Easy Apple Pie Baked French Toast Recipe

If you’re craving a cozy, comforting breakfast that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you will absolutely adore this Apple Pie Baked French Toast. This recipe brings together the crisp sweetness of cinnamon-spiced apples with luscious plant-based cream cheese and perfectly toasted bread to deliver a breakfast that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. It’s a wonderful way to start your day, satisfying your apple pie cravings in a morning-friendly, crowd-pleasing way.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort Food: It blends the nostalgic flavors of apple pie with the classic charm of French toast for a soulful meal.
• Simple Yet Impressive: Minimal ingredients come together effortlessly to wow family or guests without stress.
• Perfect for Fall and Beyond: Warm spices and baked apples create a cozy feel anytime you need a dose of comfort.
• Plant-Based Goodness: Using plant-based cream cheese adds richness and creaminess suitable for a variety of diets.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This recipe works great for prepping the night before to save breakfast time on busy mornings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key for a delicious Apple Pie Baked French Toast. Each component plays a special role, balancing bold flavors, textures, and inviting aromas that will fill your kitchen.

• Day-old bread: Using slightly stale bread helps soak up the custard mixture without becoming soggy.
• Apples: Crisp, tart apples add a fresh contrast and natural sweetness.
• Cinnamon: The warming spice that brings that classic apple pie taste.
• Plant-based cream cheese: Adds creamy, tangy richness to make this dish indulgent.
• Maple syrup (natural): Sweetens the custard naturally and enhances the caramelized top.
• Apple cider vinegar: Adds a subtle tang and balances the flavors.
• Plant-based milk: Keeps the custard dairy-free and smooth.
• Natural vanilla extract: Adds depth and aromatic sweetness.
• Natural gelling agent: Helps give the custard a perfect, set texture without heaviness.
• Vegetarian Worcestershire sauce: Enhances the complex, savory layers without overpowering sweetness.

Variations for Apple Pie Baked French Toast

This recipe is wonderfully versatile, so feel free to get creative! Whether you have ingredient preferences or need adjustments for a dietary requirement, it’s easy to make this recipe your own.

• Use Pears Instead of Apples: For a slightly sweeter, softer fruit that complements the spices well.
• Add Nuts: Toss in chopped walnuts or pecans for added crunch and a nutty flavor twist.
• Spice It Up: Include a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to elevate the warm, aromatic profile.
• Swap Plant-Based Cream Cheese: Try a tofu-based spread or cashew cream for different texture and flavor notes.
• Drizzle with Date Syrup (natural): Instead of maple syrup, for a deeper caramel flavor.

How to Make Apple Pie Baked French Toast

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Mixture

Start by peeling, coring, and slicing your apples thinly. In a skillet, gently cook the apples with cinnamon, a little maple syrup (natural), and a splash of apple cider vinegar. Stir occasionally until the apples soften but still hold their shape.

Step 2: Make the Custard

In a mixing bowl, whisk together plant-based milk, plant-based cream cheese, natural vanilla extract, a natural gelling agent, maple syrup (natural), and a touch of vegetarian Worcestershire sauce. This custard is rich and flavorful, perfect for soaking the bread slices.

Step 3: Assemble the French Toast

Grease your baking dish lightly and layer the day-old bread slices. Spoon the cooked apple mixture evenly on top, then pour the custard over everything, making sure each piece is saturated well. Cover and let it soak for at least 30 minutes or refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

Preheat your oven and bake the assembled dish until the custard sets and the top turns a beautiful golden brown. You’ll notice a delicious aroma filling your kitchen as it bakes a sure sign it’s almost ready!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Once out of the oven, let it cool slightly before serving to allow the custard to fully set. Serve warm with an extra drizzle of maple syrup (natural) or a dusting of cinnamon if desired.

Pro Tips for Making Apple Pie Baked French Toast

• Use Thick-Cut Bread: Chunkier slices absorb the custard well without falling apart.
• Let It Soak: Don’t rush the standing time; slower soaking means more flavorful and tender toast.
• Choose Crisp Apples: Firm varieties like Granny Smith give the best texture contrast.
• Don’t Skip the Natural Gelling Agent: It ensures the custard holds together nicely when baked.
• Make It Ahead: Assemble the night before for a quick and indulgent morning treat.

How to Serve Apple Pie Baked French Toast

Garnishes

Finish with fresh apple slices, a light dusting of cinnamon powder, or a sprinkle of crushed nuts. A drizzle of maple syrup (natural) or a dollop of plant-based whipped cream adds even more indulgence.

Side Dishes

Pair your Apple Pie Baked French Toast with fresh fruit salad, a simple green smoothie, or some vegan sausage links for a well-rounded breakfast or brunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve individual portions in ramekins topped with caramelized apples or create a brunch platter, garnished with edible flowers and fresh herbs like mint for extra visual appeal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen after resting, making for an even tastier next-day breakfast.

Freezing

This dish freezes very well. Portion it into freezer-friendly containers and it will last up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheat your Apple Pie Baked French Toast in the oven at a low temperature to keep the texture intact and warm it all the way through without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread instead of day-old bread?

Fresh bread can work, but it may become too soggy as it won’t absorb the custard as well as day-old bread does, which has lost some moisture and is firmer.

Is it possible to make this recipe nut-free?

Absolutely! Simply skip any added nuts or nut-based cream cheese replacements to keep the recipe nut-free without compromising flavor or texture.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the bread with your favorite gluten-free bread, ensuring it’s sturdy enough to soak up the custard without falling apart.

What can I use instead of plant-based cream cheese?

You can swap it with a smooth cashew cream or a tofu-based spread that offers a similar creamy texture and mild tang.

Can I prepare this the night before and bake it in the morning?

Definitely! Soaking the bread and apples overnight allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and then you can just pop it in the oven fresh in the morning.

Final Thoughts

If you are looking for a breakfast that feels special yet simple, this Apple Pie Baked French Toast is a delicious adventure of flavors and textures that will brighten your mornings. With its irresistible combination of cinnamon-spiced apples and creamy, plant-based richness, this recipe becomes a fast favorite. Give it a try and watch it take your breakfast game to a whole new level of cozy comfort.

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