Masters of kitchen
Let’s be honest—some breakfasts just feel like a hug. Apple Pie French Toast is one of them. It’s where your favorite cozy dessert meets a golden, fluffy morning staple—and the result is pure comfort on a plate.
The scent alone will draw everyone to the kitchen. Think buttery apples, cinnamon sugar, and caramelized edges all warming up on a skillet. Whether you’re hosting a fall brunch, celebrating the holidays, or simply want something indulgent on a slow weekend morning, this dish delivers.
What makes it extra special? It’s a treat that feels fancy but is secretly simple. You don’t need to be a pastry chef—just a handful of pantry staples and a craving for something delicious. So if you’re ready to turn your kitchen into a cozy café, this one’s for you.
What Is Apple Pie French Toast?
Apple Pie French Toast is exactly what it sounds like—a warm, gooey mash-up of French toast and spiced apple pie. It’s got the soft custard-soaked bread of traditional French toast, layered with sweet cinnamon apples, and finished with a golden crisp exterior. Some versions even add a crumb topping or drizzle of caramel for that extra dessert-like flair.
There are several creative ways to make it:
-
As a classic stovetop version, where each slice is cooked to golden perfection
-
A stuffed French toast, loaded with cream cheese or spiced apples inside
-
Or a baked casserole style, perfect for feeding a crowd or making ahead
No matter how you serve it, the result is always comforting and crowd-pleasing. It’s sweet, slightly spiced, and rich in flavor—the kind of breakfast that makes you want to slow down and savor every bite.
Key Ingredients for the Best Apple Pie French Toast
Creating the best Apple Pie French Toast starts with a few simple but powerful ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need and why each one counts:
Bread
Choose a thick, sturdy bread like:
-
Brioche – rich and buttery
-
Challah – soft with a slightly sweet flavor
-
Texas toast – thick-cut and ideal for soaking up custard
Bold Tip: Use day-old bread—it soaks up the egg mixture better without falling apart.
Egg Mixture (Custard)
This is what transforms your bread into creamy, flavorful French toast:
-
Eggs – the base of your custard
-
Milk or cream – adds richness
-
Vanilla extract – for depth
-
Cinnamon & nutmeg – classic apple pie spices
Apple Pie Filling
Here’s where the magic happens. You can go fresh or convenient:
-
Fresh apples (like Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji): peeled, sliced, and sautéed
-
Canned apple pie filling: a great shortcut, but check the sugar level
-
Brown sugar, butter, cinnamon: for that caramelized, cozy flavor
Optional Extras
-
Brown sugar crumble topping (flour, butter, sugar, oats)
-
Whipped cream or cream cheese filling
-
Warm maple syrup or caramel drizzle
Each ingredient plays a role in creating that nostalgic, apple-pie-meets-breakfast experience.
How to Make Apple Pie French Toast – Step-by-Step Guide
Making Apple Pie French Toast is easier than you think. Whether you’re whipping it up on the stovetop or baking a casserole, here’s how to make it unforgettable:
Step 1: Prep the Apple Pie Filling
-
Peel and slice 3–4 apples.
-
In a skillet, melt butter and add apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a pinch of nutmeg.
-
Cook until apples are tender and caramelized (about 8–10 minutes).
Pro Tip: Sauté your apples until they’re soft but not mushy—they’ll continue to soften during cooking.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together:
-
4 large eggs
-
1 cup whole milk or cream
-
1 tsp vanilla extract
-
1 tsp cinnamon + ¼ tsp nutmeg
Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Step 3: Soak and Cook the Bread
-
Dip thick slices of brioche or challah into the custard mixture. Let them soak for 15–30 seconds per side.
-
Preheat a buttered skillet or griddle over medium heat.
-
Cook soaked bread until golden brown on both sides (about 3–4 minutes per side).
Step 4: Assemble
You’ve got a few choices:
-
Top each slice with warm apple pie filling and a drizzle of syrup
-
Or layer apples between two slices for a sandwich-style version
-
Add whipped cream, powdered sugar, or caramel if you’re feeling fancy
It’s flexible, fast, and deeply satisfying—breakfast that tastes like dessert but is totally acceptable in the morning.
Why Apple Pie French Toast Works: Flavor & Texture Breakdown
Apple Pie French Toast works because it taps into everything we love—comfort, nostalgia, and rich flavor. It’s the kind of breakfast that feels like a treat, without being complicated or fussy.
The bread’s custardy center plays beautifully against its golden, crispy edges. Then you add soft, buttery apples spiced with cinnamon and brown sugar, and suddenly it’s like biting into a warm slice of pie.
Even better? It’s endlessly customizable. Want it sweeter? Add caramel. Prefer something lighter? Skip the syrup and go for Greek yogurt on top. You can serve it to guests at brunch or just spoil yourself on a quiet Sunday morning.
This dish isn’t just tasty—it creates a moment. One of those meals that fills your kitchen with the scent of fall, brings smiles to the table, and makes you glad you stayed in.
Apple Pie French Toast Variations You’ll Love
One of the best things about Apple Pie French Toast? It’s super flexible. Here are some delicious ways to make it your own:
Stuffed Apple Pie French Toast
Take it up a notch by spreading a layer of sweetened cream cheese, mascarpone, or even caramel sauce between two slices of custard-soaked bread. Cook it like a sandwich until golden on both sides, and the center turns rich and melty.
