Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake Recipe

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If you’re craving a cozy, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug in every bite, look no further than this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake. It’s an irresistible dish where soft brioche bread meets a luscious vanilla-spiced custard soaked with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, layered with tender, buttery sautéed apples, and topped with a brown sugar crumble that bakes to golden, caramelized perfection. This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake is the ultimate crowd-pleaser for lazy weekend mornings or special holiday brunches, combining classic flavors with effortless preparation that will make you want to serve it again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are delightfully simple yet essential, each bringing their own magic to the dish—from the rich creaminess of Organic Valley eggs and milk to the sweet warmth of cinnamon and nutmeg that match perfectly with fresh apples and brioche bread.

• 1 loaf brioche bread: Soft and buttery, perfect for soaking up the custard without falling apart.
• 3 Organic Valley® Large Eggs: They bind everything together and create that luscious custard texture.
• 1 ½ cup Organic Valley® Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and helps tenderize the bread.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Infuses a mellow, sweet aroma that brightens the entire dish.
• 6 tablespoons Organic Valley® Salted Butter: Used for sautéing apples and adding richness throughout.
• 2 apples, diced: Freshly diced for juicy bites that balance the sweet custard with a hint of tartness.
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon: The signature spice that gives this bake its warm, inviting character.
• ½ cup brown sugar: Provides sweetness and caramelization both in the apples and the crumble topping.
• ½ teaspoon ground nutmeg: Adds a subtle, nutty warmth that deepens the spice profile.
• ½ teaspoon ground cloves: Gives a fragrant, slightly spicy note to balance the sweetness perfectly.

How to Make Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. While it heats, this gives you time to prepare the flavorful apple mixture and the custardy bread base—everything needs to be just right to get that perfect bake with golden, bubbling edges and a soft center.

Step 2: Prepare the Apples

Dice your apples into small, bite-sized chunks for even cooking. Melt three tablespoons of salted butter in a pan over medium heat, then add the apples, tossing gently so each piece glistens with butter. Let the apples soften slightly before stirring in the cinnamon and ¼ cup brown sugar. This mixture will become beautifully fragrant as the apples caramelize and sweeten, creating a delicious layer of flavor for the bake.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together the Organic Valley eggs and whole milk until fully combined. Add in the vanilla extract, nutmeg, and ground cloves. This custard blend is what transforms the brioche bread into that melt-in-your-mouth French toast texture everyone loves, with exciting layers of warming spices.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

Slice your brioche into thick pieces and arrange them in a baking dish, making sure to cover every inch so the custard can soak through. Slowly pour the custard mixture over the bread, allowing it to absorb and become soft but not soggy. Then evenly layer your cinnamon-spiced apple mixture over the bread, filling in all the spaces with those juicy bites for maximum flavor in every slice.

Step 5: Add the Brown Sugar Crumble and Bake

Combine the remaining butter with the rest of the brown sugar to create a crumble topping. Sprinkle this over the entire casserole for that irresistible, golden crust. Bake your Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake for around 40 minutes or until the custard has fully set and no longer bubbles around the edges. The top should be beautifully browned and crisp, while the inside stays soft and creamy.

How to Serve Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake

Garnishes

To make your Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake look and taste next-level, consider topping with a light dusting of powdered sugar, a drizzle of pure maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream. Fresh apple slices or a sprinkle of chopped pecans add a lovely crunchy contrast that complements the soft texture beautifully.

Side Dishes

This bake pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit salad, crispy bacon or sausage for savory balance, and a hot cup of coffee or spiced chai to round out the breakfast experience. The sweetness and spice of the bake are versatile enough to match both lighter and heartier breakfast sides.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve your Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake straight from the casserole dish for a rustic, inviting feel, or cut it into squares and plate individually for a brunch gathering. You might also layer it with yogurt and granola for a parfait twist or serve alongside a cinnamon ice cream scoop for an indulgent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake can be tightly covered with foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the texture moist and flavor intact, making for an easy and delicious breakfast the next morning.

Freezing

If you want to save time later, this dish freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in a freezer bag. Frozen, it will keep for up to 2 months without losing its amazing flavor or custardy texture.

Reheating

To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm portions in a 350-degree oven for 15 to 20 minutes until heated through and crisp on top. Avoid microwaving to keep that signature baked crumble crispness that makes this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake so special.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread for this bake?

Absolutely! While brioche is ideal for its rich, buttery texture, challah or even a sturdy white bread can work. Just make sure the bread is thickly sliced and not too dry to ensure it absorbs the custard well.

Do I need to peel the apples before dicing?

Peeling is optional. Leaving the skins on adds a bit of texture and color, plus extra nutrients. Just be sure to wash your apples well before dicing.

Can I prepare this the night before and bake in the morning?

Yes! You can assemble the entire bake the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. When ready, simply add the crumble topping and bake. It’s a fantastic way to save time and enjoy a fresh-baked breakfast.

Is there a dairy-free version of this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake?

Definitely. Substitute the whole milk with your favorite plant-based milk like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative. The flavors will still shine beautifully.

Can I add nuts or other fruits to the bake?

Go for it! Adding chopped walnuts or pecans gives a lovely crunch, and throw in some dried cranberries or raisins for bursts of sweetness that pair perfectly with the warm spices and apples.

Final Thoughts

This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake is such a heartwarming dish that brings comfort and joy to your breakfast table. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself, the blend of cinnamon-spiced apples and custardy brioche topped with a brown sugar crumble is pure magic. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your go-to recipe for those moments when you want something special but easy. Your mornings are about to get a whole lot cozier and delicious!

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