Go Back

Heavenly Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake

This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake merges the beloved flavors of apple pie and French toast into a delightful brunch dish. Soft bread, tender apples, and a crunchy topping make it a perfect addition to cozy brunches or celebratory gatherings.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Chill Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Course Breakfast
Cuisine American
Servings 8 Servings

Equipment

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Mixing bowls
  • Whisk
  • Skillet
  • Wooden spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

For the Bake

  • 1 loaf French bread about 1 pound / 450 g, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 4 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk 500 ml
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

For the Apple Filling

  • 3 medium apples about 1 pound / 450 g, peeled, cored, and diced
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

For the Topping

  • 1/2 cup granola about 50 g
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Filling

  • In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once melted, add the diced apples, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract. Stir to combine, cooking until the apples are tender—about 5 minutes.
  • Tip: Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding more sugar if needed.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture

  • In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and brown sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Assemble the Bake

  • In a greased 9x13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the bread cubes, then layer the cooked apple filling on top. Cover the apples with the remaining bread cubes. Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to soak.

Step 4: Prepare the Topping

  • In a separate bowl, combine granola, melted butter, and brown sugar. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the bake.

Step 5: Chill and Bake

  • Cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake, covered, for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until golden brown.

Notes

Pro tips