Apple Pie French Toast Casserole
Need to feed a crowd? A baked casserole version is perfect. Just layer the bread and apple pie filling in a baking dish, pour the custard over, and refrigerate overnight or bake right away. It’s brunch magic.
Overnight Version
Want zero morning effort? Assemble everything the night before, let the bread soak in the custard overnight, and just pop it in the oven in the morning. Bonus: your house will smell amazing when you wake up.
Gluten-Free or Dairy-Free Swaps
Use gluten-free sandwich bread and plant-based milk like almond or oat milk. Coconut cream or cashew cream can sub for heavy cream. Choose a vegan egg replacer if needed.
Toppings Galore
-
Caramel drizzle or maple syrup
-
Pecan or walnut crumble for crunch
-
Fresh whipped cream or vanilla yogurt
There’s really no wrong way to serve it!
What to Serve with Apple Pie French Toast
Since this dish leans sweet, pairing it with something savory or light helps create a well-rounded breakfast or brunch spread.
Savory Sides
-
Crispy bacon adds salty balance
-
Breakfast sausage links or patties offer a satisfying contrast
-
Soft scrambled eggs keep things classic
Lighter Options
-
Fruit salad brings a refreshing bite
-
Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey adds tang and creaminess
-
Sliced oranges or berries help cut through the richness
Cozy Beverages
-
Warm apple cider for fall brunch vibes
-
Chai latte or spiced tea to complement the cinnamon notes
-
Coffee with a dash of cinnamon or pumpkin spice creamer for an extra cozy sip
Mix and match based on the occasion—whether it’s a lazy Sunday or a festive holiday brunch.
How to Make Apple Pie French Toast Ahead + Storage Tips
Planning ahead? Apple Pie French Toast is surprisingly make-ahead friendly.
Prep Ahead Tips
-
Custard can be mixed and stored in the fridge up to 24 hours ahead.
-
Apple filling can be made 2–3 days in advance—just refrigerate and reheat slightly before using.
-
If making a baked version, assemble the night before and refrigerate overnight.
Storage
-
Leftovers will keep in an airtight container in the fridge for 2–3 days.
-
To freeze, layer slices between parchment paper and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating
-
Best method: Warm in a skillet with a little butter for crispy edges.
-
Oven method: Reheat at 350°F for 10–15 minutes until warmed through.
Bold Tip: Avoid the microwave if possible—it tends to make the bread soggy and the apples rubbery.
Whether prepping for a party or just making your mornings easier, this dish holds up beautifully!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions readers ask when making Apple Pie French Toast:
Can I use canned apple pie filling?
Absolutely! It’s a convenient shortcut. Just be sure to taste it—some are sweeter than others. You can always add a splash of lemon juice or extra cinnamon to tweak the flavor.
What’s the best bread for Apple Pie French Toast?
Go for thick-cut breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast. These absorb the custard without falling apart and offer the perfect soft-crisp texture.
Can I make this in a casserole dish?
Yes! This dish works beautifully as a French toast bake. Just layer the bread and apples in a buttered dish, pour the custard over, and bake until golden and set.
Is this freezer-friendly?
Totally. Cooked slices can be frozen and reheated in a skillet or oven. The casserole version can also be frozen before or after baking.
How do I make it less sweet?
Skip the syrup and go light on the sugar in the apple filling. You can also use tart apples like Granny Smith to balance the flavors.
Can I make it vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based milk, a flax egg or vegan egg replacer, and dairy-free butter. Choose a sturdy vegan bread for best results.
How long should I soak the bread?
About 20–30 seconds per side. You want the bread to absorb the custard but not fall apart.
Final Thoughts + Reader Tip Invitation
If you’re craving a breakfast that tastes like a warm hug, Apple Pie French Toast is it. It brings the cozy flavors of fall to your morning table—but truthfully, it’s delicious all year long.
Try it stuffed, baked, or on the griddle. Make it gluten-free, top it with pecan crumble, or add a drizzle of caramel. However you make it, it’s bound to become a new favorite.
Tried it already? Leave a comment and let us know your twist—maybe a favorite topping or a trick that worked for you. We’d love to hear how you made it your own!
Apple Pie French Toast
Equipment
- Skillet or griddle
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Spatula
- Small saucepan (for apple filling)
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- 6 –8 slices brioche challah, or Texas toast (preferably day-old)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for cooking
For the Apple Pie Filling:
- 3 medium apples Granny Smith, Honeycrisp, or Fuji, peeled and sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp lemon juice optional, for balance
Optional Toppings:
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Caramel sauce
- Powdered sugar
- Toasted pecans
Instructions
Make the Apple Filling:
- In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Stir and cook until the apples are soft but not mushy (about 8–10 minutes). Set aside.
Prepare the Custard:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk eggs, milk/cream, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
Soak the Bread:
- Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for 20–30 seconds per side.
Cook the French Toast:
- Heat a buttered skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook soaked bread for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and crisp.
Assemble and Serve:
- Plate French toast slices and top generously with warm apple pie filling. Add syrup, whipped cream, or caramel drizzle if desired.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for the best texture—it holds its shape and soaks up more custard.
- For a richer taste, use half-and-half or heavy cream in the custard.
- Make it a stuffed version by adding sweetened cream cheese between two slices before cooking.
- To make ahead, cook the apples and prep the custard the night before.
Nutrition
