In a skillet, add apple slices, brown sugar, and butter. Cook over medium heat until brown sugar has dissolved and butter has melted. Mix in 1/4 tsp of the vanilla and 1/2 tsp of the cinnamon. Reduce heat to simmer. Cook 6-8 minutes longer. Remove from heat. Allow to cool slightly and thicken while you prepare the french toast.

In a large, wide bowl, add the eggs, vanilla, milk, and cinnamon. Whisk together. Stir in flour and whisk until smooth. Dip one slice of bread in the mixture, careful to coat both sides. Lift the bread out of the liquid and allow to drip off excess.

 Cook toast in a griddle, coated with butter, over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until lightly browned. Flip and cook other side 1-2 minutes. Repeat with remaining bread slices.

Sprinkle with powdered sugar if desired. Then generously top with apple-cinnamon mixture along with whipped cream if desired.  Serves 3-4.