Are you looking for a weekend breakfast that's both delicious and easy to make? Look no further! This French toast recipe with apples is the perfect way to start your day, offering a delightful blend of sweet and comforting flavors. It's a fantastic option for a special brunch, or a simple yet satisfying week-day morning treat. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it an ideal addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire, even though it is more suited to breakfast or brunch. Get ready to experience the magic of homemade cooking with this simple yet elegant dish.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices of challah bread (or brioche, Texas toast, or your favorite bread)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (whole milk is recommended for richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 2 medium apples (such as Honeycrisp, Fuji, or Gala), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)
Instructions:
Prepare the Apple Slices:
- Begin by peeling, coring, and thinly slicing your chosen apples. Aim for even slices for consistent cooking. You can use a mandoline slicer for perfectly uniform slices if you have one.
Make the Custard:
- In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined. Make sure there are no visible egg whites remaining.
Soak the Bread:
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are fully coated. Let the bread soak for about 15-20 seconds per side, allowing it to absorb the custard without becoming soggy.
Cook the French Toast:
- Heat the butter in a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and foaming, add the apple slices to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until softened and lightly browned. Remove the apples from the pan and set aside.
- Add the soaked bread slices to the same skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Avoid overcrowding the pan; cook in batches if necessary for even browning.
Assemble and Serve:
- Once cooked, arrange the French toast on plates. Top with the cooked apple slices and drizzle generously with maple syrup. Dust with powdered sugar, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt to the egg mixture.
- Feel free to experiment with different spices, such as cardamom or allspice.
- Add a sprinkle of chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) to the batter or as a topping.
- For a richer flavor, use cream instead of milk, or a combination of both.
- If you prefer a less sweet French toast, reduce the amount of maple syrup.
- Leftover French toast can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster or skillet before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate for one serving of this French Toast with Apples is around 300-350 calories, with varying amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use an online nutritional calculator with your specific ingredients and quantities.
This easy French toast recipe with apples is a fantastic way to elevate your breakfast game. It's a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!