Baked Apple Cider French Toast brings a delightful twist to a classic breakfast dish, perfect for chilly mornings and festive occasions. With its blend of sweet apple cider and warm spices, this dish transforms ordinary French toast into something truly extraordinary. The soft, custardy bread infused with the flavors of cinnamon and nutmeg will fill your kitchen with an irresistible aroma, making breakfast an event to look forward to.
Recipe Information
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 60 minutes
- Servings: 8
- Difficulty Level: Easy
Nutrition Information
- Calories per serving: Approximately 310
- Protein: 10g per serving
- Carbohydrates: 45g per serving
- Fat: 10g per serving
- Fiber: 2g per serving
- Sugar: 14g per serving
- Sodium: 230mg per serving
Why Make This Baked Apple Cider French Toast
This Baked Apple Cider French Toast stands out for its rich flavors and delightful texture, making it perfect for brunch with friends or a cozy family breakfast. The use of apple cider gives it a seasonal touch, while spices like cinnamon and nutmeg add warmth. It’s not just delicious; it’s comforting and memorable. Plus, it’s a fantastic make-ahead dish, saving you time on those busy mornings.
How to Make Baked Apple Cider French Toast
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups apple cider
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- Butter for greasing
- Powdered sugar for serving (optional)
- Syrup for serving (optional)
Directions:
### Step 1: Preparation
Begin by greasing a baking dish with butter to prevent sticking. This creates a wonderfully golden crust when baking.
### Step 2: Mixing
Next, cut the French bread into thick slices—about one inch each—and arrange them neatly in the greased baking dish. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, apple cider, milk, brown sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, nutmeg, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
### Step 3: Soaking
Pour the egg mixture over the arranged bread slices, making sure to soak every slice. Press down gently to ensure the bread absorbs the custard mixture fully.
### Step 4: Refrigerating
Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is preferred. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures a creamy texture.
### Step 5: Prepping for Baking
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Once preheated, take the dish out of the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for about 20 minutes.
### Step 6: Baking
Bake in the oven for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set. Your kitchen will fill with a heavenly aroma that’ll have everyone anticipating breakfast!
### Step 7: Serving
Serve the warm French toast dusted with powdered sugar and drizzled with syrup if desired, making each bite decadent and delightful.
How to Serve Baked Apple Cider French Toast
This dish pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a side of crispy bacon for a complete breakfast experience. Serve it at brunch parties or family gatherings for a crowd-pleasing treat that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Baked Apple Cider French Toast
Store any leftover Baked Apple Cider French Toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual servings in the microwave or pop them back in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Baked Apple Cider French Toast
- Choose day-old French bread for better absorption of the custard.
- Customize the spices based on your taste; try adding allspice or cardamom for a unique flavor twist.
- For extra decadence, mix in a handful of chopped nuts or raisins before soaking the bread.
- If you prefer a crustier top, broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes of baking, watching closely to avoid burning.
Delicious Variations
- Pumpkin Spice: Substitute 1 cup of pumpkin puree for 1 cup of milk and add additional pumpkin pie spice.
- Nutty Crunch: Add chopped pecans or walnuts into the custard mixture for added texture and flavor.
- Berry Delight: Incorporate fresh or frozen berries into the dish for a fruity twist that pairs beautifully with the apple cider.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe? Yes, gluten-free bread works perfectly in this recipe. Just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold the custard.
- Can I make this recipe without apple cider? Absolutely! You can replace apple cider with apple juice or even almond milk for a different flavor.
- What can I use instead of brown sugar? You may use white sugar or coconut sugar; just keep in mind it will alter the taste slightly.
- Can this be made vegan? Yes! Substitute eggs with a mixture of flaxseed meal and water, and use non-dairy milk for a vegan option.
- How do I know when it’s done baking? The top should be golden brown, and a toothpick inserted into the center should come out clean.
Conclusion
Baked Apple Cider French Toast is a delightful dish that’s not only easy to prepare but also a feast for the senses. With its warm spices and sweetness, this recipe is bound to become a family favorite. Whether you’re hosting brunch or enjoying a quiet morning at home, this comforting dish is sure to inspire smiles around the table. Give it a try, and savor every delicious bite!
