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When it comes to breakfast dishes that offer warmth and comfort, few can rival the charm of baked French toast. This beloved classic transforms simple ingredients into a delightful morning treat, perfect for leisurely weekends or special occasions. Today, we take this comforting dish to new heights with a creative twist: Apple Pie Baked French Toast. This recipe marries the nostalgic flavors of traditional apple pie with the soft, custardy goodness of French toast, creating a unique breakfast experience that is as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Apple Pie Baked French Toast

Indulge in the cozy goodness of Apple Pie Baked French Toast, a delightful twist on a breakfast classic that brings the comforting flavors of apple pie to your morning table. Combining soft, custardy bread with caramelized apples and warm spices, this dish is perfect for brunch or special occasions. Easy to prepare and versatile, it can be customized to fit dietary needs, making it an inviting choice for family and friends. Enjoy the aroma as it bakes and create cherished memories around the breakfast table.

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast Mixture:

1 loaf of challah or brioche bread (about 14 slices)

6 large eggs

1 cup whole milk

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Apple Filling:

4 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced

1/4 cup brown sugar

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

2 tablespoons lemon juice

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

For Topping:

1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)

Maple syrup and powdered sugar for serving

Instructions
 

Prepare the Apple Filling:

    - In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter.

      - Add the sliced apples, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir to combine well.

        - Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are slightly softened. Remove from heat and set aside.

          Prepare the Bread:

            - Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

              - Slice the challah or brioche into thick slices, about 1 inch each. Arrange half of the slices in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, slightly overlapping them.

                Make the French Toast Custard:

                  - In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cream, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well blended.

                    - Pour half of this mixture over the bread in the baking dish. Allow it to soak for about 10 minutes.

                      Layer the Apple Filling:

                        - Evenly spread the cooked apple filling over the soaked bread.

                          - Top with the remaining bread slices, overlapping them slightly.

                            - Pour the remaining French toast custard mixture over the top of the bread.

                              Add Toppings:

                                - If using, sprinkle the chopped pecans or walnuts on top for added crunch.

                                  Bake:

                                    - Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.

                                      - Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.

                                        Serve:

                                          - Let the baked French toast cool for a few minutes before slicing.

                                            - Serve warm, drizzled with maple syrup and dusted with powdered sugar.

                                              Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 20 minutes | 1 hour | 6-8 servings