French toast sticks are the perfect balance of crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy on the inside, and infused with cinnamon sweetness. Whether you’re looking for a quick breakfast or a fun brunch idea, these easy-to-make sticks will impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into this mouthwatering recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
- Perfect for Dipping: These sticks pair wonderfully with maple syrup, honey, or chocolate sauce.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids excited about breakfast.
- Customizable: Add flavors like nutmeg, vanilla, or even a dusting of powdered sugar.
Ingredients
To make delicious French toast sticks, you’ll need:
- 4 slices of thick-cut bread (Brioche or Texas Toast works best)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk (or heavy cream for richer taste)
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- A pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for frying)
- Maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Cut the slices of bread into thirds to create stick-shaped pieces. Stale bread works best, as it absorbs the egg mixture without getting too soggy.
Step 2: Make the Batter
In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Dip the Bread
Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, coating all sides but not soaking it too much to avoid sogginess.
Step 4: Cook the French Toast Sticks
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add butter.
- Once the butter is melted, place the coated bread sticks in the pan.
- Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, flipping until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Remove from heat and let them cool slightly. Dust with powdered sugar and serve with maple syrup, honey, or fruit for dipping.
Pro Tips for the Best French Toast
- Use stale bread: Fresh bread can become too soggy. If using fresh bread, let it sit out for a few hours before making the recipe.
- Don’t skip the cinnamon and vanilla: These add a rich, warm flavor that makes a big difference.
- Fry in butter: This gives a beautiful golden-brown color and a richer taste.
- Make them ahead: French toast sticks freeze well. Simply let them cool, then store them in an airtight bag. Reheat in the oven or toaster for a quick breakfast.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of bread?
Yes! Brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best, but any sturdy bread can be used.
Can I make French toast sticks in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook them at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftover French toast sticks?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet or oven for a crispy texture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Use almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk instead of dairy milk, and substitute butter with coconut oil.
Now that you have the perfect French toast sticks recipe, go ahead and treat yourself to a delicious and satisfying breakfast. If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to share it and check out more amazing recipes on Cucina Flavors!