Caramel Apple French Toast (Ready-to-Print Version)

Brioche soaked in spiced custard, topped with warm caramelized apples and a touch of cinnamon.

# What You’ll Need:

→ French Toast

01 - 8 slices thick-cut brioche loaf
02 - 4 large eggs
03 - 1 1/3 cups whole milk
04 - 1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
05 - 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
06 - 2 1/2 tablespoons granulated sugar
07 - Pinch of salt
08 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter

→ Caramel Apple Topping

09 - 3 medium Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored and sliced
10 - 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
11 - 1/3 cup brown sugar
12 - 3 tablespoons heavy cream
13 - 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
14 - Pinch ground nutmeg
15 - Pinch of salt

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Whisk together eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, granulated sugar, and salt in a bowl until smooth and homogenous to create a spiced custard.
02 - Arrange brioche slices in a shallow dish and pour custard over them, soaking for about 2 minutes on each side without oversaturating.
03 - Heat butter in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook soaked brioche slices 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly puffed. Keep cooked slices warm on a wire rack or in a low oven.
04 - Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add apple slices and sauté 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Sprinkle brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt; cook 3 to 4 more minutes until apples are caramelized. Stir in heavy cream and cook for 30 seconds until a rich caramel sauce forms.
05 - Plate warm French toast and spoon caramel apple topping generously over each slice. Serve immediately for best texture and flavor.

# Handy Tips:

01 - Use day-old brioche to prevent sogginess and ensure a crisp exterior with a creamy center.
02 - Maintain medium heat when cooking to achieve deep golden color without burning.
03 - Keep cooked slices warm on a wire rack in a 200°F (93°C) oven to preserve crispness.
04 - Deglaze the apple pan with water or apple cider after cooking to capture caramelized flavors in a sauce.