Description

Start your morning with the warm, comforting flavors of this Apple Cinnamon French Toast Bake. Perfect for cozy weekends, holiday mornings, or meal prep, this easy recipe is loaded with sweet sautéed apples, cinnamon-spiced custard, and golden-toasted bread. With the perfect balance of soft and crispy textures, it’s an ideal make-ahead dish that feeds a crowd and satisfies every time. Whether you’re looking for quick breakfast ideas, easy brunch recipes, or crowd-pleasing breakfast bakes, this one-pan wonder delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. A must-try for your go-to breakfast ideas and easy recipe rotation.

Ingredients

6 large eggs

2 1/2 cups whole milk

1/2 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup granulated sugar

1/4 cup brown sugar

2 teaspoons ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 loaf French bread or brioche, cubed (about 10 cups)

3 medium apples, peeled and diced

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Powdered sugar, for serving

Maple syrup, for drizzling

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Instructions

1. Cut bread into 1-inch cubes. If using fresh bread, lightly toast at 300°F for 10 minutes to dry.

2. In a skillet over medium heat, melt butter and sauté diced apples for 5–7 minutes until tender. Let cool.

3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and salt until smooth.

4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Layer half the bread cubes, half the apples, and half the nuts. Pour in half the custard. Repeat layers and press gently to soak.

5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for best results.

6. Preheat oven to 350°F. Let the dish sit at room temperature for 20 minutes before baking.

7. Bake uncovered for 45–55 minutes, or until golden brown and just set in the center.

8. Let rest 10–15 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup before serving.

Notes

Use slightly stale bread or toast fresh bread to prevent sogginess.

Let the dish soak overnight for the richest flavor and best texture.

Lightly sauté the apples to bring out their natural sweetness and softness before baking.

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Breakfast / Brunch
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 slice (1/10 of bake)
Calories: 360
Sugar: 18g
Sodium: 230mg
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 6g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 9g
Cholesterol: 145mg