French Toast Sticks Recipe

Bread: Preferably thick slices, as they hold up better when dipped in the egg mixture.

Eggs: They help to bind the ingredients and give the French toast sticks their rich texture.

Milk: Adds moisture and richness to the egg mixture.

Vanilla extract: Provides a sweet and aromatic flavor.

Cinnamon: Adds a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness.

Butter: Used for cooking, it gives the French toast sticks a golden, crispy exterior.

When preparing French toast sticks, ensure that the bread you use is slightly stale. Fresh bread can become too soggy when dipped in the egg mixture. If you only have fresh bread, try toasting it lightly before cutting it into sticks. This will help the bread maintain its structure and give you a perfectly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and fluffy.

• bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and slightly sweet, making it a perfect alternative for a more decadent French toast.

• bread - Substitute with challah: Challah's soft texture and slight sweetness work well for soaking up the egg mixture.

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

• eggs - Substitute with banana: Use ¼ cup of mashed banana per egg. This adds a natural sweetness and works well as a binder.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that provides a similar consistency.

• milk - Substitute with coconut milk: Coconut milk adds a rich, creamy texture and a hint of coconut flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but complementary flavor profile.

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

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

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

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that adds a slight coconut flavor.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a plant-based alternative that provides a similar texture and flavor.

• Allow the French toast sticks to cool completely on a wire rack to prevent them from becoming soggy.
• For short-term storage, place the cooled French toast sticks in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To freeze, arrange the cooled French toast sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This prevents them from sticking together.
• Place the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours, or until the French toast sticks are frozen solid.
• Transfer the frozen French toast sticks to a resealable freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness.
• When ready to enjoy, reheat the French toast sticks directly from the freezer. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and place the sticks on a baking sheet. Bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the French toast sticks in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat until they are warmed through and golden brown.
• Serve the reheated French toast sticks with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover French toast sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and crispy.

• Toaster Oven Method: Set your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the French toast sticks in a single layer on the toaster oven tray. Heat for 5-7 minutes, turning them once to ensure even reheating.

• Microwave Method: Place the French toast sticks on a microwave-safe plate. Cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or cooking spray. Place the French toast sticks in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Air Fryer Method: Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the French toast sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Heat for 3-4 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• Knife: To cut each slice of bread into 3 sticks.

• Mixing bowl: To whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon.

• Whisk: To mix the egg mixture thoroughly.

• Skillet: To cook the French toast sticks until golden brown.

• Spatula: To flip the bread sticks and ensure even cooking.

• Measuring cups: To measure out the milk.

• Measuring spoons: To measure out the vanilla extract and cinnamon.

• Plate: To serve the French toast sticks warm with syrup or your favorite toppings.

Pre-cut the bread: Cut the bread into sticks the night before and store them in an airtight container.

Mix the batter ahead: Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon in advance and refrigerate.

Use a large skillet: Cook more French toast sticks at once by using a large skillet or griddle.

Preheat the skillet: Ensure the skillet is hot before adding the butter to reduce cooking time.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch and freeze the extras. Reheat in the oven or toaster for a quick breakfast.