French Toast Sticks Recipe

Bread: Thick slices work best for this recipe, as they hold up well when dipped in the egg mixture and cooked. Eggs: These provide the base for the custard mixture that coats the bread. Milk: Adds creaminess to the egg mixture, helping to create a rich custard. Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the custard mixture. Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness of the dish. Butter: Used for cooking the French toast sticks, giving them a golden brown, 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 absorb the flavors without falling apart.

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

• bread - Substitute with challah: Challah has a soft texture and slight sweetness, which works well for soaking up the egg mixture.

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

• eggs - Substitute with banana: Mashed banana can add moisture and a slight sweetness, making it a good egg substitute.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in the recipe.

• 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 flavor profile.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup can add a natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

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

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This 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 works well for cooking.

• Allow the French toast sticks to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation, which can make them soggy.
• Place the cooled French toast sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet. Ensure they are not touching each other to avoid sticking.
• Flash freeze the French toast sticks by placing the baking sheet in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This helps them maintain their shape and prevents them from sticking together.
• Once frozen, transfer the French toast sticks to a resealable 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 in a single layer and bake for 8-10 minutes, or until heated through and crispy.
• Alternatively, you can reheat the French toast sticks in a toaster oven or air fryer for a quicker option. Toast or air fry them at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes.
• For a microwave option, place the French toast sticks on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 1-2 minutes. Note that this method may not yield the same crispy texture as oven reheating.
• Serve the reheated French toast sticks with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the French toast sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated through and slightly crispy.

• Toaster Oven Method: Set your toaster oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the French toast sticks 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 them with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking halfway through to avoid overcooking.

• 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 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.

• Skillet Method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the skillet. 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.

• Knife: to cut each slice of bread into three sticks

• Cutting board: to provide a safe surface for cutting the bread

• Mixing bowl: to whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon

• Whisk: to mix the egg mixture thoroughly

• Skillet: to cook the French toast sticks

• Spatula: to flip the bread sticks and ensure they are golden brown on all sides

• Measuring cups: to measure the milk accurately

• Measuring spoons: to measure the vanilla extract and cinnamon accurately

• Butter knife: to spread the butter in the skillet

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

Use a large skillet: Cooking more French toast sticks at once reduces overall cooking time.

Preheat the skillet: Ensure the butter melts quickly and evenly by preheating the skillet before adding the bread sticks.

Cut bread ahead: Slice the bread into sticks the night before and store in an airtight container.

Batch cooking: Make extra French toast sticks and freeze them for quick reheating on busy mornings.