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

→ Can I freeze the baked French toast?

Yes, wrap it tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

→ What toppings pair well with this dish?

Serve with maple syrup, whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for extra sweetness.