Homemade French Toast Sticks

There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through the kitchen in the morning. For me, French toast has always been a nostalgic breakfast treat, reminding me of lazy weekends and family gatherings. But when I discovered how easy it is to turn this classic dish into portable, kid-friendly French toast sticks, it became a staple in my home. Whether you’re serving them to your little ones, impressing guests at brunch, or simply treating yourself, these homemade French toast sticks are a game-changer.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of pantry staples, you can create a breakfast that feels indulgent yet is surprisingly quick to make. The crispy edges, soft center, and hint of sweetness make these sticks irresistible. Plus, they’re perfect for dipping into maple syrup, whipped cream, or even a drizzle of honey. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never look at French toast the same way again.

What You Need To Make This Recipe

Bread: The foundation of any great French toast is the bread. I recommend using slightly stale bread, like brioche or challah, as it soaks up the custard mixture without falling apart. If you don’t have stale bread, lightly toast it to achieve the same effect.

Eggs: Eggs are the key to creating that rich, custardy texture. They bind everything together and give the French toast sticks their signature golden color when cooked.

Milk: Milk adds creaminess to the custard mixture. For an extra indulgent touch, you can use half-and-half or even heavy cream. If you’re dairy-free, almond milk or oat milk works just as well.

Vanilla Extract: A splash of vanilla extract enhances the flavor, adding a warm, aromatic sweetness that pairs perfectly with the cinnamon.

Cinnamon: Cinnamon is a must for French toast. It brings warmth and depth to the dish, making it feel cozy and comforting.

Butter: Butter is used for cooking the French toast sticks, giving them a crispy, golden exterior. It also adds a rich, savory note that balances the sweetness.

Maple Syrup (optional): While not part of the recipe itself, maple syrup is the perfect accompaniment for dipping or drizzling over the finished sticks.

Ingredients List

6 slices of brioche or challah bread (slightly stale or lightly toasted)
3 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

How to Make Homemade French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting each slice of bread into three even sticks. If your bread is fresh, lightly toast it to help it hold up better when soaked in the custard mixture.

Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined. The mixture should be smooth and slightly frothy.

Step 3: Soak the Bread Sticks

Dip each bread stick into the custard mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated but not overly saturated. Let any excess drip off before transferring it to a plate.

Step 4: Cook the French Toast Sticks

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and add the butter. Once the butter has melted and is slightly bubbly, place the bread sticks in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Transfer the French toast sticks to a plate and serve immediately. They’re best enjoyed warm, with a side of maple syrup for dipping or drizzling.

Tips for Making This Recipe

Use Thick-Cut Bread: Thicker slices of bread will yield sturdier sticks that are easier to handle and dip.
Don’t Over-Soak the Bread: A quick dip is all you need. Over-soaking can make the bread too soggy and difficult to cook evenly.
Adjust the Sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter French toast, add a tablespoon of sugar or honey to the custard mixture.
Keep Them Warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked sticks warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you finish the rest.
Experiment with Toppings: Try serving with fresh berries, powdered sugar, or even a dollop of Nutella for a fun twist.

FAQs

Can I make French toast sticks ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the custard mixture and cut the bread the night before. Store them separately in the fridge, then cook the sticks in the morning for a quick breakfast.

Can I freeze French toast sticks?
Absolutely. Once cooked, let the sticks cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag. Reheat in the oven or toaster for a quick breakfast.

What’s the best bread to use?
Brioche and challah are my top choices because of their rich flavor and soft texture. However, you can use any thick-cut bread you have on hand.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free bread and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.

How do I prevent the sticks from sticking to the pan?
Make sure your skillet is properly heated and well-coated with butter before adding the bread sticks. Non-stick pans also work well for this recipe.

There you have it—a simple, delicious recipe for homemade French toast sticks that’s sure to become a family favorite. Whether it’s a special weekend treat or a quick weekday breakfast, these sticks are guaranteed to bring a smile to your table. Happy cooking!