French Toast Sticks Recipe

There’s something undeniably joyful about French Toast Sticks. Maybe it’s their playful shape, perfect for little hands (and big ones too!), or perhaps it’s the irresistible combination of crispy edges and soft, custardy insides. In our home, French Toast Sticks are a weekend morning staple, a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings smiles to everyone’s faces. I remember the first time I made these for my kids – their eyes lit up as they dipped those golden-brown sticks into maple syrup, and the happy silence that followed was music to my ears. This recipe isn’t just about breakfast; it’s about creating moments of simple joy and delicious memories. Whether you’re looking for a fun way to start the day, a delightful brunch option, or a sweet treat for an afternoon snack, this French Toast Sticks recipe is your answer. It’s incredibly easy to make, customizable to your taste, and always a hit. Get ready to transform ordinary bread into extraordinary, dippable delights!

Ingredients

• 8 slices of bread, about ½ inch thick – Choose your favorite bread! Brioche, challah, Texas toast, or even day-old white bread work wonderfully. Stale bread soaks up the custard better without becoming soggy.
• 4 large eggs – These are the binding agent and provide richness and structure to the French toast sticks. Use fresh, high-quality eggs for the best flavor and texture.
• ½ cup milk – Whole milk will give the richest flavor and creamiest texture, but you can also use 2%, skim, or plant-based milk alternatives like almond, soy, or oat milk.
• ¼ cup granulated sugar – Adds sweetness to the custard and helps create a beautiful golden-brown crust when cooked. Adjust the amount to your preference for sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances the flavor profile, adding a warm and aromatic note to the French toast sticks. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best taste.
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon – Provides a classic warm spice flavor that complements the sweetness perfectly. You can adjust the amount or add other spices like nutmeg or cardamom.
• ¼ teaspoon salt – Balances the sweetness and enhances all the flavors in the recipe. Just a pinch is enough to make a difference.
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, or vegetable oil – Used for cooking the French toast sticks. Butter adds a rich, buttery flavor, while oil is a good alternative for a lighter option or for those avoiding dairy.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread: Begin by slicing your chosen bread into sticks. For each slice of bread, you can typically get 3-4 sticks depending on the size and shape of your loaf. Aim for sticks that are about 1 inch wide and 3-4 inches long. If you are using pre-sliced bread, you can simply cut each slice into strips. Using slightly stale bread is ideal as it will absorb the custard mixture without becoming overly soggy. If your bread is very fresh, you can lightly toast it in a low oven (about 200°F or 95°C) for 5-10 minutes to dry it out slightly. This step is crucial for achieving perfectly textured French toast sticks that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Set the bread sticks aside while you prepare the custard.
2. Whisk the Custard: In a medium-sized bowl, crack the 4 large eggs. Whisk them well until the yolks and whites are fully combined and the mixture is slightly frothy. This ensures a smooth and even custard. Next, pour in the ½ cup of milk. You can use any type of milk you prefer – whole milk will result in a richer, creamier custard, while lower-fat milk or plant-based milk options like almond milk or oat milk will work perfectly well too, offering a slightly lighter texture. Add the ¼ cup of granulated sugar to the bowl. The sugar adds sweetness to the French toast sticks and also contributes to the golden-brown caramelization during cooking. Follow with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Vanilla extract is a key flavor enhancer, adding warmth and depth to the custard. Pure vanilla extract is recommended for the best flavor, but imitation vanilla will also work in a pinch. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and ¼ teaspoon of salt. Cinnamon provides that classic French toast spice, and salt is essential for balancing the sweetness and enhancing all the flavors in the mixture. Whisk all the ingredients together thoroughly until they are completely combined and the sugar is dissolved. The custard mixture should be smooth and homogenous.
3. Soak the Bread Sticks: Now it’s time to soak the bread sticks in the prepared custard. Place the bread sticks in a shallow dish or baking pan. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread sticks, ensuring that each stick is coated. Let the bread sticks soak in the custard for about 10-15 seconds per side. Don’t soak them for too long, as this can make them soggy, especially if you are using very soft bread. The goal is to allow the bread to absorb just enough custard to become moist and flavorful, but not so much that it becomes mushy. If you are using thicker slices of bread or a denser bread like brioche, you might soak them for slightly longer, perhaps 20 seconds per side. Turn the sticks gently to ensure even soaking on all sides.
4. Cook the French Toast Sticks: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add 1 tablespoon of butter or vegetable oil to the skillet and let it melt and heat up. Butter will add a richer flavor and help create a golden-brown crust, while oil is a good alternative if you prefer a lighter option or are avoiding dairy. Once the skillet is hot and the butter is melted (or oil is heated), carefully place the soaked bread sticks onto the hot skillet. Do not overcrowd the skillet; work in batches if necessary to ensure that the sticks cook evenly and get nicely browned. Cook the French toast sticks for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Keep an eye on them and adjust the heat if needed. If they are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low. Flip the sticks gently with a spatula to cook the other side. The French toast sticks are done when they are golden brown on all sides and feel slightly firm to the touch.
5. Repeat and Serve: Continue cooking the remaining soaked bread sticks in batches, adding more butter or oil to the skillet as needed. Once each batch is cooked, remove the French toast sticks from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess butter or oil. This will help keep them crispy. Repeat the cooking process until all the soaked bread sticks are cooked. Serve the French toast sticks immediately while they are warm and crispy. They are delicious served with a variety of toppings, such as maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy your homemade French Toast Sticks!

