Description
Apple Pie Baked French Toast brings together the warm, sweet flavors of apple pie with the soft, custardy texture of baked French toast. Made with tender apple chunks and inviting spices, all soaked in a creamy, plant-based custard and finished with a sweet plant-based drizzle, this comforting breakfast is easy to prepare and perfect for sharing any morning.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Apples
- 6 slices sturdy bread such as brioche or challah
- 3 cups fresh apples, chopped into bite-sized chunks
Spices and Flavorings
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 teaspoon natural vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural)
Custard Base
- 2 1/2 cups plant-based milk (e.g., oat, almond, or soy)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup (natural) or pure cane sugar
- 1 teaspoon natural gelling agent (such as pectin or agar)
For Baking and Finishing
- 2 tablespoons plant-based butter, for greasing
- Sweet plant-based syrup or glaze for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Apple Mixture: Chop fresh apples into bite-sized chunks. In a skillet over medium heat, gently cook the apples with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a splash of apple cider vinegar until the apples soften and the spices release their aroma, creating a warm and fragrant filling.
- Mix the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the plant-based milk, natural sweetener, natural vanilla extract, and the natural gelling agent until smooth. This custard will soak into the bread, infusing it with flavor and producing a soft, creamy texture.
- Assemble the French Toast: Grease a baking dish with plant-based butter. Layer the slices of bread evenly across the bottom. Spoon the spiced apple mixture evenly over the bread. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the top, making sure everything is well soaked.
- Let It Rest: Allow the assembled dish to rest for at least 15 minutes so the bread absorbs the custard and apple juices, resulting in a tender and flavorful bake.
- Bake to Perfection: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the dish uncovered for 40 to 45 minutes, until the custard is set and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Add the Finishing Touch: Remove from the oven and drizzle with your choice of sweet plant-based syrup or glaze to complete the dish with a touch of indulgence.
Notes
- Use day-old bread to ensure it absorbs the custard well without falling apart.
- Chop apples evenly for uniform cooking and consistent flavor.
- Do not skip the resting time for the best custardy texture.
- For extra moisture, cover the dish with foil for the first half of baking, then uncover to achieve a crisp top.
- Try toppings like chopped nuts, fresh fruit, or cinnamon sugar to add texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 18g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: apple pie, baked French toast, plant-based, breakfast, cozy, apple, cinnamon, vegan dessert