Are you ready for a breakfast treat that’s fun and easy to make? Look no further than my Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks! This quick recipe transforms simple bread into crispy, sweet sticks you’ll love dipping in syrup. With just a few basic ingredients and steps, you can whip up a delicious dish that pleases both kids and adults. Let’s dive into this yummy recipe!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Sweet: The combination of cinnamon and sugar brings a comforting sweetness that makes these French toast sticks irresistible.
- Perfect for Dipping: Serving with maple syrup allows you to customize each bite, making it a fun and interactive breakfast experience.
- Kid-Friendly: These French toast sticks are easy to eat and perfect for little hands, making breakfast enjoyable for kids and adults alike.
- Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a delightful brunch with friends.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks, you need:
– 6 slices of thick bread (like challah or brioche)
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg (optional)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Butter or oil for cooking
These ingredients create a rich base for your French toast sticks. Thick bread gives you a soft center, while eggs and milk make it creamy. Vanilla adds sweetness, and cinnamon brings warmth.
Optional Ingredients
You can add a dash of nutmeg to your mix for extra flavor. Nutmeg gives a warm, spicy note that pairs well with cinnamon. You might also want powdered sugar for dusting. It adds a nice touch of sweetness.
Recommended Serving Additions
Serve your French toast sticks warm. Maple syrup is a classic choice for dipping. It adds a sweet, rich flavor that complements the cinnamon. You can also add fresh fruit like strawberries or bananas. They add freshness and a burst of color to your plate. Enjoy experimenting with these options to make your meal special!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of the Egg Mixture
Start by gathering your ingredients. In a large bowl, add 3 large eggs. Then, pour in 1 cup of milk. Next, add 2 tablespoons of vanilla extract for flavor. Follow that with 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon and 1 tablespoon of granulated sugar. If you like, sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Whisk everything together until smooth and well blended. This mixture is the key to a tasty French toast stick.
Preparing the Bread
Now it’s time to cut the bread. Take 6 slices of thick bread, like challah or brioche. Slice each piece into thick strips, about 1-inch wide. Cutting them this way makes for the perfect grab-and-dip size. You want these sticks to soak up all that egg mixture without falling apart.
Cooking Process
For cooking, preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle on medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to coat the surface. Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture. Make sure each stick is well-coated but not too soggy. Let any excess mixture drip off. Place the coated sticks onto the hot skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side. You want them golden brown and crisp. Depending on your skillet size, you might need to cook in batches.
While they cook, mix together any leftover granulated sugar and cinnamon in a shallow dish. Once the sticks are done, toss them in this mixture right away. This gives them a sweet and spicy coating. Enjoy your warm French toast sticks!
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To prevent soggy bread, use thick slices. I recommend challah or brioche. These types soak up the egg mixture without getting mushy. Dip each stick quickly. Let the excess mixture drip off before cooking. This step keeps them firm and crispy.
Flavor Enhancements
You can experiment with spices to boost flavor. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg for warmth. Mix in a dash of vanilla extract for a sweet note. You can also add a hint of cardamom or even a splash of almond extract. Each spice adds a unique twist.
Cooking on Different Equipment
You can use a skillet or a griddle for cooking. Skillets work well on the stovetop, giving great heat control. A griddle allows you to cook more sticks at once. Just make sure to adjust the heat. Keep it medium, so they cook evenly without burning.
Pro Tips
- Use Day-Old Bread: Stale bread absorbs the egg mixture better, resulting in a firmer texture and less sogginess.
- Experiment with Flavors: Add a pinch of vanilla bean paste or almond extract to the egg mixture for a unique flavor twist.
- Temperature Control: Keep the heat medium to avoid burning the outside while ensuring the inside cooks through.
- Presentation Matters: Serve the sticks in a fun way, like standing them in a cup with syrup for easy dipping and a great visual appeal.
Variations
Different Types of Bread
You can switch up the bread for your French toast sticks. If you want gluten-free options, use gluten-free bread. Look for a thick style, like gluten-free challah or brioche. This makes the sticks soft inside and crispy outside, just like the classic version.
Flavor Infusions
Want to add a twist to your French toast? Try adding citrus zest. Use lemon or orange zest to give your batter a fresh flavor. Just a little goes a long way. It brightens up the taste and pairs well with cinnamon.
Sweet Alternate Coatings
If you love chocolate, try a chocolate coating. Melt some chocolate chips and dip the cooked sticks into it. For a caramel twist, drizzle warm caramel sauce over them. Both options make a fun treat that kids and adults will love.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your cinnamon sugar French toast sticks fresh, store them in the fridge. Place them in an airtight container. This helps prevent them from drying out. They will stay good for up to three days.
Reheating Methods
You can reheat these sticks in two ways: the oven or the microwave.
– Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sticks on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10 minutes until warm and crispy.
– Microwave: Place the sticks on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for about 30 seconds. Check to see if they are warm enough.
The oven keeps them crisp, while the microwave is faster.
Freezing Tips
Freezing cinnamon sugar French toast sticks is a great way to extend their shelf life. First, let the sticks cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze them for about one hour. Once they are firm, transfer them to a freezer bag or airtight container. Label it with the date. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, reheat them directly from frozen using the oven method.
FAQs
Can I make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks in advance?
Yes, you can make these sticks ahead of time. Prepare the egg mixture and cut the bread into sticks. Store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you are ready to cook, just dip the bread in the egg mix and cook as usual. This way, you save time in the morning. For the best taste, I recommend cooking them fresh when you can.
What can I substitute for eggs?
If you want a vegan option, try using flax eggs. To make one flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for a few minutes to thicken. You can also use applesauce. Use 1/4 cup of applesauce to replace one egg. These substitutes work well and keep the sticks tasty.
How do I know when the French toast sticks are done?
Look for a golden brown color on both sides. They should feel firm and not soggy. You can also poke one with a fork. If it feels soft but not wet, it’s ready. The key is to cook them long enough to get crisp edges while keeping the inside soft. Enjoy the perfect texture!
This blog post covered making perfect French toast sticks from start to finish. We explored essential ingredients, preparation steps, and helpful tips. You learned variations for flavor and texture, along with storage methods.
In closing, mastering this dish opens the door to delicious breakfast fun. Try different breads and spices to make it your own. Enjoy crispy, sweet treats that can delight everyon
