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Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast

Helen T. Patterson
Recreate the Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast at home with this easy and delicious recipe!
Thick slices of golden French toast are topped with warm, caramelized cinnamon apples, creating a comforting and indulgent breakfast.
Perfect for weekend brunches, holidays, or whenever you’re craving a restaurant-quality meal.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Breakfast, Brunch
Cuisine American, Southern
Servings 4 servings
Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

  • 1 large skillet (for cooking the French toast and apple topping)
  • 1 mixing bowl (for the custard mixture)
  • 1 whisk (to blend the eggs and milk)
  • 1 shallow dish (for dipping bread slices)
  • 1 cutting board (for slicing apples)
  • 1 knife (for peeling and chopping apples)
  • 1 wooden spoon (for stirring the apple topping)
  • 1 spatula (for flipping French toast)

Ingredients
  

For the French Toast:

  • 4 slices thick-cut bread Brioche, Texas toast, or Challah
  • 2 large eggs
  • ½ cup whole milk or heavy cream
  • 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
  • ½ tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water optional, for thickening

Optional Toppings:

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

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Apple Topping

  • In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
  • Add the sliced apples and cook for 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they soften.
  • Stir in brown sugar and cinnamon, coating the apples evenly.
  • Pour in maple syrup and lemon juice, letting the mixture simmer for another 2-3 minutes.
  • If a thicker sauce is desired, stir in cornstarch mixed with water and cook until the sauce thickens.
  • Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Make the French Toast Batter

  • In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and sugar until smooth.

Step 3: Cook the French Toast

  • Heat 1 tablespoon of butter in a skillet over medium heat.
  • Dip each slice of bread into the custard mixture, making sure both sides are coated but not overly soaked.
  • Place the bread onto the hot skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
  • Repeat with the remaining slices, adding more butter as needed.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

  • Place the cooked French toast on plates and spoon the warm apple topping over each slice.
  • Drizzle with extra maple syrup and garnish with toppings like whipped cream, powdered sugar, or chopped pecans.
  • Serve immediately and enjoy!

Notes

  • Bread Choice: Slightly stale bread absorbs the custard better and prevents sogginess.
  • Apple Variety: Granny Smith apples add a tart contrast, while Honeycrisp gives a naturally sweeter taste.
  • Make Ahead: The apple topping can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: Reheat French toast on a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven for best texture.
  • Baking Method: For a hands-free version, arrange soaked bread slices on a baking sheet and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, flipping once.
Keyword Cracker Barrel Apple French Toast