Name: Baked Cinnamon Apple Butter French Toast
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf (about 1 pound) challah or brioche bread, cubed; 6 large eggs; 2 cups whole milk; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/4 cup maple syrup; 1/4 cup apple butter; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 2 apples, thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons butter; Powdered sugar, for serving (optional); Maple syrup, for serving

Why You’ll Love Baked Cinnamon Apple Butter French Toast Recipe

This recipe elevates classic French toast into a one-dish bake perfect for brunch. The apple butter adds depth, the cinnamon and brown sugar bring warm spice, and the maple whipped cream adds a luxurious finishing touch. With minimal active hands-on time and big flavor payoff, it’s ideal for special mornings or holiday breakfasts.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 loaf challah (or brioche), sliced into 1½-inch thick slices
1 cup apple butter
6 large eggs
2 cups whole milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
6 tablespoons salted butter, melted and browned
2 honeycrisp apples, thinly sliced
½ cup brown sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon

Maple Whipped Cream
½ cup maple syrup
2 cinnamon sticks
2 tablespoons bourbon (or 1 tablespoon vanilla)
1 cup heavy whipping cream
Sea salt

Directions

Pre-butter a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Slice each piece of bread in half (leaving about ¼-inch intact at the bottom). Spread apple butter inside each slice and arrange in the baking dish.
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cooled browned butter, and a pinch of salt.
Submerge each stuffed slice of bread in the egg mixture for about one minute, then return them to the dish, arranging them side by side.
Toss the sliced apples with brown sugar and cinnamon. Tuck the apple slices between each piece of bread. Pour the remaining egg mixture over the entire dish.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 10 minutes or overnight to allow the bread to fully absorb the custard.
When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the dish with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 20–25 minutes until golden and set.
While baking, simmer the maple syrup and cinnamon sticks in a small pot for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in bourbon or vanilla.
Whip the heavy cream with 1–2 tablespoons of the infused maple syrup and a pinch of sea salt until soft peaks form.
Serve the French toast warm with maple whipped cream and remaining syrup.

Servings and timing

Serves: 8 people
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Variations

Use pumpkin or cinnamon-flavored brioche for extra fall flavor
Substitute the apple butter with another fruit spread or omit it entirely
For a vegan version, use plant-based milk and cream, dairy-free butter, and omit or replace bourbon
Add chopped pecans or walnuts between the bread slices for added crunch

Storage/Reheating

Cover and refrigerate leftovers for up to 2 days. Reheat individual portions in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10–15 minutes until warmed through. Whipped cream should be freshly prepared before serving again, as it may soften in storage.

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, this recipe is perfect for prepping the night before. Assemble the dish and refrigerate overnight to soak, then bake in the morning.

Can I use another type of bread besides challah or brioche?

Yes, any thick-sliced, sturdy bread such as Texas toast or firm sourdough will work, though challah and brioche give the best soft texture.

What if I don’t have apple butter?

You can substitute with another fruit butter or omit it entirely if preferred. The dish will still be flavorful but slightly less rich.

Can I skip the apples?

Yes, you can leave out the apples for a simpler version. You’ll lose some of the caramelized texture, but it will still taste delicious.

How do I make the maple whipped cream in advance?

You can prepare the maple syrup infusion in advance and refrigerate it. Whip the cream fresh before serving for best texture.

Is this suitable for a holiday breakfast?

Absolutely. This dish is ideal for Thanksgiving, Christmas morning, or any festive brunch gathering.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just use a larger baking dish or divide the mixture between two dishes. Adjust baking time slightly as needed.

Can I freeze leftovers?

French toast can be frozen, but the texture may change. Freeze cooled portions individually, then reheat in the oven. Make the whipped cream fresh.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, substitute with gluten-free bread and check labels for gluten-free versions of apple butter and other ingredients.

What goes well with this dish?

Serve with fresh fruit, yogurt, coffee, tea, or a light salad to round out the meal.

Conclusion

This baked cinnamon apple butter French toast delivers rich, seasonal flavor with minimal effort. Whether you’re hosting brunch or just want to enjoy a cozy breakfast at home, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser—fluffy, spiced, and indulgently sweet with every bite.