Baked Apple Cider French Toast is my favorite way to bring cozy fall flavors into a warm, make-ahead breakfast or brunch. This dish takes the classic baked French toast and elevates it with the sweet, spiced notes of apple cider, tender baked apples, and a buttery brown sugar topping. Whether I’m making it for a holiday morning or just a weekend treat, it’s a recipe that fills the house with comforting aromas and always gets rave reviews.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s incredibly easy to prep and can be made the night before. The apple cider adds a beautiful depth of flavor to the custard, and the soft baked apples bring just the right amount of sweetness and texture. The brown sugar topping crisps up beautifully in the oven, giving each bite a delicious contrast of soft and crunchy. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or treating myself to a slow morning.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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Day-old French bread or brioche, cubed
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Eggs
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Apple cider (not apple juice)
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Whole milk or half-and-half
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Brown sugar
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Granulated sugar
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Vanilla extract
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Ground cinnamon
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Ground nutmeg
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Apples, peeled and diced
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Butter (melted, for the topping)
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Optional: powdered sugar or maple syrup for serving
Directions
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I start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish and spreading the cubed bread evenly inside.
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In a large bowl, I whisk together the eggs, apple cider, milk, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
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I fold in the diced apples and pour the mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently so it soaks in.
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I cover the dish and refrigerate it overnight, or let it sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb.
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Before baking, I preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
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For the topping, I combine a bit of brown sugar and melted butter, then drizzle it over the top of the casserole.
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I bake it uncovered for 45–50 minutes, until the top is golden and the custard is set.
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I let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar or drizzling with warm maple syrup.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 8 servings. It takes 15–20 minutes to prep, then 45–50 minutes to bake. If I make it ahead, I just pop it in the oven in the morning with no extra work.
Variations
Sometimes I mix in chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts for added crunch. I’ve also used a mix of apples and pears for a more complex fruit flavor. If I want a richer custard, I use cream instead of milk. And for extra indulgence, I’ve even added a layer of cream cheese or drizzled caramel over the top before serving.
storage/reheating
I store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I pop a slice in the microwave or warm the whole dish in the oven at 325°F until heated through. It also freezes well—I wrap individual portions and reheat them as needed for a quick breakfast.
FAQs
Can I use apple juice instead of apple cider?
I wouldn’t recommend it—apple cider has a deeper, spiced flavor that really makes this dish shine. Apple juice just doesn’t give the same result.
What kind of apples should I use?
I like to use a mix of tart and sweet apples—Granny Smith and Honeycrisp are my go-tos for balance and texture.
Can I use another type of bread?
Yes, I’ve made this with challah, sourdough, and even croissants. As long as it’s sturdy and a bit stale, it works great.
Do I have to let it sit overnight?
No, but letting it soak at least 30 minutes is key. Overnight gives the best texture, but I’ve had great results with shorter times too.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! I’ve used almond milk or oat milk and vegan butter with good results. Just make sure to choose a rich, unsweetened variety.
Conclusion
Baked Apple Cider French Toast is everything I love about fall in one warm, comforting dish. The tender apples, cozy spices, and sweet custard-soaked bread come together perfectly for a breakfast that feels both nostalgic and special. Whether I’m sharing it with family or savoring a quiet morning, it’s a recipe that always brings comfort and joy to the table.
