I love how versatile and easy these French toast sticks are. I can whip them up in 20 minutes with just a few pantry staples, and they freeze beautifully for later. They’re great for kids and adults alike, and dipping them in warm maple syrup is pure breakfast joy. I also appreciate that I can use any kind of milk—whole, almond, oat—depending on what I have on hand. It’s the kind of recipe that makes mornings feel special without much fuss.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 slices thick bread (Texas toast or brioche) 2 large eggs 1 cup whole milk (or almond/oat milk) 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract Maple syrup (for serving)
Directions
I start by whisking together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla in a bowl until it’s smooth and well blended.
Then I slice each piece of bread into thick sticks—about 3 to 4 strips per slice.
I dip each bread stick into the egg mixture for just a few seconds per side, making sure it soaks up enough custard without getting soggy.
I heat a little butter in a skillet over medium heat and cook the sticks until golden brown, about 2–3 minutes per side. I work in batches so they cook evenly and get that beautiful crust.
Once they’re all cooked, I serve them warm with a drizzle (or dunk) of maple syrup. Sometimes I dust a little extra cinnamon sugar on top for fun.
When I want extra flavor, I mix a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom into the custard.
For a crunchy twist, I coat the dipped sticks in crushed cornflakes before frying.
I’ve made these dairy-free using almond or oat milk, and they turn out just as rich.
If I want to make them more decadent, I serve them with whipped cream or fresh berries on top.
I’ve even used cinnamon swirl bread or challah for extra flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
These freeze and reheat wonderfully. After cooking, I let them cool completely, then place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze. Once frozen, I store them in a zip-top bag. To reheat, I pop them in the toaster oven or air fryer at 375°F for about 5 minutes until warm and crisp again.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread?
Yes, I can, but I prefer thick-cut bread like brioche or Texas toast because it holds up better to the custard without getting soggy.
Can I bake these instead of frying?
I’ve baked them at 375°F for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through. They get a little less crisp but still taste amazing.
Can I make them ahead of time?
Definitely. I often cook a double batch and refrigerate or freeze the extras. Then I just reheat as needed for a fast breakfast.
What’s the best way to keep them warm for a crowd?
I keep them on a wire rack over a baking sheet in a 200°F oven while I finish cooking the rest. That way they stay crisp and warm until I’m ready to serve.
Can I turn this into a sweet casserole?
Yes. I’ve layered dipped bread strips in a baking dish, poured the rest of the custard over, let it soak, and baked at 350°F for 30–35 minutes for a French toast bake version.
Conclusion
These French toast sticks are a breakfast favorite for a reason. They’re fast, family-friendly, and deliver all the comfort of traditional French toast in a fun, easy-to-eat form. Whether I’m serving them fresh off the skillet or pulling them from the freezer on a busy morning, they never fail to bring a little joy to the table. Simple, nostalgic, and always delicious—that’s what breakfast should be.
