There’s something undeniably delightful about French toast sticks. They capture all the comforting flavors of traditional French toast but come in a fun, dippable format that makes them perfect for breakfast or brunch. Whether you’re serving them to your family on a lazy Sunday morning or whipping them up for a gathering with friends, this French Toast Sticks Recipe is bound to impress. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this delectable treat!

Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation

French toast sticks are not just a nostalgic trip down memory lane; they’re a versatile treat that suits any occasion. They can be sweet or savory, depending on your mood, making them perfect for everyone—from kids to adults. This recipe uses rich brioche or French bread, creating a custardy interior that’s perfectly complemented by the crispy coating of Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal. Plus, they are easy to make and even easier to enjoy!

What You’ll Gather

8 slices brioche bread or French bread (day old/stale is best, see note 1)
4 large eggs
2/3 cup whole milk
2 tablespoons light brown sugar (lightly packed)
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1/4 teaspoon salt
6 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
Serving suggestions (see note 2)
Sprinkle of powdered sugar (optional)

Equipment at a Glance

Mixing bowls: For combining your egg mixture.
Whisk: Essential for beating the eggs and mixing ingredients.
Shallow dish: Ideal for coating the bread in the egg mixture.
Frying pan or griddle: For cooking the French toast sticks to golden perfection.
Spatula: To flip the sticks without breaking them.

The Method for French Toast Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. If you’re using day-old brioche or French bread, slice it into sticks. Each slice should be about 1 inch wide, creating a nice finger-friendly shape.

Step 2: Make the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined. This mixture will provide the rich custard flavor that makes French toast sticks so irresistible.

Step 3: Crush the Cereal

Place the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal in a zip-top bag and crush it with a rolling pin until it resembles coarse crumbs. This will create a crunchy coating for your French toast sticks.

Step 4: Dip the Bread

Take each slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure to coat it evenly on all sides. Allow any excess mixture to drip off before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Coat with Cereal

After dipping in the egg mixture, roll each bread stick in the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch until fully coated. This step is what gives your French toast sticks that delightful crunch!

Step 6: Cook the Sticks

In a large frying pan or on a griddle, melt 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter over medium heat. Once the butter is melted and bubbling, add a few French toast sticks to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy. Repeat with remaining butter and bread sticks.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Once cooked, remove the French toast sticks from the pan and place them on a serving platter. If desired, sprinkle with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauces like maple syrup, chocolate sauce, or fresh fruit!

Variations for Dietary Needs

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and gluten-free cereal for a delicious alternative.
Dairy-Free: Substitute whole milk with almond milk or oat milk, and use a dairy-free butter alternative.
Nut-Free: Ensure your milk substitute is nut-free and opt for a cereal that doesn’t contain nuts.
Vegan: Replace eggs with flaxseed meal mixed with water and use a plant-based milk and butter.

What I Learned Testing

Using day-old bread makes all the difference; it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy.
Crushing the cereal coarsely ensures a crunchy coating that adds texture and flavor.
Cooking the sticks in batches prevents overcrowding, which allows for even cooking and perfect crispiness.
Allowing the sticks to cool slightly before serving helps them maintain their shape and makes them easier to dip.

Cooling, Storing & Rewarming

Cooling: Allow the French toast sticks to cool on a wire rack for a few minutes before serving. This helps maintain their crispiness.
Storing: Leftover sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Rewarming: Reheat in a toaster oven or regular oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through and crispy again. You can also microwave them for quick reheating, but they might lose some of their crunch.

Your Top Questions

Can I use different types of bread?

Absolutely! While brioche and French bread work wonderfully, you can experiment with challah, whole grain, or even gluten-free bread for different flavors and textures.

How can I make these French toast sticks ahead of time?

To prepare ahead, you can assemble the sticks and store them in the refrigerator before cooking. Alternatively, cook and cool the sticks, then store them in an airtight container in the fridge, reheating them before serving.

What can I serve with French toast sticks?

These sticks pair perfectly with maple syrup, chocolate sauce, fresh fruit, or even yogurt for dipping. Get creative with your favorite toppings!

Can I freeze French toast sticks?

Yes! Once cooked and cooled, you can freeze the French toast sticks. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer them to a freezer bag. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven or toaster oven.

Ready to Cook?

Gather your ingredients and equipment, and get ready to indulge in a delightful breakfast experience. This French Toast Sticks Recipe is not only simple but also incredibly satisfying. With the sweet crunch of Cinnamon Toast Crunch and the soft, custardy bread inside, you’re in for a treat. Enjoy every bite, and don’t forget to share your creations with friends and family!