Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

Introduction

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are a perfect combination of crispy, sweet, and savory in every bite. These delightful sticks take the beloved French toast to a whole new level, offering a deliciously quick and healthy twist on the classic dish. The golden crisp exterior, coated in a generous dusting of cinnamon and sugar, gives way to a soft and fluffy center. They’re the ultimate breakfast treat, snack, or brunch addition, loved by both kids and adults alike.

What I adore about these French toast sticks is how easy and efficient they are to make, especially when cooked in the air fryer. The air fryer makes the sticks perfectly crispy without the need for excessive oil, so you get all the flavor with less of the mess. I first made these on a lazy weekend morning, and they were an instant hit, disappearing off the plate in no time. With just a handful of ingredients, these sticks can be whipped up quickly, making them the ideal solution for busy mornings when you want something indulgent but still simple to prepare.

You can easily adjust this recipe by adding your favorite toppings—whether it’s a drizzle of maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a handful of fresh fruit. These French toast sticks also freeze well, making them perfect for meal prep, so you can enjoy a quick and delicious breakfast any day of the week. I promise, once you try these, they’ll quickly become a household favorite.

Perfect For

This recipe is perfect for a quick breakfast, brunch gatherings, or a sweet snack. It’s ideal for busy mornings when you want something tasty and satisfying without the hassle.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: The air fryer cooks them to perfection in minutes.
• Kid-Friendly: Perfectly portioned sticks make them fun to eat.
• Less Mess: No need for excessive oil or a frying pan—just air fry and enjoy!
• Customizable: Easily adjust the sweetness or add your favorite toppings.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 8 minutes
• Total Time: 18 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories Per Serving: Approximately 180 calories
• Key Nutrients Per Serving:
  • Protein: 6g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Fiber: 1g

Ingredients

• 4 slices of thick-cut bread (brioche or Texas toast works best)
• 2 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (regular or dairy-free)
• 1 tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• Butter-flavored cooking spray or melted butter
• Optional: Maple syrup or fruit for dipping

Ingredient Highlights

• Thick-Cut Bread: Ensures the sticks are sturdy and absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
• Cinnamon Sugar: Adds a sweet, warming flavor to every bite.
• Vanilla Extract: Enhances the richness of the batter.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep the Bread:

1. Slice each piece of bread into three even strips to create sticks.

Make the Batter:

2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and vanilla extract.

Dip and Coat:

3. Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated, but shake off any excess.

Air Fry and Coat:

4. Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
5. Place the coated bread sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding for even cooking. Spray lightly with cooking spray.
6. Cook for 6–8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.

Add Cinnamon Sugar:

7. While the sticks are still warm, mix the sugar and cinnamon in a separate bowl. Roll or sprinkle the cooked French toast sticks in the cinnamon sugar mixture.

How to Serve

Serve the French toast sticks warm with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit for dipping. They’re great as a grab-and-go breakfast or plated for a more indulgent meal.

Additional Tips

• For Even Cooking: Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket.
• Make It Dairy-Free: Use almond milk or oat milk instead of regular milk.
• Extra Crispy: Lightly spray the sticks with cooking spray before air frying.