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300-350 calories This is an estimated value and can vary depending on the type of bread, milk, and cooking oil used, as well as serving size.
• Fat: 10-15 grams per serving Includes both saturated and unsaturated fats, primarily from eggs, milk, and butter. Fat provides energy and helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
• Sugar: 15-20 grams per serving Primarily from added sugar and naturally occurring sugars in milk and bread. Moderate sugar intake is part of a balanced diet, but be mindful of added sugars.

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and can vary. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator with specific ingredient details.

Preparation Time

• Prep time: 10 minutes This includes slicing the bread into sticks and whisking together the custard mixture. It’s a quick and easy process, perfect for busy mornings or when you need a fast and satisfying treat.
• Cook time: 15 minutes The actual cooking time on the skillet will depend on the size of your skillet and how many batches you need to cook. Cooking in batches ensures even browning and crispiness.
• Total time: 25 minutes From start to finish, you can have delicious homemade French Toast Sticks ready to enjoy in just about 25 minutes. This makes it a great option for a relatively quick and easy breakfast or snack.

How to Serve

French Toast Sticks are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some delicious serving suggestions:

• Classic Syrup Dip:
  • Maple Syrup: The quintessential pairing for French toast! Warm maple syrup is perfect for dipping and adds a rich, sweet flavor.
  • Pancake Syrup: A budget-friendly alternative to maple syrup, offering a similar sweetness and syrupy texture.
  • Fruit Syrups: Try syrups flavored with berries, peaches, or other fruits for a fruity twist.
• Powdered Sugar Dusting:
  • Simple Sweetness: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a delicate sweetness and a beautiful snowy appearance.
  • Cinnamon Sugar: Mix powdered sugar with a pinch of cinnamon for an extra layer of warm spice flavor.
• Fresh Fruit Toppings:
  • Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries add freshness, sweetness, and a burst of color.
  • Sliced Bananas: A classic and comforting topping that complements the French toast perfectly.
  • Peaches or Nectarines: Sliced peaches or nectarines, especially when in season, offer a juicy and sweet topping.
• Whipped Cream or Yogurt:
  • Whipped Cream: Adds a light and airy sweetness and a touch of indulgence.
  • Greek Yogurt: For a healthier option, serve with a dollop of Greek yogurt. You can sweeten it with honey or maple syrup if desired.
• Dipping Sauces:
  • Chocolate Sauce: A decadent and kid-friendly option. Warm chocolate sauce is perfect for dipping.
  • Caramel Sauce: Adds a rich, buttery, and sweet caramel flavor.
  • Fruit Compotes: Homemade or store-bought fruit compotes, like berry or apple compote, provide a chunky and flavorful topping.
• Nut Butters:
  • Peanut Butter: Creamy peanut butter adds protein and a savory-sweet element.
  • Almond Butter: A healthy and delicious alternative to peanut butter.
  • Hazelnut Spread: For a more indulgent treat, serve with hazelnut spread (like Nutella).
• Savory Twists (for a less sweet version):
  • Bacon or Sausage: Serve alongside crispy bacon or sausage for a balanced breakfast.
  • Scrambled Eggs: Pair with scrambled eggs for a more substantial and savory meal.

