Save Crispy air fryer French toast sticks are the ultimate solution for busy mornings when everyone wakes up with a sweet tooth. In less than twenty minutes you get perfectly golden sticks with a tender center that are easy for little fingers to grab and dunk. This recipe saved the day when I needed a make-ahead option for sleepovers and weekday breakfast alike with nostalgic flavor.
These always disappear fast in my house. I love that I can prep them ahead and refrigerate leftovers for school mornings too. The air fryer makes the outside extra crispy without much added fat.
Ingredients
- Thick-cut brioche or Texas toast: Makes each stick sturdy and fluffy at the center Choose the freshest loaf or grab one from the bakery section for richness
- Large eggs: Provides structure and that classic custardy French toast finish Pick eggs with bright yolks if you can
- Whole milk: Best for richness and moisture You can substitute half-and-half for an extra luxe result
- Granulated sugar: Gives just enough sweetness to balance the bread
- Pure vanilla extract: Lifts the flavor to something special Always go for real vanilla if possible
- Ground cinnamon: Gives warmth and a hint of bakery flavor Use Saigon cinnamon for deeper aroma if available
- Salt: Sharpens all the flavors in the egg mixture and keeps it from tasting flat
- Maple syrup: Essential for dunking Pick pure maple for best taste
- Powdered sugar for serving: Adds a bakery-style touch but is optional
Instructions
- Cut the Bread:
- Slice each piece of brioche or Texas toast into three even sticks If your bread is especially soft let it sit out while you prep the egg mixture so it does not fall apart
- Prepare the Egg Mixture:
- In a shallow bowl whisk together eggs whole milk sugar vanilla cinnamon and salt Whisk until the mixture looks uniform with no streaks of egg white left Floating flecks of cinnamon are a good sign
- Preheat the Air Fryer:
- Set your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit and let it preheat for three minutes This step gives you the crispiest finish
- Dip the Bread Sticks:
- Quickly dip each stick into the egg mixture making sure all sides are coated but do not soak them too long Lay dipped sticks on a plate as you go
- Arrange in Air Fryer:
- Place the coated sticks in a single layer inside the air fryer basket The pieces should not touch too much so the hot air will crisp every side Work in two or three batches if your fryer is small
- Air Fry the Toast Sticks:
- Cook for six to eight minutes turning each stick halfway through with tongs You want them puffed golden brown and slightly crisp If they feel a little too soft add one or two extra minutes
- Serve Warm:
- Pile the finished French toast sticks onto a plate Dust with powdered sugar if you like and serve warm with individual cups of maple syrup for easy dipping
Save Perfect make-ahead for brunch parties or busy school mornings My youngest always sneaks the end pieces while I am dusting them with powdered sugar The cinnamon scent fills the whole kitchen and we end up with a line at the fryer on weekends
Storage Tips
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days To reheat just pop them back in the air fryer for two to three minutes until warm and crisp again They also toast up well in a toaster oven
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use any sturdy bread if you do not have brioche Try challah thick white sandwich bread or even whole grain in a pinch For a dairy free version swap in your favorite non dairy milk
Serving Suggestions
French toast sticks are just the start Serve with bowls of berries greek yogurt or even peanut butter for dipping For brunch add crispy bacon or sausage links for a savory side
Save If you love this breakfast you will find endless ways to make it your own Try different breads swap spices or mix in orange zest for a fresh take The best part is watching everyone gather around for just one more warm dipped stick
Recipe FAQs
- → What bread works best for French toast sticks?
Thick-cut brioche or Texas toast holds up well, absorbing the egg mixture while staying fluffy and crisp when air fried.
- → Can I use dairy alternatives in the egg mixture?
Yes. Substitute whole milk with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free option. Texture may vary slightly, but results are delicious.
- → Should bread be fresh or stale?
Day-old or slightly stale bread yields better texture, allowing sticks to soak up flavor without becoming soggy during air frying.
- → How do I prevent overcrowding in the air fryer?
Arrange sticks in a single layer, leaving space between each one. Cook in batches to ensure even air circulation and crispiness.
- → How can I add flavor variety?
Try adding nutmeg to the egg mixture or topping sticks with berries, Greek yogurt, or flavored syrups to enhance taste and presentation.
- → Are French toast sticks suitable for vegetarians?
Yes. The ingredients used are vegetarian-friendly, making these sticks great for most vegetarian diets.