Whisk the eggs, milk, vanilla, and a pinch of ground cinnamon in a bowl.
Add the bread in a single layer, turning until all the egg is absorbed.
Meanwhile, heat a large frypan over medium heat, melt 1 tb butter, and add apples, stirring to coat until starting to caramelize.
Add the water, cooking until water has evaporated and apples are tender, about 4 minutes.
Pour in the maple syrup and a dash of ground cinnamon; simmer for a minute to combine.
In a large, heated non-stick frypan, melt about 1 tb of butter and sauté the soaked bread until golden brown on each side, about 4 minutes.
Place French toast on a plate and top with apple- maple mixture.