There’s something truly magical about waking up to the heavenly aroma of a Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake wafting through the house. This delightful dish is not just a breakfast option; it’s an experience that brings comfort and joy to the table. When I first introduced this recipe to my family, it quickly became a favorite. The combination of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples and the rich, custardy bread was met with enthusiastic smiles and requests for seconds. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its taste but also in its simplicity, making it a perfect choice for both special occasions and lazy Sunday mornings alike.
Ingredients
The success of any recipe often hinges on the quality of its ingredients, and this Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake is no exception. To create this masterpiece, you will need:
- 1 loaf of stale French bread (about 12-16 ounces), cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups of whole milk
- 1/2 cup of heavy cream
- 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon of nutmeg
- 3 large apples, peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup of unsalted butter, melted
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
Creating this delightful French Toast Bake is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Follow these steps to bring this delicious dish to life:
- Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
- Scatter the cubed bread evenly in the prepared baking dish. Pour the egg mixture over the bread, ensuring every piece is coated. Use a spoon or spatula to gently press the bread down to soak up the egg mixture.
- Arrange the sliced apples on top of the bread. Drizzle the melted butter over the apples, ensuring even coverage.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Allow the French Toast Bake to cool for a few minutes before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
This Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake serves approximately 8 people, with each serving providing around 320 calories. The dish offers a balanced mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, making it a satisfying breakfast choice. The apples add a punch of fiber and vitamins, while the custardy bread provides a hearty start to the day. It’s important to note that the calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used, especially if substitutions are made.
Preparation Time
One of the appealing aspects of this recipe is its relatively quick preparation time. From start to finish, you can expect to spend about 20 minutes on preparation, with an additional 55-60 minutes dedicated to baking. This makes it an excellent choice for both planned gatherings and spontaneous brunches. The preparation can even be done the night before, allowing for an effortless morning assembly and baking process. Simply prepare the dish, cover it, and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When you’re ready to bake, let it come to room temperature while you preheat the oven.
How to Serve
Serving the Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake is a delight, as it pairs well with a variety of accompaniments. Consider these options to enhance your dining experience:
- Whipped Cream: A dollop of freshly whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence and complements the flavors beautifully.
- Maple Syrup: Drizzle some pure maple syrup over your serving for a classic and sweet addition.
- Fresh Berries: A handful of fresh berries, such as blueberries or raspberries, adds a burst of color and freshness.
- Yogurt: Serve with a side of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast and additional protein.
- Nuts: Sprinkle some toasted pecans or walnuts on top for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
Additional Tips
To ensure your Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake turns out perfectly every time, consider these additional tips:
- Use Stale Bread: Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture more effectively, resulting in a better texture. If your bread is fresh, you can cube it and let it sit out for a few hours to dry out.
- Experiment with Apples: Feel free to experiment with different apple varieties. Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast, while Honeycrisp apples provide extra sweetness.
- Make It Overnight: For an effortless morning, prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of sugar in the custard mixture. You can always add sweetness later with syrup or toppings.
- Check for Doneness: To ensure the custard is fully set, insert a knife into the center of the bake. It should come out mostly clean, with a few moist crumbs.
FAQ Section
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Cinnamon Apple French Toast Bake recipe:
Q: Can I use a different type of bread?
A: Absolutely! While French bread is recommended for its texture, brioche or challah are excellent substitutes that provide a rich and buttery flavor.
Q: Can I make this dish vegan?
A: Yes, you can substitute the eggs with a vegan egg replacer and use almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk. Ensure the bread is vegan-friendly as well.
Q: How can I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze this French Toast Bake?
A: Yes, you can freeze the baked dish. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. It can be frozen for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What if I don’t have nutmeg?
A: If you don’t have nutmeg, you can omit it or substitute it with allspice or additional cinnamon for a similar flavor profile.
