Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe

Bread: Preferably thick slices, as they hold up better during cooking.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds richness.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy mixture for coating the bread.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.

Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy note that enhances the overall flavor.

Sugar: Adds sweetness to the French toast sticks.

To ensure your French toast sticks come out perfectly crispy, make sure to use thick slices of bread that can hold up to the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. If you find your bread is too fresh and soft, consider leaving it out for a few hours or toasting it lightly before dipping. This will help the bread sticks maintain their shape and achieve that desirable golden brown finish in the air fryer.

• bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and slightly sweet, making it an excellent choice for French toast sticks.

• bread - Substitute with challah: Challah is another rich, slightly sweet bread that absorbs the egg mixture well.

• eggs - Substitute with flax eggs: Mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water per egg. This is a good vegan alternative.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free option that works well in the egg mixture.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a subtle coconut flavor and is also dairy-free.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor to the French toast sticks.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet flavor that can replace cinnamon.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon along with other spices, adding a more complex flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey is a natural sweetener that can replace sugar.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can also be used as a natural sweetener, adding a hint of maple flavor.

• Allow the French toast sticks to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled French toast sticks in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If stacking them, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.
• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing.
• To freeze, arrange the French toast sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, about 1-2 hours.
• Once frozen, transfer the French toast sticks to a resealable freezer bag or airtight container. Label with the date for reference.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the refrigerated French toast sticks in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• For frozen French toast sticks, reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warm and crispy.
• Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover French toast sticks in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• For a quick microwave option, place the French toast sticks on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway to ensure they don't become too soggy.

• If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the French toast sticks on a baking sheet in a single layer. Bake for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warm and slightly crispy.

• For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place the French toast sticks in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are heated through and have a nice golden crust.

• If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast sticks on the toaster oven tray in a single layer. Toast for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warm and crispy.

• Air fryer: Used to cook the French toast sticks to a golden brown and crispy texture.

• Knife: Used to cut each slice of bread into three sticks.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar.

• Whisk: Used to mix the egg mixture thoroughly.

• Tongs: Used to dip each bread stick into the egg mixture and to flip the sticks halfway through cooking.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk and sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vanilla extract and cinnamon accurately.

Pre-mix the egg mixture: Prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly dip the bread sticks in the morning.

Use thick bread: Opt for thick slices of bread as they hold up better during dipping and air frying, saving you from dealing with soggy pieces.

Single layer arrangement: Arrange the bread sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and avoid the need for multiple batches.

Preheat the air fryer: Preheat your air fryer while you prepare the bread sticks to save time and ensure they cook evenly.