Warm spiced apples atop thick slices of brioche french toast is exactly what you need on a cold morning. I love to treat myself to a little breakfast indulgence on the weekends and french toast is one of them. Little prep work and lots of flavor for mouthfuls of baked apples, cozy spices, and sweet bread in every bite.

I suggest you go ahead a plan some time to relax and savor a delicious breakfast. Grab some apples, a fresh loaf of bread, then brew a little to have ready to go.

Stack of french toast topped with apples on a white plate next to syrup bottle.

White table with a basket of apples, loaf of bread, jar of syrup and Christmas greenery.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Fresh Apples

Apple french toast wouldn’t be amazing without quality fresh apples! Which is why, I partnered with Starr Ranch Growers, a group of multi-generational farming families who raise premium, wholesome conventional and organic fruit. I’m so excited to showcase their sweet and delightfully tart JUICI apple. The JUICI apple is a versatile vibrant red variety with a thinner skin, great crunch, and long shelf life. All wins for an apple that can be used in a multitude of recipes.

Supporting farmers who give back to the community, use sustainable farming practices, and deliver consistent quality products is why I love Starr Ranch Growers. Their JUICI apples come lovingly packaged with each piece of fruit nestled in protective padding. You can rest assured the apples you order will come in fresh pristine condition.

The best part is the skin doesn’t need to be peeled for this recipe. Yep, it softens nicely in the skillet and has a wonderful flavor. JUICI apples absorb all the brown sugar, butter, and spices for an incredible toast topping. You almost don’t even need the maple syrup!

French Brioche

Preferring a thick pillowy bread I opted for a loaf of french brioche. Now, you can use any bread you like but I promise brioche is the best bread for french toast. Its sturdy for holding fruit toppings, plus rich in butter and eggs for an incredible crumb texture.

You can find brioche at most grocery stores or local bakeries. If you’re feeling adventurous try my recipe for Brioche Nanterre. It may take a little time to make, but so worth it!

Brown Sugar and Spices

Dark brown sugar has a lovely molasses flavor, blending nicely with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The syrup made with the apples poured over your toast is one incredible topping.

Table scene of sliced bread, bowl of apples, eggs, syrup, and bowls of sugar.

Christmas breakfast table with sliced bread, red apples, syrup, candlesticks, and greenery.

How to Make French Toast

Prepare the spiced apple topping first. Cut two apples in half and remove the stem and core. Then cut the halves into ½ inch slices. A chunky slice is great since the apples will shrink as they cook. Melt the butter and brown sugar in a large saucepan, with spices, then add your apples. Simmer the apples til softened and set aside.

Make the batter for dipping your bread. Whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla, and spices in a medium bowl. Then transfer to a large shallow dish for dipping the bread slices. You can use a pie plate or cake pan for dipping.

Batter and cook the brioche toast. Melt butter over medium low heat in a large skillet. Take one piece of bread and dip both sides into the batter. Cook the bread 1-2 minutes on each side until golden brown. Transfer to serving plate. Repeat with remaining bread.

Assemble the apple french toast. Stack 2-3 slices of cooked bread on each serving plate, top with warm apples and syrup. Add additional maple syrup if desired.

Bowl of cooked apples in a brown sugar syrup.

Tips for Success

Apples can be made one day in advance and refrigerated in an air tight container. Simply reheat in a skillet on the stove before serving.
Use thick 1 inch slices of bread. Thicker slices are sturdier and won’t get too soggy.
French toast is best enjoyed right away, sorry leftover wet bread just isn’t good.

Stack of french toast on white plate with a piece on a fork.

Above view of half eaten french toast on a white plate next to a cup of coffee.

This Recipe is Sponsored by Starr Ranch Growers and JUICI Apples. All thoughts and text are my own. Thank you for supporting the companies that help make Two Cups Flour possible.