French Toast Sticks Recipe

French toast sticks are a delightful twist on the classic breakfast favorite, combining ease of preparation with the comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla. Perfectly crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these sticks are ideal for dipping into syrup or enjoying with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weekend brunch, this French Toast Sticks Recipe is sure to please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into this delicious adventure!

Top Reasons to Make French Toast Sticks Recipe

• Fun and Interactive: Perfect for kids and adults alike, dipping French toast sticks into syrup is a delightful experience.
• Easy to Prepare: With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe comes together quickly, making it a fantastic choice for busy mornings.
• Versatile: Customize your French toast sticks with various toppings or dips, allowing everyone to create their own perfect bite.
• Use Up Stale Bread: This recipe is a fantastic way to repurpose day-old brioche or French bread, reducing food waste.
• Kid-Friendly: The combination of sweet flavors and a fun shape makes these an instant hit with children.

What You’ll Need

• 8 slices brioche bread or French bread (day-old/stale is best): The base for your French toast sticks. Stale bread absorbs the custard mixture better.
• 4 large eggs: Provides structure and richness to the custard.
• 2/3 cup whole milk: Adds creaminess; you can substitute with almond or oat milk for a different flavor.
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (lightly packed): Sweetens the custard while adding a hint of molasses flavor.
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract: Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness of the mixture.
• 6 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal: For a crunchy coating that adds flavor and texture.
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter: For frying, ensuring a golden brown finish.
• Serving suggestions: Maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for topping.
• Sprinkle of powdered sugar (optional): For a beautiful finish on your plate.

Equipment at a Glance

• Mixing bowl: For combining the custard ingredients.
• Whisk: To blend eggs, milk, sugar, and vanilla smoothly.
• Knife: For slicing the bread into sticks.
• Skillet or griddle: For cooking the French toast sticks evenly.
• Spatula: To flip the sticks without breaking them.
• Shallow dish: For coating the sticks in crushed cereal.

Directions: French Toast Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Slice the brioche or French bread into thick sticks, about 1 inch wide. Day-old bread is ideal as it holds up better in the custard.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined and slightly frothy.

Step 3: Crush the Cereal

Place the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal in a shallow dish and crush it gently with your hands or a rolling pin until it resembles coarse crumbs.

Step 4: Dip the Bread Sticks

Dip each bread stick into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Make sure the bread is well-coated but not overly soggy.

Step 5: Coat with Cereal

After dipping in the custard, roll each stick in the crushed cereal until fully coated. This will give a delicious crunch to your French toast sticks.

Step 6: Heat the Skillet

In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter. Once it’s sizzling, it’s time to cook the sticks.

Step 7: Cook the Sticks

Carefully place a few coated sticks in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 8: Repeat and Serve

Remove the cooked sticks and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess butter. Repeat the process with the remaining bread sticks, adding more butter as needed.

Step 9: Serve Warm

Serve the French toast sticks warm with your choice of maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar for an extra special touch.

Quick Replacement Ideas

• For a dairy-free version, substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk.
• Use coconut sugar or granulated sugar instead of light brown sugar if that’s what you have on hand.
• If you don’t have Cinnamon Toast Crunch, any other sweet cereal can work for coating.
• Feel free to add spices like nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the custard for a unique flavor twist.

Chef’s Notes

• For the best texture, use stale bread as it absorbs the custard without getting too soggy.
• Experiment with different cereals for coating—Frosted Flakes or even crushed graham crackers can work!
• Don’t rush the cooking process; medium heat ensures a golden exterior without burning.
• For a fun twist, try adding chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a decadent touch!

Storage Pro Tips

Leftover French toast sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the toaster or a preheated oven (350°F) for about 5-10 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. You can also freeze them for up to a month. Just make sure to freeze them in a single layer before transferring them to a freezer bag.

Common Qs About French Toast Sticks Recipe

Can I make these French toast sticks in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the custard and coat the sticks ahead of time. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best texture.

What is the best bread for French toast sticks?

Brioche and day-old French bread are excellent choices due to their soft texture and ability to absorb the custard without falling apart.

How do I make the sticks crispy?

Coating the sticks in crushed cereal before frying gives them a crunchy texture. Make sure to cook them in enough butter and at the right temperature for a crispy finish.

Can I add toppings to the custard mixture?

Absolutely! You can mix in a bit of cinnamon, nutmeg, or even a splash of orange zest to the custard for a flavorful twist.

Similar Recipes

• Cinnamon Roll French Toast Casserole
• Vegan Chickpea Stew
• Vegan Banana Bread
• Blueberry Pancakes

Before You Go

Indulging in a warm plate of French toast sticks is not just a breakfast choice; it’s an experience filled with joy and comfort. The combination of crispy coating and a soft, flavorful interior makes this French Toast Sticks Recipe a must-try. Whether you enjoy them as a leisurely weekend treat or a quick weekday breakfast, you’ll find that they’re sure to be a hit with family and friends alike. Let your creativity shine with toppings and dips, and don’t forget to savor each delicious bite! Happy cooking!