Warm & Sweet: Cracker Barrel-Inspired Apple French Toast Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting taste of Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast to start your morning right.

Inspired by the beloved country-style breakfast from Cracker Barrel, this dish features thick slices of golden-brown French toast topped with caramelized cinnamon apples, creating the perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors.

Whether you’re craving a cozy weekend brunch or a special holiday breakfast, this homemade version is easy to make and tastes just as indulgent as the restaurant favorite.

With a rich, custardy texture and the warm spice of sautéed apples, this dish brings a touch of Southern comfort straight to your kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There’s more to this French toast than just its delicious flavor.

Here’s why it deserves a spot on your breakfast table:

1. A True Cracker Barrel Classic at Home

No need to wait in line at the restaurant—this homemade version captures all the nostalgic flavors of Cracker Barrel’s apple French toast, right in your own kitchen.

2. The Perfect Balance of Flavors and Textures

The soft, pillowy French toast pairs beautifully with the slightly tart and caramelized apple topping, giving you the best of both worlds: sweet and buttery, with a hint of cinnamon spice.

3. Easy and Customizable

This recipe is simple to follow and can be adjusted to suit your taste.

Prefer a richer flavor? Use brioche. Want an extra crunch? Add chopped pecans. The possibilities are endless!

4. Ideal for Any Occasion

Whether you’re making breakfast for the family, hosting a brunch, or just treating yourself, this dish is a showstopper that feels fancy but is effortless to prepare.

Ingredients Needed

Before you start making this delicious Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast, gather all the necessary ingredients.

Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will ensure the best flavor and texture.

For the French Toast:

• 4 slices thick-cut bread (Brioche, Texas toast, or Challah)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for a richer taste)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
• 1 tbsp granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp butter (for cooking)

For the Apple Topping:

• 2 medium apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), peeled, cored, and sliced
• 2 tbsp butter
• ¼ cup brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1 tbsp maple syrup
• 1 tsp lemon juice (to enhance the flavor)
• ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (optional, for thickening)

Optional Toppings:

• Powdered sugar
• Whipped cream
• Chopped pecans
• Caramel drizzle
• Extra maple syrup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Making Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast is simple and rewarding.

Follow these steps to achieve the perfect balance of golden, custardy French toast and sweet, spiced apples.

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Topping

1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
2. Add the sliced apples and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they begin to soften.
3. Sprinkle in brown sugar and cinnamon, then stir to coat the apples evenly.
4. Pour in the maple syrup and lemon juice, letting the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
5. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix ½ teaspoon cornstarch with 1 tablespoon water and stir it into the skillet. Cook until the mixture thickens slightly.
6. Remove from heat and set aside while you prepare the French toast.

Step 2: Make the French Toast Batter

1. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

1. Dip each slice of bread into the batter, ensuring both sides are fully coated but not overly soaked.
2. Place the coated bread onto the heated skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.
3. Repeat with remaining slices, adding more butter to the skillet as needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

1. Stack the French toast on a plate and generously spoon the warm apple topping over each slice.
2. Drizzle with extra maple syrup and add your favorite toppings like powdered sugar, whipped cream, or chopped pecans.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy a restaurant-quality breakfast from the comfort of your home!

Serving Suggestions

This Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that pairs well with a variety of sides and drinks.

Here’s how to create a complete and satisfying meal:

1. Classic Breakfast Pairings

• Crispy Bacon or Sausage – The salty, smoky flavors perfectly balance the sweetness of the French toast.
• Scrambled or Fried Eggs – Add a protein boost for a more filling meal.
• Breakfast Potatoes – Serve with hash browns or home fries for a hearty touch.

2. Beverage Pairings

• Freshly Brewed Coffee – A strong, hot cup of coffee complements the rich flavors of the dish.
• Fresh Orange Juice – A glass of citrusy goodness helps cut through the sweetness.
• Apple Cider – Warm or chilled, apple cider enhances the apple flavors in the dish.

3. Extra Toppings for a Gourmet Touch

• Whipped Cream – Adds a light and airy sweetness.
• Powdered Sugar – A simple yet elegant finishing touch.
• Caramel Drizzle – Enhances the apple topping with extra richness.
• Chopped Pecans or Walnuts – Provides a nice crunch and nutty flavor.

This French toast is indulgent on its own, but with the right pairings, it becomes a well-rounded and restaurant-worthy breakfast!

Tips for the Best Apple French Toast

To ensure your Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast turns out perfectly every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Use the Right Bread

• Day-old bread works best – Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better without becoming too soggy.
• Thick-cut slices – Brioche, Texas toast, or challah provide the best texture and hold up well when soaked.

2. Perfect the Custard Mixture

• Whisk the eggs and milk thoroughly to ensure an even coating.
• Adjust the amount of cinnamon and nutmeg based on your taste preference.

3. Cook at the Right Temperature

• Medium heat is key – Too high, and the toast will burn before the inside is cooked; too low, and it will be soggy.
• Butter the pan lightly – Using too much butter can cause the toast to fry rather than cook evenly.

4. Don’t Rush the Apple Topping

• Slow-cook the apples to bring out their natural sweetness and allow the flavors to meld together.
• Choose the right apples – Granny Smith for a slightly tart contrast or Honeycrisp for a naturally sweet touch.

5. Keep French Toast Warm Before Serving

• If making multiple servings, place cooked French toast slices on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven to keep them warm while you finish cooking.

Variations and Substitutions

This Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast recipe is already delicious, but you can easily tweak it to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Here are some creative variations and simple ingredient swaps:

1. Bread Options

• Brioche or Challah – For a richer, buttery flavor.
• Sourdough – Adds a slight tang that balances the sweetness.
• Gluten-Free Bread – Works well for those with gluten sensitivities.

2. Apple Substitutions

• Pears – A soft, naturally sweet alternative to apples.
• Berries – Try sautéed strawberries or blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Bananas – Caramelized bananas work beautifully as a topping.

3. Dairy-Free Alternative

• Replace milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk.
• Use vegan butter or coconut oil instead of regular butter.

4. Protein-Boosted Version

• Add a scoop of vanilla protein powder to the custard mixture.
• Serve with Greek yogurt on the side for extra protein.

5. Sugar-Free Option

• Swap maple syrup for sugar-free syrup or honey.
• Use monk fruit or coconut sugar instead of brown sugar.

With these substitutions, you can customize the recipe to fit your dietary needs while keeping all the delicious flavors intact!

Conclusion

Now you have everything you need to make the perfect Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast right at home!

This recipe brings together thick, golden-brown French toast with warm, cinnamon-spiced apples for a comforting and indulgent breakfast.

Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy weekend brunch or a special occasion, this dish is sure to impress.

Plus, with all the variations and substitutions available, you can customize it to fit your preferences perfectly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I make this French toast ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the apple topping in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheat it on the stovetop before serving.

You can also soak the bread in the custard mixture and refrigerate it overnight for an easy morning prep.

2. What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

To maintain the best texture, reheat French toast in a toaster oven or on a skillet over low heat.

The microwave works, but it may make the toast slightly soggy.

Warm the apple topping separately before adding it back on top.

3. Can I use canned apple pie filling instead of fresh apples?

Yes, but fresh apples provide a better texture and flavor.

If you’re short on time, canned apple pie filling can be used—just warm it up and add a little extra cinnamon for a homemade touch.

4. How do I prevent my French toast from getting soggy?

Use day-old, thick-cut bread and don’t let it soak in the custard too long.

Cooking over medium heat ensures the toast cooks through without becoming overly soft.

5. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes! Arrange the soaked bread slices on a buttered baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

This method is great for making a large batch at once!