Everyone loves French toast. Topping it with apples and cheddar cheese will make everyone at brunch even happier. And if that’s not enough, this recipe is a snap to make.

You can even cook it ahead of time and reheat it when you come to the table. I like it Fuji apples, but Cortland or Granny Smith apples will also work well, closer to the texture of the pie.

4 servings

Ingredients

• 45 to 60 mL (3 to 4 tbsp.) butter 2 apples, peeled and diced 2 mL (½ tsp.) cinnamon
• 2 eggs
• 175 mL (¾ cup) milk
• 1 brioche bread from the day before
• 125 mL (½ cup) aged cheddar cheese, grated
• Powdered sugar and maple syrup, to serve
  

How to

In a small skillet, melt 15 to 30 mL (1 to 2 tbsp.) butter over medium heat.

Add apples, sprinkle with cinnamon and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently, until apples are tender and golden. Set aside.

Beat eggs and milk in a shallow bowl. Set aside.

Cut bread into eight thick slices. Pour apple mixture evenly over four slices of bread. Sprinkle with cheese. Top with a slice of brioche bread. Dip each sandwich into egg mixture to soak.

Heat electric grill over medium heat. (Alternatively, cook French toast in a large skillet. ) Add 30 mL (2 tbsp.) of the remaining butter.

When butter is melted, place French toast sandwich on grill. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side or until sandwich is golden brown, crisp on both sides and cheese has melted.

If necessary, keep French toast warm in a 250°F (120°C) oven.

Sprinkle with powdered sugar and drizzle with maple syrup just before serving.

Tips

Replace the apples with pears and choose other varieties of cheese. Or, instead of putting the cheese in the sandwich, top the bread with a dollop of cheese lighter and smoother, like ricotta cheese.