If you’ve ever found yourself craving a breakfast that blends crispy, golden edges with a soft, custardy center, you absolutely have to try this French Toast Sticks Recipe. It takes the classic comfort of French toast and transforms it into fun, easy-to-dip sticks that kids and adults alike will flock to. Perfect for a cozy morning or a weekend treat, these sticks offer that perfect balance of cinnamon-spiced sweetness and buttery richness you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is all it takes to create a batch of irresistible French toast sticks. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and that magnificent golden color.
- Thick-cut bread: Using Texas toast or brioche ensures the sticks hold their shape and soak up just the right amount of custard.
- Eggs: The backbone of the coating, eggs provide structure and richness to the batter.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and moisture to the mixture.
- Granulated sugar: Delivers a subtle sweetness that balances the warm cinnamon.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the batter with a lovely aromatic depth.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings that cozy spice that makes French toast irresistible.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and rounds out the sweetness.
- Butter: For cooking, it adds a rich, golden crust and prevents sticking.
How to Make French Toast Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Bread Sticks
Start by cutting each slice of thick bread into 3 or 4 sturdy sticks. This shape is key for perfect dipping and easy munching. Day-old bread works beautifully here as it’s firm enough to hold up without getting mushy.
Step 2: Mix the Egg Batter
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until smooth and well combined. This mixture will coat the bread sticks with a luscious custard that bakes up tender and flavorful.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet and Butter
Warm a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt your butter. The butter is essential for creating that golden, crispy exterior that makes French toast sticks so addictive.
Step 4: Dip the Bread Sticks
One by one, dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, ensuring every side gets coated. Let excess drip off so they don’t become soggy.
Step 5: Cook to Golden Perfection
Place the coated sticks in batches onto the hot skillet. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side, turning to brown all sides evenly. You want them beautifully golden and cooked through, with some crispiness on the outside.
Step 6: Serve Warm
Remove the finished French toast sticks from the skillet and serve immediately while warm and inviting. They taste best fresh, but are versatile enough to store for later as well.
How to Serve French Toast Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your French toast sticks with powdered sugar for a delicate sweetness or dust with cinnamon. Fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, or banana slices add a refreshing contrast and a burst of natural flavor. A drizzle of warm maple syrup is a classic finishing touch that elevates these sticks from simple to spectacular.
Side Dishes
Pair your French toast sticks with crispy bacon or sausage for a savory balance. A bowl of yogurt or cottage cheese can add creaminess and protein, making the meal feel complete. For a lighter option, a simple green smoothie or fresh juice complements the sweet sticks beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Consider arranging your French toast sticks in a fun pattern on a colorful plate or stacking them like a small tower for a playful presentation kids will adore. Serve dipping sauces on the side—think chocolate, caramel, or fruit compotes—to turn this familiar breakfast into an interactive feast. Using miniature skewers or toothpicks makes for easy dipping and sharing too.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra French toast sticks, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To keep their texture intact, avoid stacking them too tightly and line the container with parchment paper if possible.
Freezing
French toast sticks freeze beautifully, making them a fantastic make-ahead breakfast. Arrange cooked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months, ready for quick snacks or breakfast fixes.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy those leftover or frozen French toast sticks, reheat them in a toaster oven or conventional oven at medium heat to bring back that crispiness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make them soggy. A quick few minutes in a hot oven will have them tasting freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use different types of bread for this French Toast Sticks Recipe?
Absolutely! While thick-cut bread like Texas toast or brioche gives the best texture, you can use challah or even a sturdy white or whole wheat bread. Just make sure it’s thick enough to hold the custard without falling apart.
What’s the secret to perfectly crispy French toast sticks?
The key is using butter in the pan and cooking over medium heat patiently until all sides are golden brown. Also, letting excess egg mixture drip off before cooking prevents sogginess and helps achieve that delightful crunch.
Can I make the batter in advance?
It’s best to prepare the egg mixture fresh for the fluffiest, most flavorful result. However, you can whisk it up a few minutes ahead and keep it in the fridge, just give it another stir before dipping your bread sticks.
Are French toast sticks kid-friendly?
Definitely! Kids love the fun stick shape, perfect for dipping in syrup or fruit sauces. The mild sweetness and cinnamon make them a favorite breakfast or snack that’s easy to handle and enjoy.
How can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
You can substitute the eggs with a flax or chia seed egg replacer and use a plant-based milk such as almond or oat milk. For cooking, swap butter for coconut oil or vegan margarine. Keep in mind the texture and flavor might vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about homemade French toast sticks that instantly makes mornings brighter. This French Toast Sticks Recipe is straightforward, comforting, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. Once you try making these crispy, cinnamon-kissed delights, they’ll quickly become your go-to breakfast that brings everyone to the table with smiles. Don’t wait to savor that first golden bite!
Print
French Toast Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 3–4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and crispy French Toast Sticks made with thick-cut bread dipped in a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture and cooked to golden perfection on the stovetop. Perfect for a quick, kid-friendly breakfast or snack, these sticks can be served with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (such as Texas toast or brioche)
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread: Cut each slice of thick-cut bread into 3 or 4 thick sticks, making them easy to dip and cook evenly.
- Mix the Egg Batter: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Heat the Skillet: Place a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter, ensuring the cooking surface is evenly coated and hot enough for frying.
- Dip the Bread Sticks: Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, making sure all sides are thoroughly coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off before placing on the skillet.
- Cook the French Toast Sticks: Arrange the coated bread sticks onto the hot skillet in batches. Cook each side for 2 to 3 minutes, turning frequently to brown all sides evenly until golden and cooked through.
- Serve Warm: Remove the cooked sticks from the skillet and serve immediately with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best as it holds up better during dipping and cooking without becoming soggy.
- French Toast Sticks can be frozen after cooking and reheated in a toaster or oven for a quick and convenient meal.
