Apple Pie French Toast is a mouth-watering brunch delight that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the indulgence of French toast. This dish is perfect for lazy Sunday mornings or special occasions and is sure to impress your family and friends. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of making this delectable treat.
Gathering the Ingredients
Before you start making Apple Pie French Toast, it is essential to gather all the necessary ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the French Toast:
– 6 slices of thick bread (preferably brioche or challah)
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup of milk
– 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– A pinch of salt
For the Apple Pie Filling:
– 2 large apples (preferably Granny Smith)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons of brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
– A pinch of nutmeg
– A pinch of salt
For the Topping:
– Whipped cream
– Maple syrup
– Powdered sugar (optional)
– Extra cinnamon for sprinkling (optional)
Preparing the Apple Pie Filling
To start, peel and core the apples, then cut them into small cubes. In a medium-sized pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the apple cubes, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt. Cook the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the apples are soft and caramelized. Remove the pan from the heat and set aside.
Preparing the French Toast Batter
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. Make sure to mix it well until all the ingredients are combined.
Assembling the Apple Pie French Toast
Take a slice of bread and press it gently into the prepared French toast batter, ensuring that both sides are evenly coated. Repeat this step with the remaining slices of bread.
Once all the slices are coated, heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a knob of butter to the pan and allow it to melt. Place the soaked bread slices in the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
While the French toast is still warm, evenly spoon the apple pie filling onto each slice. You can be as generous as you like with the filling, as it is the star of this dish!
Serving Apple Pie French Toast
Once the Apple Pie French Toast is ready, it’s time to serve and enjoy! Serve it warm and top each slice with a dollop of whipped cream. Drizzle some maple syrup over the toast to add a touch of sweetness. For an extra touch, you can sprinkle some powdered sugar and cinnamon on top.
This dish tastes delightful on its own, but you can also pair it with a side of crispy bacon or fresh fruit for a well-rounded brunch experience. The combination of flavors and textures will leave your taste buds wanting more!
Tips and Variations
– For an extra crunch, you can add a handful of chopped walnuts or pecans to the apple pie filling.
– If you prefer a sweeter version of the French toast, you can add a bit more sugar or honey to the batter.
– Experiment with different types of bread like cinnamon raisin or even croissants for a unique twist.
– To make the process easier, you can prepare the apple pie filling and French toast batter the night before and assemble it in the morning.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheated in the oven or microwave.
Conclusion
Apple Pie French Toast is the perfect brunch dish that combines the classic flavors of apple pie with the indulgence of French toast. With its warm and aromatic apple pie filling, crispy French toast exterior, and delightful toppings, it’s bound to become a favorite among your friends and family. So, give this recipe a try and get ready to indulge in a truly mouth-watering treat!