Description
This Apple French Toast recipe is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, featuring thick slices of challah or brioche dipped in a vanilla-cinnamon egg mixture, then cooked to golden perfection. Topped with warm, caramelized apple slices spiced with cinnamon and nutmeg, and complemented by optional crunchy nuts, powdered sugar, and maple syrup, this dish offers a cozy, flavorful morning treat perfect for family gatherings or weekend brunch.
Ingredients
Scale
French Toast Batter
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 8 slices thick bread (such as challah or brioche)
- 1 tablespoon butter (for cooking)
Apple Topping
- 2 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
To Serve
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare the egg mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until fully combined to create a smooth custard base for the French toast.
- Prepare the apple topping: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the peeled, cored, and sliced apples along with brown sugar, cinnamon, and optional nutmeg, stirring to coat the apples evenly.
- Cook the apples: Sauté the apple mixture, stirring occasionally, for 6 to 8 minutes until the apples soften and the sugar caramelizes into a thick, fragrant sauce.
- Finish the topping: Stir in the lemon juice and continue cooking for another 1 to 2 minutes. Remove from heat and optionally mix in the chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
- Cook the French toast: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, coating both sides thoroughly, then place the bread on the skillet.
- Brown the toast: Cook each slice for about 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Repeat this process with all slices, adding more butter as necessary to prevent sticking.
- Assemble the dish: Arrange the cooked French toast on plates and spoon a generous amount of the warm apple topping over each slice.
- Serve: Finish with a dusting of powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup if desired. Serve immediately while warm for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use thick slices of challah or brioche bread for best results as they soak up the custard without falling apart.
- For a nut-free version, omit the walnuts or pecans.
- The optional nutmeg adds a nice depth of flavor but can be skipped if unavailable.
- To keep cooked French toast warm while finishing the batch, place slices on a baking sheet in a low oven (about 200°F or 90°C).
- Adjust the sweetness of the apple topping by adding more or less brown sugar according to taste.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of fresh berries or whipped cream for an indulgent brunch.
