Delicious, custardy, and coated with crisp cinnamon sugar; French Toast Sticks are perfect for picky kids or an indulgent brunch with friends.
The other morning, my kids and I were cuddled up in my giant bed watching Bluey and giggling. To drive it home, as the best mom ever, I suggested breakfast in bed. This is a huge no-no when my husband is home, but he had an early day in the city.
I go big, too. I serve it on a little bed and breakfast tray, I take their orders, and I treat them like guests at a fancy hotel. My daughter asked for French toast sticks, and I thought, no problem. But here’s the kicker: She said, but from the freezer, not homemade. I nearly cried! This does not happen in my house. My family even asks why we go to restaurants when everything Mommy makes tastes better.
After some back and forth, I realized it wasn’t the “homemade” part that was the issue, but all the not-quite-it recipes I had followed up to this point. So, I researched the best French toast stick recipe (spoiler alert: it’s this one), and got cooking.
Needless to say, this recipe was a hit. And it got from my kitchen to that little breakfast tray in under thirty minutes!
If you are a fan of full-sized French Toast, you will absolutely love French toast sticks. They have more edges to cover in cinnamon-sugary goodness, and they’re perfect for a large group or tiny hands. As a bonus, serve with a side of caramelized bananas from this Bananas Foster French Toast for a five-star meal.
Are French Toast Sticks Healthy?
While French toast sticks don’t normally meet the standards for a healthy breakfast, we can always opt for healthy ingredients. For example, this recipe calls for Texas Toast, which is thick sliced bread. You can always choose something like sourdough bread instead, which has a lower glycemic index.
You can also choose gluten-free bread, if you follow a gluten-free diet, and cut it into thick slices. This recipe also includes protein from eggs and whole milk; plus these French toast sticks are vegetarian-friendly.
Choosing the Perfect Bread for French Toast Sticks
Selecting the right bread can make or break your French toast sticks. Choose a thick, hearty bread that can absorb and hold your batter. I love using seeded Italian bread, which may not be the healthiest choice, but I just love the way the sesame seeds pair with the sweetness.
Look for whole grain bread, wheat bread, sourdough bread, or sprouted bread for wholesome options. Regardless of what loaf you decide on, cut each slice about an inch thick, then cut into strips.
How to make ahead and store
French toast sticks can be stored in an airtight container or food-safe bag for up to 4 days in the fridge or up to 2 months in the freezer. To enjoy, reheat in the oven or toaster oven for best results.
Serving Suggestions
The best way to enjoy French toast sticks is with maple syrup and Bacon (made in the oven for faster clean-up). I love fresh fruit or a healthy homemade concoction like this Strawberry Chia Jam or these delightful Cinnamon Apples. For an added dose of protein, serve your French toast sticks with these Egg Bites – another wonderful, grabbable breakfast option.
Ingredients
- 4 slices thick Texas Toast or brioche bread each slice cut into 4 strips
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup whole milk
- 1 pinch kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Unsalted butter as needed, for frying
- Maple syrup for serving, optional
- Fresh fruit for serving, optional
Instructions
- In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, salt, and vanilla extract.
- In another shallow bowl, mix sugar and cinnamon together.
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Dip bread strips into the egg mixture, allowing excess to drip off, and place in the skillet.
- Cook until golden brown on both sides, about 2 to 3 minutes per side. Immediately transfer the cooked French toast sticks to the cinnamon sugar bowl and roll in the mixture until well coated.
- Serve with maple syrup and fresh fruit if desired.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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