Crispy Air Fryer French Toast

This hearty air fryer French toast sticks recipe transforms ordinary breakfast into a delightful treat that both kids and adults will love. The air fryer gives these sticks the perfect texture crispy outside with that custard-like center you crave from traditional French toast but with less mess and fuss.

I discovered this recipe during a weekend when my nephew was visiting and wanted something special for breakfast. Now it's my go-to whenever I need a quick but impressive breakfast option for guests or just want to treat myself on a lazy Sunday.

Ingredients

• Thick brioche or Texas toast slices: provide the perfect base sturdy enough to hold up to dipping but soft enough to absorb the custard mixture
• Large eggs: create that rich custard texture we all love in French toast
• Whole milk: adds creaminess to the custard mixture full fat works best here
• Granulated sugar: provides just the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming
• Vanilla extract: brings warmth and that classic French toast flavor
• Ground cinnamon: adds that signature spice that makes your kitchen smell amazing
• Salt: balances all the flavors it's small but mighty in this recipe
• Melted butter: for brushing gives that beautiful golden finish and rich taste
• Cinnamon sugar coating: optional but highly recommended for that bakery style finish
• Maple syrup: for serving because what's French toast without it

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prep The Bread:

Cut each slice of thick bread into 4 equal sticks lengthwise. If your bread is fresh rather than day old leave it out for an hour to dry slightly which helps it absorb the custard without becoming soggy.

Make The Custard Mixture:

Combine eggs milk sugar vanilla cinnamon and salt in a shallow bowl. Whisk until completely blended making sure the cinnamon is fully incorporated as it tends to float on top. The mixture should be a pale yellow color and slightly frothy.

Dip The Bread:

Quickly dip each bread stick into the custard mixture ensuring all sides are coated but not soaked. About 2 seconds per side is perfect too long and the bread becomes too wet and won't crisp properly in the air fryer.

Preheat And Prep:

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. This step is crucial for that immediate sear when the bread goes in. While preheating lightly grease the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

First Batch Cooking:

Arrange the dipped sticks in a single layer in your air fryer basket making sure they aren't touching. Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation which is essential for even cooking. Cook for 4 minutes until the bottom side begins to turn golden.

Flip And Finish:

Using tongs gently flip each stick and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until all sides are golden brown and the center is cooked through but still tender. The outside should have a slight crispness when touched.

The Sweet Finish:

While still hot brush each stick lightly with melted butter which will give them a beautiful shine and rich flavor. For an extra treat roll them in cinnamon sugar while the butter is still warm so it adheres properly.

Serve Immediately:

Arrange on a serving plate with a small bowl of warm maple syrup for dipping. The contrast of the warm crisp sticks with the cool sweet syrup is absolutely delightful.

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The real secret to these French toast sticks is using slightly stale bread. I discovered this by accident when I only had day old brioche left and needed to make breakfast. The slightly dried bread absorbs the custard mixture perfectly without becoming soggy making these sticks the perfect texture.

Make Ahead Options

These French toast sticks are perfect for meal prep. After cooking let them cool completely then place in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. They'll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to eat simply pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes until heated through and crisp again.

For longer storage freeze the cooled sticks on a baking sheet then transfer to a freezer bag once solid. They'll keep for up to 2 months. The best part is you can cook them straight from frozen! Just add about 2 minutes to the reheating time. This has saved countless busy mornings in my household.

Flavor Variations

While the classic cinnamon vanilla flavor is always a hit don't be afraid to experiment with different flavor profiles. Try adding a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture for a warming spiced version. Orange or lemon zest adds a bright citrusy note that pairs beautifully with the maple syrup.

For special occasions create a dessert version by adding a tablespoon of cocoa powder to the custard and serving with chocolate sauce instead of maple syrup. I made these for my daughter's birthday breakfast and they were an instant hit even with the adults at the party.

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Serving Suggestions

These French toast sticks are versatile enough to be served in multiple ways. For a complete breakfast platter serve them alongside fresh berries yogurt and a sprinkle of powdered sugar. The combination of tart berries sweet toast and creamy yogurt creates a balanced meal.

Create a breakfast board with these sticks as the centerpiece surrounded by different dipping options like maple syrup berry compote chocolate sauce and whipped cream. This interactive breakfast experience is perfect for weekend brunches or holiday mornings when everyone can customize their plate.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of bread works best for this dish?

Thick-cut brioche or Texas toast work best as they hold up well to the custard mixture without falling apart. Day-old bread is ideal since slightly stale bread absorbs the custard without becoming soggy. Challah and sourdough make excellent alternatives.

→ Can I make these French toast sticks dairy-free?

Yes, you can easily make dairy-free French toast sticks by substituting the whole milk with any plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy work well) and using plant-based butter for brushing.

→ How do I prevent the sticks from sticking to the air fryer?

To prevent sticking, either lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with a small amount of oil before adding the French toast sticks. Also, avoid overcrowding the basket to ensure proper air circulation.

→ Can I freeze these French toast sticks?

Yes, these French toast sticks freeze exceptionally well. After cooking, allow them to cool completely, then freeze in a single layer before transferring to a freezer bag. Reheat from frozen in the air fryer for about 5 minutes at 375°F (190°C).

→ How do I know when the French toast sticks are done?

The French toast sticks are done when they're golden brown on the outside and have a firm but slightly springy texture when touched. The inside should be cooked through but still moist. If you're unsure, you can break one open to check that the custard is set with no raw egg mixture visible.

→ What can I serve with these French toast sticks?

While maple syrup is the classic dipping option, you can also serve these with fresh fruit, yogurt, chocolate sauce, fruit compote, whipped cream, or nut butter. For a complete breakfast, pair with bacon, sausage, or a side of scrambled eggs.