Best Apple Pie Baked French Toast Recipe

Experience the cozy flavors of Apple Pie Baked French Toast with cinnamon, apple chunks, and plant-based (natural) sweetness for a perfect breakfast treat that feels like a warm hug on a plate. This delightful recipe brings together the comforting elements of classic apple pie and transforms them into a luscious baked French toast that’s ideal for brunches, weekends, or any time you crave something sweet and satisfying. With spices, tender bread, and a touch of natural sweetness, this Apple Pie Baked French Toast recipe elevates your morning with irresistible aroma and flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort Food Perfection: Combines beloved apple pie spices with soft, custardy baked French toast for a cozy breakfast experience.
• Easy To Make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe perfect even for beginners in the kitchen.
• Customizable Flavors: You can adjust the sweetness and spices to fit your personal taste or dietary preferences easily.
• Perfect for Feeding a Crowd: This baked version is great for sharing with family and guests without spending hours cooking.
• Plant-Based Sweetness: Uses natural sweeteners and plant-based (natural) ingredients to keep things wholesome and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Apple Pie Baked French Toast recipe plays an essential role, from adding that crisp cinnamon warmth to soft chunks of apples for texture, while plant-based (natural) milk and sweeteners create a luscious custard that soaks beautifully into the bread.

• Thick-cut bread: Choose a sturdy bread like brioche or challah that soaks up custard without falling apart.
• Fresh apples: Crisp apple chunks bring juicy bites and natural tartness to balance sweetness.
• Cinnamon and nutmeg (natural): Classic warm spices create that signature apple pie flavor.
• Plant-based (natural) milk: Dairy-free milk keeps the custard creamy and perfect for soaking the bread.
• Maple syrup (natural): Adds gentle sweetness and caramel notes throughout the dish.
• Eggs: They help bind and create that rich custard texture for baking.
• Vanilla extract (natural): Enhances all the flavors with a smooth, fragrant touch.
• Natural gelling agent: Provides just the right firmness to hold the slices together after baking.

Variations for Apple Pie Baked French Toast

This Apple Pie Baked French Toast recipe is incredibly flexible, letting you swap, add, or remove ingredients to fit your mood or pantry. Whether you want it sweeter, spicier, or packed with extra fruit, it’s simple to customize.

• Nutty Twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for crunch and a toasty flavor layer.
• Berry Boost: Mix in fresh or frozen blueberries or raspberries for added color and tanginess.
• Smoked Turkey Bacon Upgrade: Serve with crispy smoked turkey bacon on the side for a savory-sweet balance.
• Caramel Drizzle: Top with a homemade caramel sauce (natural) for an indulgent touch.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for special diets without losing taste or texture.

How to Make Apple Pie Baked French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Mixture

Start by peeling, coring, and chopping fresh apples into bite-sized chunks. In a skillet over medium heat, gently sauté the apple pieces with a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg (natural), and a splash of water or grape juice until tender but still slightly firm. This process softens the apples and infuses them with warm spice flavor.

Step 2: Mix the Custard

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, plant-based (natural) milk, maple syrup (natural), vanilla extract (natural), and a pinch of natural gelling agent until well combined and smooth. This custard mix will soak into the bread, creating that creamy baked French toast texture.

Step 3: Assemble the Dish

Slice the bread thickly and layer it in a greased baking dish, alternating with the cooked apple chunks. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and apples, pressing down gently to ensure every slice fully absorbs the custard.

Step 4: Let it Soak

Cover the baking dish with foil and refrigerate for at least one hour, or overnight if possible. This soaking time maximizes flavor and ensures that the custard soaks deep into the bread for ultimate deliciousness.

Step 5: Bake until Golden

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the foil and bake the dish uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes until the top becomes golden brown and the custard sets. If desired, broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to get a perfectly caramelized crust on top.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Baked French Toast

• Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread soaks custard better without getting too soggy.
• Don’t Skip the Soaking: This step guarantees every bite is moist and bursting with flavor.
• Choose Crisp Apples: Balanced sweetness and firm texture prevent mushiness in the final dish.
• Adjust Spices to Taste: Start with small amounts of cinnamon and nutmeg and increase if you like a spicier flavor.
• Watch the Baking Time: Overbaking dries the dish out, so check for a set custard that jiggles slightly in the center.

How to Serve Apple Pie Baked French Toast

Garnishes

Sprinkle with a dusting of powdered sugar (natural) or a handful of toasted toasted almonds for a pretty and tasty finishing touch. A drizzle of warm maple syrup (natural) or a dollop of plant-based (natural) whipped cream adds richness and sweetness.

Side Dishes

Complement your Apple Pie Baked French Toast with smoked turkey bacon or smoked turkey slices for a savory contrast. Fresh fruit salad or a simple green salad with a light apple cider vinegar dressing can balance the richness of the dish beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in individual ramekins for personalized portions or in a large casserole dish family-style. Top each slice with a cinnamon apple compote or a spoonful of plant-based (natural) yogurt infused with vanilla extract (natural) for extra flair and flavor combinations.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making each bite just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

Wrap individual portions tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil before freezing. Frozen Apple Pie Baked French Toast stays fresh for up to one month and is perfect for quick breakfasts later.

Reheating

Reheat in a preheated oven at 325°F (160°C) for about 15 minutes or until warmed through. Avoid the microwave to retain the baked textures and avoid sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of apple?

Absolutely! Granny Smith apples provide tartness, while Fuji or Gala offer sweeter notes; just adjust your maple syrup (natural) amount accordingly.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, using plant-based (natural) milk and plant-based (natural) butter substitutes will keep it completely dairy-free without compromising flavor.

Can I prepare the dish the night before?

Definitely, soaking the bread and apples overnight in the custard mixture enhances the flavor and texture, making mornings easier.

What is the purpose of the natural gelling agent?

The natural gelling agent helps bind the custard and fruit together for a firm yet tender bake that slices beautifully.

Can I add more fruit to this recipe?

Yes, mixing in berries or sliced bananas works well and can add fresh bursts of flavor to the classic apple combination.

Final Thoughts

This Apple Pie Baked French Toast is a fabulous way to bring that warm, homemade feeling to your breakfast table anytime. With its perfect balance of spices, apples, and that rich, custardy texture, it’s sure to become one of your go-to recipes for a comforting, impressive brunch that everyone will adore. Give it a try, and share the joy of this cozy dish with friends and family!

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