Upside-down apple french toast

Upside-down apple French toast features layers of caramelized apples, crunchy hazelnuts, and dried cranberries, all baked in a custardy mixture. This sweet dish offers a delightful combination of flavours, perfect for brunch.

26 Jan 2026
Cook time 55 min
Prep time 30 min

Ingredients:

1/2 cup butter
1/2 cup brown sugar
1/3 cup orange juice
1/3 cup heavy whipping cream
2 apples
1/3 cup hazelnuts
1/3 cup dried cranberries
3 eggs
3/4 cup milk (1% fat)
1 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp vanilla extract

Upside-down apple French toast is a delightful twist on the classic breakfast dish, combining the sweetness of apples, the crunch of hazelnuts, and the tang of dried cranberries. This dish is perfect for a cozy morning brunch or a special weekend treat.

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Prepare the Caramel Sauce:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the brown sugar, orange juice, and heavy whipping cream to the melted butter. Stir to combine and bring to a boil. Let it simmer for about 3-4 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Pour the caramel sauce into a 9x13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.

3. Layer the Apples:
- Arrange the thinly sliced apples on top of the caramel sauce in a single layer.

4. Add Nuts and Cranberries:
- Sprinkle the chopped hazelnuts and dried cranberries evenly over the apples.

5. Prepare the French Toast Batter:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined.

6. Assemble the French Toast:
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated. Arrange the soaked bread slices on top of the apple mixture in the baking dish.

7. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed, and the apples are tender.

8. Serve:
- Remove from the oven and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Carefully invert the baking dish onto a large serving platter, allowing the caramel and apple layer to cover the top.
- Serve warm, optionally garnished with a dollop of whipped cream or a sprinkle of powdered sugar.

With its rich flavors and inviting aromas, Upside-down Apple French Toast is bound to become a family favorite. Enjoy it warm, topped with a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of maple syrup for an extra special touch. Happy cooking!

Upside-down apple french toast FAQ:

How long should I bake the Upside-down Apple French Toast?

Bake the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and puffed and the apples are tender.

What pan size is recommended for this recipe?

A 9x13-inch baking dish is recommended to spread the caramel sauce and layer the ingredients evenly.

Can I substitute the heavy whipping cream in the caramel sauce?

Yes, you can substitute heavy whipping cream with half-and-half or whole milk, but the sauce will be less rich and creamy.

How should I store leftovers of the Upside-down Apple French Toast?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

Thick slices of bread such as brioche or challah work best for French toast, as they absorb the egg mixture well without becoming soggy.

Tips:

- Ensure the butter is melted completely before adding the brown sugar to create a smooth caramel base.

- Thinly slice the apples for even cooking and better caramelization.

- Whisk the eggs thoroughly to incorporate more air for a fluffier French toast.

- Soak the bread slices in the egg mixture for at least a few minutes to allow them to absorb the flavors well.

- Use a non-stick pan or a well-seasoned skillet to prevent the toast from sticking.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 400kcal
Protein 6g
Carbohydrates 40g
Fiber 2.66g
Sugar 33g
Fat 27g

Upside-down apple french toast