Name: French Toast Sticks
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices bread; 4 eggs; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 teaspoons vanilla extract; 2 tablespoons powdered sugar; ½ teaspoon cinnamon; butter for brushing the pan; powdered sugar; cinnamon sugar; maple syrup; berries

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

French toast sticks are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite. With their crispy exteriors and soft, pillowy centers, these golden-brown sticks are perfect for dipping in syrup or enjoying with a sprinkle of powdered sugar. They capture all the cozy flavors of traditional French toast but in a handheld format that’s just as fitting for busy mornings as it is for leisurely brunches.

Pin this for later!

I first made these French toast sticks for a weekend gathering, hoping to surprise my friends. As I served them warm with a side of maple syrup and fresh berries, the smiles and happy chatter around the table told me I’d hit the mark. They’re not just a hit with adults; kids absolutely love them too, making them a perfect breakfast choice for families.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make French Toast Sticks
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
French Toast Sticks

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip these up in just 40 minutes from prep to plate.
Irresistible Flavor: The creaminess of the custard coupled with a hint of cinnamon makes them utterly delectable.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Fun, dippable sticks that look as good as they taste!
Flexible Serving: Perfect for mornings, snacks, or even as a sweet treat for guests.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets without compromising flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

8 slices bread: Choose thick slices for a heartier texture; brioche or challah are great options for a richer flavor.
4 large eggs: The base for your custard, providing richness and helping to bind everything together—room temperature eggs work best.
1 cup heavy cream: Gives a luxurious, creamy texture to the custard; feel free to substitute with whole milk for a lighter version.
2 teaspoons vanilla extract: Adds warmth and depth of flavor—opt for pure vanilla extract for the best taste.
2 tablespoons powdered sugar: Sweetens your custard and helps the coating stick; you can reduce or skip it if you prefer less sweetness.
½ teaspoon cinnamon: Infuses your French toast sticks with a warm, aromatic flavor that’s quintessential to this dish.
Butter for brushing the pan: Enhances flavor and helps achieve that golden-brown crust—non-stick spray is a good alternative.
Powdered sugar and cinnamon sugar: For dusting your sticks before serving; they add that extra flair.
Maple syrup: A classic pairing that perfectly complements the sweetness of the sticks.
Berries: Fresh berries like strawberries or blueberries offer a fruity contrast and vibrant color to the dish.

How to Make French Toast Sticks

Prepare the Bread: Start by trimming the crust off all four sides of your 8 slices of bread, then cut each slice into 1-inch sticks. This gives you the perfect size for dipping and ensures even cooking.
Make the Custard: Crack 4 large eggs into a large, shallow bowl and whisk until well blended. Next, whisk in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract until the mixture becomes smooth and resembles a custard.
Add Sweetness and Spice: Incorporate 2 tablespoons of powdered sugar and ½ teaspoon of cinnamon into the custard, whisking until no lumps remain. This will add a lovely sweetness and warmth to your sticks.
Preheat the Pan: Heat a large pan or griddle over medium heat, aiming for approximately 325°F. Brush it with butter or coat it with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
Dip the Sticks: Take each bread stick and dip it into the custard mixture, making sure all sides are well-coated. Place the coated sticks onto the griddle, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
Cook to Perfection: Allow the sticks to cook for about 5 minutes, or until they become golden brown. Flip them over gently and cook for an additional 5 minutes to crisp up the other side. You’ll know they’re ready when the edges are golden and fragrant.
Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, move the French toast sticks to a plate and dust with powdered sugar or cinnamon sugar just before serving. Pair with maple syrup and fresh berries for a breakfast that’s both beautiful and delicious!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover French toast sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to one day. For longer storage, refrigerate them for up to three days. You can also freeze them for up to three months by wrapping each stick individually in plastic wrap and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through. Note that the texture may change slightly, but a quick panning in a hot skillet can help refresh their crispiness.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid using stale bread; fresh bread yields a better texture. If you’re using leftover bread, you can dry it out in the oven for a few minutes for best results.
Make sure your custard is mixed thoroughly to eliminate lumps before dipping the bread.
Feel free to customize the flavor by adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the custard for a citrus twist.
If your sticks are thicker, adjust cooking time accordingly. Aim for a beautiful golden-brown color on all sides for the best results.
Consider adding a sprinkle of nutmeg for an additional flavor layer if you’re a fan of warm spices.

If you love the comforting taste of French toast, these French toast sticks are sure to become a breakfast favorite! With their easy preparation and endless serving options, they’re perfect for any occasion. Perfectly sweetened and ready to be dunked, you can enjoy them as breakfast, a snack, or even dessert. The next time you find yourself craving something deliciously comforting, reach for this recipe—you and your loved ones will not be disappointed!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make French toast sticks ahead of time?

Certainly! You can prepare the custard mixture ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just dip the bread sticks and cook them fresh when you’re ready to enjoy.

Can I use gluten-free bread for this recipe?

Yes, you can easily swap regular bread for gluten-free bread. Just make sure it’s a type that holds up well when soaked to avoid sogginess.

Why did my French toast sticks turn out soggy?

Sogginess usually happens when the bread is too fresh or not allowed to soak in the custard mixture long enough. Ensure your bread is slightly stale, and don’t let it soak for more than a few seconds.

What can I serve with French toast sticks?

These delightful sticks pair beautifully with maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of chocolate sauce for a more indulgent treat. Feel free to mix and match to find your perfect combination!

⭐ If you make my French Toast Sticks recipe, Awesome! I would love to hear from you. Please give it a star rating and review below! 👇

French Toast Sticks