Additional Tips for Perfect French Toast Sticks

1. Choose the Right Bread: The type of bread you use significantly impacts the final result. Brioche, challah, and Texas toast are excellent choices because they are sturdy and slightly sweet, holding up well to soaking and cooking. Day-old bread of any kind is also ideal as it’s slightly drier and absorbs the custard without becoming soggy. Avoid very thin or delicate breads as they may fall apart.
2. Don’t Over Soak: While you want the bread to absorb the custard, over-soaking will lead to soggy French toast sticks. A quick dip of about 10-15 seconds per side is usually sufficient for most types of bread. Thicker or denser breads might need a few seconds more, but always err on the side of less soaking to maintain texture.
3. Control the Heat: Cooking French toast sticks requires medium heat. If the heat is too high, the sticks will brown too quickly on the outside before they are cooked through on the inside. If the heat is too low, they may become pale and not get that desirable crispy exterior. Adjust the heat as needed during cooking to maintain a consistent golden-brown color and ensure even cooking.
4. Use Butter (or a Good Alternative): Butter adds a wonderful richness and flavor to French toast sticks, and it also helps create a beautifully browned crust. If you prefer a lighter option or need to avoid dairy, vegetable oil or coconut oil are good alternatives. For the best flavor, clarified butter (ghee) is also an excellent choice as it has a high smoke point and a rich buttery taste.
5. Spice it Up: While cinnamon is classic, don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices. A pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even pumpkin pie spice can add a unique and delicious twist. You can also add a hint of citrus zest, like orange or lemon zest, to the custard for a brighter flavor.
6. Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the custard mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. This is a great time-saver, especially for busy mornings. However, it’s best to soak and cook the French toast sticks fresh for the best texture and flavor.
7. Keep Warm in the Oven: If you’re making a large batch or want to keep the French toast sticks warm while you prepare other breakfast items, you can keep them warm in a preheated oven at a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C). Place the cooked sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet to prevent them from becoming soggy.
8. Get Creative with Toppings: While maple syrup and powdered sugar are classic, don’t limit yourself! Encourage everyone to get creative with toppings. Set up a toppings bar with various fruits, syrups, sauces, whipped cream, nuts, and sprinkles, and let everyone customize their own French toast sticks. This is especially fun for kids and makes breakfast interactive and exciting.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What type of bread is best for French Toast Sticks?

A: For the best French Toast Sticks, choose sturdy and slightly dense breads like brioche, challah, Texas toast, or even day-old white bread. These breads hold their shape well and absorb the custard without becoming too soggy. Avoid very soft or thin breads.

Q2: Can I use different types of milk in the custard?

A: Yes, you can use various types of milk. Whole milk will give the richest and creamiest texture, but 2%, skim, almond milk, soy milk, oat milk, or any other milk alternative will work well. Plant-based milks are great for making vegan French toast sticks.

Q3: How can I prevent my French Toast Sticks from becoming soggy?

A: To prevent sogginess, use slightly stale bread, don’t over-soak the bread in the custard (10-15 seconds per side is usually enough), and cook them at medium heat to ensure they cook through and crisp up properly. Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet while cooking.

Q4: Can I make French Toast Sticks ahead of time?

A: While best served fresh, you can make French Toast Sticks ahead of time. Cook them as directed, let them cool completely, and then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a toaster oven, oven (at 350°F or 175°C until warmed through and crispy), or air fryer for the best results. Microwaving is not recommended as it can make them soggy.

Q5: How do I keep French Toast Sticks warm if I’m making a large batch?

A: To keep French Toast Sticks warm, preheat your oven to a low temperature (around 200°F or 95°C). Place the cooked sticks on a wire rack set over a baking sheet and keep them in the warm oven until ready to serve. This will help maintain their crispiness and warmth.

Q6: Can I freeze French Toast Sticks?

A: Yes, French Toast Sticks freeze well. Let them cool completely after cooking. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for about 1-2 hours until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Reheat directly from frozen in a toaster oven, oven, or air fryer until heated through and crispy.

Q7: Can I make vegan French Toast Sticks?

A: Yes, you can easily make vegan French Toast Sticks. Substitute the eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon flaxseed meal mixed with 3 tablespoons of water, let sit for 5 minutes to thicken) or a commercial egg replacer. Use plant-based milk and vegan butter or oil for cooking.

Q8: What are some fun flavor variations I can try?

A: Get creative with flavors! Try adding different spices like nutmeg, cardamom, or pumpkin pie spice to the custard. You can also add citrus zest (orange or lemon), a splash of almond extract, or even a tablespoon of cocoa powder for chocolate French Toast Sticks. Experiment and find your favorite flavor combinations!

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