If you’re craving a cozy, delicious breakfast that’s simple to prepare yet bursting with comforting flavors, this Baked French Toast Sticks Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine golden, crispy edges with a tender, custardy center—perfect for dipping in warm maple syrup or dusted lightly with powdered sugar. These sticks are a fantastic twist on traditional French toast, offering an easy-to-handle finger food that’s great for kids and adults alike. Whether you’re whipping up a weekend brunch or a special weekday treat, this recipe is sure to become a fast favorite in your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, everyday ingredients is the key to nailing this recipe. Each ingredient plays an important role in building the rich texture, subtle sweetness, and warming flavors that make these Baked French Toast Sticks irresistible.
- Thick-cut bread: Using Texas toast or brioche allows the bread to soak up the custard without falling apart, giving you that perfect crispy-inside and tender-outside texture.
- Large eggs: The eggs create the custard base that binds the sticks and adds a rich, velvety texture.
- Milk: Adds moisture and balances the richness of the custard.
- Heavy cream: Brings a luscious creaminess that makes these toast sticks extra indulgent.
- Granulated sugar: Just the right amount to sweeten the custard without being overpowering.
- Ground cinnamon: Adds warmth and a classic spice note that’s essential to any great French toast.
- Vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors with a lovely fragrant depth.
- Pinch of salt: Balances the sweetness and elevates the overall flavor.
- Butter or nonstick spray: Essential for greasing the baking sheet to ensure your toast sticks don’t stick and come out perfectly crisp.
- Powdered sugar and maple syrup (optional): For that classic finishing touch and extra sweetness when serving.
How to Make Baked French Toast Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Bread
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Then, cut each thick slice of bread into 3 to 4 sticks. This size ensures they cook evenly and are easy to dip once baked.
Step 2: Make the Custard Mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk vigorously until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard will saturate the bread sticks, giving them that tender, flavorful center that makes this recipe so special.
Step 3: Soak and Arrange the Toast Sticks
Dip each bread stick into the custard mixture, letting it soak for a few seconds so it absorbs enough flavor without becoming soggy. Place the soaked sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, making sure to give them some space for even baking.
Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Bake the sticks for 15 minutes in the preheated oven. Then, carefully flip each piece to ensure both sides get golden brown and crisp up nicely. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until they have a beautiful golden color with slightly crisp edges. The result is irresistibly crunchy on the outside and tender inside.
How to Serve Baked French Toast Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Serving these Baked French Toast Sticks warm is essential for that freshly baked charm. Dust them lightly with powdered sugar to add a delicate sweetness and an elegant touch. Pair them with rich, pure maple syrup for dipping, or even fresh berries and whipped cream for a festive flair.
Side Dishes
For a balanced breakfast, these sticks pair exceptionally well with crispy bacon, sausage links, or a fresh fruit salad. You can also serve them alongside scrambled eggs or creamy yogurt for a heartier meal that satisfies everyone at the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like mixing it up? Try stacking your Baked French Toast Sticks in a fun pyramid on a colorful platter with small bowls of various dips like chocolate sauce, berry compote, or cinnamon honey butter. They also make a fantastic finger food for brunch parties or kid-friendly breakfasts on busy mornings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They keep well for up to 3 days without losing their wonderful texture, making them perfect for a quick breakfast or snack later.
Freezing
To enjoy this Baked French Toast Sticks Recipe any day, freeze the fully baked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to a month without compromising their flavor or crispness.
Reheating
The best way to reheat leftover or frozen baked French toast sticks is in the oven or an air fryer. This method restores their crisp edges and warm center far better than a microwave, keeping every bite delightful and close to freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use regular sandwich bread instead of thick-cut bread?
While regular sandwich bread can work, thick-cut bread like Texas toast or brioche is preferable because it holds up better when soaked and baked, avoiding sogginess and giving you that perfect texture.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the milk and heavy cream with your favorite plant-based milks like almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative for greasing. The flavor might be subtly different but just as delicious.
How long can I keep baked French toast sticks in the fridge?
Stored properly in an airtight container, the sticks will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Just reheat before serving to bring back their crispness.
Can I add other spices or flavors to the custard mixture?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with a pinch of nutmeg, cardamom, or even orange zest to add unique flavor twists to your Baked French Toast Sticks Recipe.
Are Baked French Toast Sticks kid-friendly?
Definitely! Their fun finger-food format makes them perfect for kids, and the familiar flavors appeal to even the pickiest eaters. Plus, dipping options make breakfast interactive and exciting.
Final Thoughts
This Baked French Toast Sticks Recipe is a warm hug on a plate that anyone can enjoy. Its simplicity, combined with comforting flavors and a fun presentation, makes it a must-try for your morning routine. Give it a go—your family and friends will thank you for introducing them to this new favorite breakfast treat.
Print
Baked French Toast Sticks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Baked French Toast Sticks offer a delicious and easy breakfast treat, combining thick-cut bread soaked in a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture and baked until golden and crisp. Perfect for a quick morning meal or snack, they can be dusted with powdered sugar and served with maple syrup for extra sweetness. This kid-friendly recipe is freezer-friendly and ideal for using day-old bread.
Ingredients
Bread
- 8 slices thick-cut bread (like Texas toast or brioche)
Egg Mixture
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
For Baking
- Butter or nonstick spray for greasing
To Serve (Optional)
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a large baking sheet or line it with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Prepare Bread Sticks: Cut each slice of thick-cut bread into 3 to 4 sticks, making manageable pieces for dipping and baking.
- Mix Egg Batter: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
- Soak Bread Sticks: Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak thoroughly for a few seconds to absorb the flavors.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the soaked bread sticks onto the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, ensuring they are not touching for even baking.
- Bake First Side: Bake in the preheated oven for 15 minutes to start setting and browning the sticks.
- Flip and Continue Baking: Flip each bread stick carefully and bake for an additional 10 minutes or until the sticks are golden brown and have slightly crisp edges.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and serve warm. Optionally, dust with powdered sugar and provide maple syrup for dipping for added sweetness.
Notes
- These French toast sticks can be frozen after baking; reheat them in the oven or air fryer for a quick and convenient breakfast option.
- For best texture and absorption, use day-old bread rather than fresh bread.
