If you’re searching for the ultimate make-ahead breakfast treat that will win over both kids and grown-ups alike, look no further than these French Toast Sticks. With their perfectly golden crisp edges, fluffy centers, and irresistible cinnamon-vanilla aroma, they’re nostalgic, delightfully dunkable, and genuinely hard to resist. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family on a cozy weekend morning, prepping freezer-friendly breakfasts for busy weekdays, or aiming to impress brunch guests, this recipe is about to earn a permanent spot in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed by how such simple fridge and pantry staples can come together to create something so satisfying. Each ingredient in these French Toast Sticks works hard to deliver that creamy, custardy bite with just the right sweetness and spice.
- Thick-cut bread: Sturdy slices like Texas toast or brioche soak up the custard without falling apart and yield a beautifully soft interior.
- Eggs: The foundation of the custard; eggs bind everything together and give a rich, luscious texture.
- Whole milk: Adds moisture and creaminess, balancing the eggy mixture for the perfect soak.
- Granulated sugar: Just a touch sweetens the French Toast Sticks and helps with golden browning.
- Vanilla extract: Infuses the custard with a lovely, aromatic note that’s classic in French toast.
- Ground cinnamon: Brings warmth and coziness, making every bite feel special.
- Pinch of salt: Enhances flavors and keeps the sweetness in check.
- Butter (for cooking): Provides a golden, crisp crust and that unmistakable flavor.
How to Make French Toast Sticks
Step 1: Slice the Bread
Begin by cutting each slice of your thick-cut bread into three or four generous sticks. Don’t worry about perfection: a little variance just adds to the homemade charm. Using day-old bread is ideal here, as it holds up best and yields a heartier French Toast Stick.
Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture
In a wide, shallow bowl, briskly whisk together the eggs, whole milk, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt. The cinnamon and vanilla swirl through this mixture, promising the cozy flavors you love in classic French toast, but in stick form.
Step 3: Dip the Bread Sticks
Now comes the fun part! Dip each bread stick individually into the custard, turning to coat every side thoroughly, but don’t let them linger. Too long in the mixture and they’ll get soggy; a quick but thorough dunk is key for those signature tender-yet-toasty French Toast Sticks.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt half of the butter until foamy. Arrange the sticks in batches, careful not to overcrowd the pan. Let them cook for two to three minutes per side, rotating to brown every edge. When your kitchen fills with the scent of caramelized cinnamon, you’ll know they’re almost ready.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Once your French Toast Sticks are deeply golden all over, transfer them to a plate. Serve them piping hot, accompanied by your favorite toppings and plenty of syrup for dunking. Watch them disappear faster than you’d ever expect!
How to Serve French Toast Sticks
Garnishes
For a pretty finishing touch, dust your French Toast Sticks with powdered sugar or shower them with fresh berries for juicy bursts of color. A dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of warm maple syrup instantly elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
Pair these sticks with crispy oven bacon, breakfast sausage, or a platter of seasonal fruit. For a brunch buffet, consider serving with scrambled eggs and hash browns to round out the meal and make it thoroughly satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a playful breakfast bar, set out bowls of dipping sauces—think chocolate ganache, flavored yogurts, or a tangy berry compote. Arrange the French Toast Sticks in a basket lined with parchment or skewer them for a fun, kid-friendly twist. They’re also a hit as bite-sized hors d’oeuvres at brunch parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover French Toast Sticks keep beautifully. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They’re just as delicious reheated and will save busy mornings in a pinch.
Freezing
For long-term storage, arrange cooled sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer bag and tuck them away for up to two months. This method ensures your French Toast Sticks don’t stick together and remain ready for single-serve breakfasts.
Reheating
To revive that fresh-from-the-pan flavor, reheat the sticks in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes. For extra convenience, you can even pop them into a toaster—just keep an eye out so they don’t over-brown. They’ll emerge warm, crisp, and just as wonderful as the day they were made.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of thick-cut bread?
Yes, you can, but thicker bread is much less likely to become soggy and holds up better with the custard. If regular sandwich bread is what you have, use slightly less soaking time to ensure the French Toast Sticks stay intact.
What’s the best way to prevent French Toast Sticks from becoming too mushy?
Use day-old or slightly stale bread for maximum structure, and make sure to dip the sticks briefly in the custard—just enough to coat. Cooking them on medium heat helps build up a crispy crust without burning.
Are French Toast Sticks suitable for freezing and meal prepping?
Absolutely! Cook, cool, and freeze them in a single layer before storing in a freezer bag. Pull out just what you need for easy breakfasts on busy mornings.
Can I make French Toast Sticks dairy-free?
Definitely. Swap in your favorite non-dairy milk (like almond, soy, or oat) and use a dairy-free butter or a bit of oil for cooking. They’ll still be delicious and satisfying.
What toppings go best with homemade French Toast Sticks?
Classic maple syrup is always a hit, but try fresh berries, honey, chocolate sauce, or a swirl of cinnamon sugar. Let everyone customize to their own taste!
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried homemade French Toast Sticks hot from the skillet, you’re in for a seriously good treat. They’re easy enough for a weekday but festive enough for weekend brunch, and I just know you’ll love them as much as my family does. Give this recipe a try and watch smiles appear around your table!
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
Enjoy these delightful French Toast Sticks for a delicious and easy breakfast or snack. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, they are a family favorite!
Ingredients
Bread:
- 6 slices thick-cut bread (such as Texas toast or brioche)
Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- pinch of salt
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions
- Cut Bread: Cut each slice of bread into 3 or 4 thick sticks.
- Prepare Egg Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
- Cook: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt the butter. Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, coating all sides, and let excess drip off. Place the coated sticks onto the hot skillet in batches and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, turning to brown all sides evenly. Remove from skillet once golden and cooked through.
- Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
Notes
- Day-old bread works best as it holds up better during dipping.
- You can freeze cooked sticks and reheat in the toaster or oven for a quick breakfast.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 sticks
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 270mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 190mg
