Cinnamon French Toast Sticks

French toast you can eat with your fingers — warm, golden, and coated in cinnamon sugar like a doughnut. These cinnamon French toast sticks are a fun breakfast or brunch treat that both kids and adults will love. Crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and perfect for dipping in maple syrup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to make in just 15 minutes.
• Great way to use up stale bread.
• Perfect for hands-on eating and dipping.
• Tastes like a cinnamon sugar doughnut.
• Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 thick slices white bread, preferably stale
• 2 eggs
• ¼ cup milk
• Pinch of salt
• ⅓ cup white sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons butter, divided
• Maple syrup, for serving (optional)

Directions

1. Prep the Bread: Trim the crusts off the bread slices and cut each slice into 3 thick batons.
2. Make the Egg Mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt.
3. Mix Cinnamon Sugar: On a separate plate, combine the sugar and cinnamon.
4. Cook the First Batch: Heat 2 tablespoons butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Quickly dip each bread stick in the egg mixture (don’t soak), shake off excess, and place in the skillet. Cook in 2 batches, turning to brown all sides until golden.
5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar: Immediately transfer the hot French toast sticks to the cinnamon sugar mixture and roll to coat.
6. Cook the Second Batch: Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter and repeat with the rest of the sticks.
7. Serve: Serve warm with maple syrup on the side for dipping.

Servings and timing

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Servings: 2–3 servings

Variations

• Vanilla Touch: Add a splash of vanilla extract to the egg mixture.
• Spiced Up: Add nutmeg or pumpkin spice to the cinnamon sugar.
• Whole Wheat: Use whole wheat or brioche for a twist.
• Baked Version: Bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Stuffed Version: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two bread slices before slicing and cooking.

storage/reheating

Storage: Store leftover French toast sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Flash freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F or in a toaster oven for best texture. Avoid microwaving to maintain crispiness.

FAQs

Can I use fresh bread?

Stale bread works best to avoid sogginess, but fresh can be used if quickly dipped.

What kind of bread is best?

White sandwich bread, Texas toast, or brioche work well.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, they can be prepped and stored in the fridge or freezer.

How do I keep them crispy?

Cook over medium-high heat and avoid overcrowding the pan. Reheat in the oven.

Are these freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze in a single layer then transfer to a bag. Reheat from frozen.

Can I bake instead of fry?

Yes, bake at 375°F for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

What can I use instead of sugar?

Coconut sugar or monk fruit sweetener can be used as substitutes.

Can I use almond milk?

Yes, any milk or milk alternative works.

What dips go well besides syrup?

Try Nutella, whipped cream, or fruit compote.

Can I double the recipe?

Absolutely, just cook in batches to keep them crisp.

Conclusion

Cinnamon French toast sticks are the ultimate quick and cozy breakfast treat. With their warm cinnamon sugar coating and golden crust, they bring the joy of doughnuts and French toast together in one fun-to-eat dish. Perfect for dipping, sharing, and starting the day with a smile.

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