This Caramel Apple Pie French Toast combines the flavors of sweet apples, warm spices, and gooey caramel all on crispy bread. It’s a delicious twist on breakfast that’s hard to resist!
I can’t help but get excited when I smell this cooking! It’s like having dessert for breakfast. Just serve it with a drizzle of extra caramel on top—please, no judgment! 😄
I love how simple it is to whip this up. Just soak the bread, fry it up, and add those lovely toppings. Perfect for cozy weekend mornings or a surprising brunch treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick-cut bread like brioche or challah gives a nice texture. You can use Texas toast or even sourdough if you prefer. Just make sure it’s sturdy enough to soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
Apples: Granny Smith or Honeycrisp apples are great for their tartness and firmness. For a sweeter twist, try Fuji or Gala apples. If you want to replace fresh apples, consider using canned apple pie filling (just adjust the sugar).
Cinnamon: Ground cinnamon is key to bringing warmth to this dish. If you want, you could mix in a bit of nutmeg for extra flavor, but cinnamon is the star here.
Brown Sugar: I love using light brown sugar for this recipe, but dark brown sugar is a fine substitute if you enjoy a deeper molasses flavor. If you’re looking to cut down on sugar, coconut sugar works well too!
How Do You Achieve the Perfectly Caramelized Apples?
Caramelized apples are a treat, but they require some attention. The goal is to soften the apples while blending in the flavors of sugar and cinnamon. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Start by melting butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add diced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice. Mix well.
- Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want them to be soft but not mushy. Keep an eye on them!
- If they start sticking, you can add a splash of water to help them cook evenly.
How to Make Caramel Apple Pie French Toast?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (like brioche or challah)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
For the Caramelized Apples:
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Whipped cream (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe will take about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. In just a few simple steps, you’ll create a warm and satisfying breakfast the whole family will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sugar until everything is well combined. Set this mixture aside; it will soak into the bread to create a delicious custard-like base.
2. Cook the Apples:
In a skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced apples, brown sugar, ground cinnamon, and lemon juice. Cook them while stirring occasionally until the apples become soft and caramelized, which should take around 5-7 minutes. Once they’re done, remove them from the heat and set aside.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Now, heat a griddle or a large skillet over medium heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of butter and let it melt, coating the bottom of the skillet for cooking the French toast.
4. Soak the Bread:
Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, making sure to soak it for a few seconds on each side. This will ensure each slice is tasty and custardy!
5. Cook the French Toast:
Place the soaked bread onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until each piece is golden brown and fully cooked through. Be careful not to crowd the skillet; you can do this in batches if needed!
6. Assemble and Serve:
To serve, stack two pieces of French toast on a plate. Generously top them with the caramelized apple mixture, then add another slice of French toast on top. Drizzle with caramel sauce and finish with a dollop of whipped cream. If you like, sprinkle a little extra cinnamon on top for added flavor.
Enjoy your delicious Caramel Apple Pie French Toast!
## FAQ
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are great options for their thickness and richness, you can also use sourdough, French bread, or even whole wheat bread. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up to soaking in the egg mixture.
Can I Prepare the Apple Mixture in Advance?
Yes, you can! The caramelized apple mixture can be prepared a day ahead. Simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge. To reheat, warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking.
What if I Don’t Have Whole Milk?
No problem at all! You can substitute whole milk with any milk you have on hand, like 2% or almond milk. Just keep in mind that using skim milk will make the French toast a bit less rich and creamy, but it will still taste great!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast and apple mixture in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The French toast will last for up to 2 days, while the apple mixture can stay fresh for about 3 days. Reheat both gently in the microwave or on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy them again!
