French Toast Sticks Recipe

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

Eggs: These provide the base for the coating mixture, giving the bread a rich and custardy texture.

Milk: Helps to thin out the egg mixture, making it easier to coat the bread evenly.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet and aromatic flavor to the French toast sticks.

Ground cinnamon: Brings a warm and spicy note that complements the sweetness of the dish.

Butter: Used for cooking the French toast sticks, giving them a rich and golden-brown crust.

To achieve perfectly crispy French toast sticks, make sure to use day-old bread or slightly stale bread. This helps the bread absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Additionally, when cooking, ensure the skillet is preheated and the butter is fully melted before adding the bread sticks. This will help in achieving an even, golden-brown crust.

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

• bread - Substitute with challah: Challah is also a rich, eggy bread that absorbs the egg mixture well and provides a similar texture.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water for each egg. This is a good vegan alternative that helps bind the ingredients.

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

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

• 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 pleasant nutty flavor.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds sweetness and a distinct flavor that complements French toast.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon along with nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, adding a warm, spicy flavor.

• ground cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg provides a similar warm, spicy note, though it's a bit stronger, so use less.

• butter - Substitute with coconut oil: Coconut oil is a dairy-free alternative that adds a slight coconut flavor and works well for cooking.

• butter - Substitute with margarine: Margarine is a non-dairy alternative that provides a similar texture and cooking properties.

• Allow the French toast sticks to cool completely on a wire rack. This prevents them from becoming soggy when stored.

• Place the cooled French toast sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. This step ensures they freeze individually and don't stick together.

• Transfer the baking sheet to the freezer and let the French toast sticks freeze for about 1-2 hours, or until they are solid.

• Once frozen, remove the French toast sticks from the baking sheet and place them in a resealable plastic freezer bag or an airtight container. Label the bag or container with the date to keep track of freshness.

• To reheat, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the frozen French toast sticks on a baking sheet and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until they are heated through and crispy. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a toaster oven or air fryer for a quicker option.

• If you prefer using a microwave, place the French toast sticks on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes, checking halfway through to ensure they are evenly heated.

• For added flavor, sprinkle a bit of ground cinnamon or powdered sugar on the French toast sticks before serving. You can also serve them with a side of maple syrup or your favorite fruit compote for a delightful breakfast treat.

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the 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.

• For a quicker method, use a toaster oven. Set it to medium heat and place the French toast sticks inside. Toast for 3-5 minutes or until they are warm and slightly crispy.

• If you prefer using a microwave, 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 through to ensure they are heated evenly.

• For a stovetop 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.

• If you have an air fryer, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the French toast sticks in a single layer in the basket. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until they are heated and crispy.

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

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

• Whisk: To mix the egg mixture thoroughly.

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

• 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 ground cinnamon.

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

Prepare ingredients ahead: Measure and mix the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon the night before to save time in the morning.

Use thick bread: Opt for thick slices of bread as they absorb the egg mixture better and cook more evenly.

Preheat skillet: Start heating your skillet while you prepare the bread sticks to save cooking time.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple bread sticks at once if your skillet is large enough to speed up the process.

Serve with ready toppings: Have your syrup or favorite toppings ready to go for quick serving.