Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast Recipe

Cook Time: 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 loaf challah or brioche
• 6 large eggs, at room temperature
• 1 cup Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk
• 1/4 cup maple syrup or honey, plus more for drizzling
• 2 teaspoons cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 2 medium apples, thinly sliced
• 1/2 cup Blue Diamond Almonds, roughly chopped
• Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 350F (175C). Line a standard-sized loaf pan with parchment paper and set aside.
2. Slice the bread into 1-inch thick pieces. Set aside.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, maple syrup or honey, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and salt.
4. Add the Almond Breeze Unsweetened Vanilla Almondmilk to the egg mixture and stir until combined.
5. Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are evenly coated. Set the soaked bread slices aside.
6. Slice the apples horizontally into thin rings. Use a corer or a metal frosting tip to remove the cores from the apple rings.
7. In the prepared loaf pan, layer the soaked bread slices and apple rings, alternating between one slice of bread and three slices of apple.
8. If there is any leftover egg mixture, pour it over the entire loaf to ensure even soaking.
9. Sprinkle the chopped Blue Diamond Almonds over the top, then cover the pan loosely with foil.
10. Bake for 45-50 minutes, removing the foil after 30 minutes of baking. The bread should be golden and the apples tender.
11. Allow the dish to cool for 10 minutes before dusting with powdered sugar, if desired.
12. Slice using a bread knife and drizzle with extra maple syrup before serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount per Serving
Calories	304
Total Fat	14g
Saturated Fat	2g
Cholesterol	115mg
Sodium	329mg
Total Carbohydrate	34g
Dietary Fiber	4g
Total Sugars	10g
Protein	11g
Vitamin C	1mg
Calcium	115mg
Iron	2mg
Potassium	260mg

Note: Percent daily values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may vary based on your personal calorie needs.

This delicious Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast brings a fresh twist to the traditional French toast recipe. Infused with the sweet flavors of cinnamon, apples, and a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, it creates a perfect breakfast dish that is both indulgent and satisfying.

Origin Story

French toast, known as "pain perdu" in France, has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages. The original dish was created as a way to use up stale bread, and its name translates to "lost bread," referring to how old bread would be "revived" when soaked in an egg mixture. Over time, various cultures have added their own spins, and in the United States, it evolved into the sweet and indulgent dish we know today. The addition of apples and cinnamon to French toast is a relatively recent variation that draws inspiration from seasonal fruits and popular flavor combinations, making it an excellent choice for breakfast or brunch.

Regional Variations

While French toast is popular worldwide, the Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast is particularly beloved in North America, especially during the fall months when apples are in season. In the United States and Canada, its often enjoyed as a hearty weekend breakfast or brunch dish, and is a common feature in both home kitchens and cafes. In contrast, in Europe, French toast is typically served as a more savory dish, with ingredients like cheese or ham rather than fruits and syrups. The use of apples in this recipe is influenced by autumn harvest traditions, making it a seasonal favorite in colder climates.

How It Differs from Similar Dishes

This baked French toast stands out from traditional French toast in a few key ways. Traditional French toast is typically fried on a griddle and served immediately, while this baked version is assembled in a pan and baked in the oven, allowing for a more even cooking process. The Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast also incorporates sliced apples within the layers of bread, adding a burst of flavor and texture that sets it apart from regular French toast. Additionally, the use of almond milk and optional maple syrup or honey gives it a lighter, subtly sweet flavor, compared to the more decadent, syrup-drenched versions of traditional French toast.

Where It Is Typically Served

This dish is often served at breakfast or brunch gatherings, particularly during holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas, when apples are plentiful and people are looking for a comforting yet festive meal. Its also a favorite in bed and breakfasts or local cafes, where guests are treated to homemade, heartwarming dishes. Whether served with a sprinkle of powdered sugar or drizzled with extra syrup, Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast makes for a beautiful and delicious presentation at any table.

Interesting Facts

• The addition of apples not only enhances the flavor but also adds a nutritional boost, providing fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
• The choice of bread is important: challah or brioche, two rich and fluffy breads, are preferred for their ability to absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
• In many parts of the U.S., baked French toast casseroles like this one have become a popular dish for holiday brunches because they can be prepared the night before and baked in the morning, making them a time-saving option for busy hosts.
• The classic combination of cinnamon and apples is widely regarded as a comforting flavor duo, often evoking feelings of warmth and nostalgia, especially in the fall season.

FAQ about Cinnamon Apple Baked French Toast Recipe