Description
This Caramel Apple Upside Down French Toast Bake is a delicious twist on classic French toast. Soft, custardy bread soaks up a rich caramel sauce and bakes over a layer of tender, cinnamon-spiced apples. Itโs easy to make ahead, perfect for holidays, and absolutely irresistible!
Ingredients
Units
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For the Caramel Apple Layer:
- 3 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
For the French Toast:
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 5 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
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Preheat & Prep: Preheat your oven to 350ยฐF (175ยฐC). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Make the Caramel Apple Layer:
- In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Cook for 1-2 minutes until smooth and bubbling.
- Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
- Pour the caramel mixture into the greased baking dish. Arrange apple slices evenly on top.
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Prepare the French Toast Mixture:
- In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until well combined.
- Add the cubed bread and gently toss to coat. Let sit for 5 minutes to absorb the mixture.
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Assemble & Bake:
- Evenly spread the soaked bread cubes over the apple layer in the baking dish.
- Bake uncovered for 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
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Flip & Serve:
- Let the bake rest for 5 minutes. Place a large serving platter or baking sheet over the dish, then carefully flip to release the caramel apple layer on top.
- Serve warm with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or maple syrup.
Notes
- Make-Ahead Option: Assemble everything the night before and refrigerate overnight. Bake in the morning as directed.
- Apple Choices: Use a mix of tart (Granny Smith) and sweet (Honeycrisp) apples for the best flavor.
- Bread Tip: Stale bread works best since it absorbs the custard without getting too soggy.