Recipe Variations

• Savory Twist:
  • For a savory version of your dish, skip the usual cinnamon sugar and instead load it with savory toppings. After cooking, sprinkle with shredded cheese—cheddar, mozzarella, or even Parmesan—for a gooey, cheesy finish. You could also serve it alongside creamy avocado slices for a rich, buttery contrast. For an even heartier option, add a sprinkle of crumbled bacon, sautéed onions, or fresh herbs like chives or parsley to elevate the flavors. This savory variation is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a light dinner, offering a satisfying balance of flavors with a savory punch.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream:
  • If you’re a chocolate enthusiast, give your dish an indulgent twist by drizzling it with rich chocolate syrup. The smooth sweetness of the syrup will melt into the texture, creating a luscious contrast with the dish’s base. For added depth, sprinkle some chocolate chips or cocoa powder over the top and even consider a dollop of whipped cream. If you want to make it even more decadent, drizzle with a combination of melted dark chocolate and a hint of sea salt for a sophisticated touch. This version is perfect for anyone craving a chocolate treat, turning your creation into an irresistible dessert.
• Pumpkin Spice Delight:
  • Embrace the cozy flavors of fall by adding a pinch of pumpkin spice to the egg batter before cooking. The aromatic spices—cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves—infuse the dish with warmth and a delightful depth of flavor. You can also mix in a small amount of pumpkin puree for an extra layer of smooth, velvety pumpkin goodness. The warm, spicy notes create the perfect combination for the season, and topping the dish with a sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar will give it a comforting, sweet finish. This variation is ideal for fall gatherings or anytime you’re in the mood for a little autumnal flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage:
  • If you have any leftovers, store your French toast sticks in an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. To keep them fresh, let them cool completely before placing them in the container. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, the best way to reheat them is by using an air fryer. This method helps them regain their crispiness, as it mimics the effect of freshly cooked French toast sticks, creating a golden, crispy exterior while keeping the interior soft and tender. Simply pop them into the air fryer for 3-5 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they don’t overcook. Alternatively, reheating in a conventional oven is also an option for restoring some crispiness, though the air fryer yields the best results for texture.
• Freezing:
  • For longer-term storage, you can freeze your French toast sticks for up to 2 months. To preserve their shape and texture, start by flash freezing the sticks on a baking sheet. Lay the French toast sticks in a single layer and place the baking sheet in the freezer for 1-2 hours until they are firm and fully frozen. Once they’re frozen, transfer the sticks into a freezer-safe zip-lock bag or airtight container, ensuring that you remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag with the date so you can keep track of their storage. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat directly from frozen. Use the air fryer or oven for a quick and easy breakfast or snack—just be sure to heat them through for about 8-10 minutes, or until they are crispy and hot in the center. This technique preserves the flavor and texture, giving you an easy-to-make treat whenever you crave it.

Special Equipment

• Air Fryer:
  The air fryer is a game-changer when it comes to reheating or cooking crispy foods, like French toast sticks. It uses hot air circulation to produce a crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft and tender, making it ideal for reheating leftovers or even making fresh batches. The air fryer cooks food quickly and evenly, eliminating the need for excess oil, which helps create a healthier, lighter version of traditional frying. Whether you’re cooking from scratch or reheating leftovers, an air fryer ensures your French toast sticks come out with that irresistible crunch on the outside while maintaining that warm, fluffy texture on the inside. It’s also great for other tasks, such as making crispy vegetables, chicken tenders, or even baked goods with minimal effort.
• Shallow Bowl:
  A shallow bowl is essential for dipping the French toast sticks into the egg mixture. Its wide surface area allows for easy dipping and ensures each stick gets evenly coated with the egg wash without any mess. A shallow bowl is also convenient when you need to whisk the eggs and other ingredients together. Whether you’re working with custards or liquid batters, a shallow bowl gives you more control and is ideal for keeping your dipping task neat and efficient. Choose one that’s wide enough to fit your French toast sticks, providing enough space to dunk and coat without splashing.
• Tongs:
  Tongs are a must-have tool for handling the French toast sticks with ease. They allow you to pick up and flip the sticks during cooking without getting your hands messy or disturbing the bread’s coating. With the long handles, you can easily place the sticks in the hot oil, pan, or air fryer basket without burning yourself or overcrowding the cooking surface. Tongs offer a secure grip, ensuring the French toast sticks stay intact while you cook them to golden perfection. They’re also helpful when flipping the sticks to ensure even browning on all sides. Whether you’re sautéing, flipping, or plating, tongs provide the precision and control necessary to keep your dish neat and perfectly cooked.

FAQ Section

Q: Can I use regular white bread?
A: Yes, but thicker bread will give better results as it holds up better during cooking.

Q: Do I need to preheat the air fryer?
A: Preheating helps the French toast sticks cook evenly and achieve a crisp exterior.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the sticks in advance, refrigerate them, and reheat in the air fryer when needed.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are a delightful combination of crispy, cinnamon-sweetened crust with a soft, buttery center. They’re a fun and easy breakfast or snack option that the whole family will enjoy. The air fryer gives these French toast sticks the perfect crispy exterior without the need for excessive oil, making them a healthier option for indulging in a favorite treat.

Simple to make, these French toast sticks can also be customized with different types of bread, sweeteners, or spices to suit your taste. Serve them with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a dusting of powdered sugar for an added touch. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself, these French toast sticks are sure to satisfy!

Whip them up for your next breakfast, and feel free to share your photo on Instagram—don’t forget to tag me, and I’ll celebrate your breakfast creation with you! Happy cooking!