A cozy and protein-packed apple pie French toast bake with a crisp top and soft custardy inside. Each serving packs about 25g of protein — perfect for fall brunch, holiday hosting, or meal prep.
8 slices high-fiber or high-protein bread, cubed
6 large eggs
1 cup milk (240 ml, dairy or plant-based)
2 scoops vanilla protein powder (about ½ cup / 120 ml)
1 tablespoon maple syrup
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
2 medium apples, diced
½ cup chopped pecans (70 g)
Optional: Greek yogurt or extra maple syrup for serving
Preheat the oven
Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Make the custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, protein powder, maple syrup, and cinnamon until smooth.
Assemble the bake
Add cubed bread, diced apples, and pecans to the dish. Pour custard mixture evenly over, making sure all bread pieces are coated.
Bake until set
Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until golden on top and set in the middle (center reaches 175–180°F).
Serve and enjoy
Serve warm with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of maple syrup.
For overnight prep: assemble, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake the next morning.
To make gluten-free: use dense gluten-free bread.
For dairy-free: use almond, soy, or oat milk and a plant-based protein powder.
Store leftovers in the fridge (up to 4 days) or freeze slices (up to 2 months). Reheat in oven, microwave, or air fryer.