Who says breakfast has to be boring? If you grew up dipping French toast sticks into syrup on Saturday mornings, you know they’re basically the breakfast version of fries—crisp on the outside, soft inside, sweet, cinnamon-y, and impossible to resist. Today, we’re bringing all that nostalgia (with a homemade, healthier twist) to your kitchen with French Toast Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar. Perfect for kids, adults, and anyone who loves dunking their breakfast. Seriously—once you make these at home, you’ll never look at frozen ones the same way again.
Why French Toast Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar are a Game-Changer
Let’s face it: sometimes you just need breakfast to be fun. French toast sticks check every box:
- Crunchy outside, pillowy inside
- Covered in cinnamon sugar
- Perfect for dipping (hello, maple syrup or chocolate sauce!)
- Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
- Loved by picky eaters and adults alike
And the best part? They’re so easy you don’t need any fancy tools—just a frying pan, oven, or air fryer.
The Secret to Great French Toast Sticks
What sets these apart from boring toast?
- Brioche or Texas toast: The thicker the bread, the better the texture
- Egg and milk soak: Makes them creamy, not dry
- Generous cinnamon-sugar coating: For that bakery-style finish
- Golden, crisp cooking: You want that crunch!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 loaf brioche bread or thick Texas toast (about 10 slices)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (for batter)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 3 tablespoons butter (for cooking)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon (for coating)
- Maple syrup or melted chocolate, for dipping
Side note: Using stale bread? Even better! It’ll soak up more custard without getting soggy.
How to Make French Toast Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar
Step 1: Prep the Bread
- Slice each piece of bread into 3–4 thick sticks (like giant croutons).
Step 2: Make the Batter
- In a wide bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, 1/2 tsp cinnamon, and salt.
Step 3: Soak and Coat
- Dip bread sticks in the batter, turning to coat. Don’t leave them too long—just enough to soak up flavor.
Step 4: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
- Combine sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a shallow bowl for coating.
Step 5: Cook Until Golden
- Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Fry sticks on all sides until golden brown (about 2–3 minutes per side).
Option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, turning once, or air fry at 375°F for 8–10 minutes.
Step 6: Dredge in Cinnamon Sugar
- While hot, roll sticks in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
Step 7: Serve
- Stack them high and serve with maple syrup or melted chocolate. Get dunking!
Table: Nutritional Values per Serving
| Ingredient (per stick) | Calories | Carbs (g) | Protein (g) | Fat (g) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brioche Bread (1/3 slice) | 45 | 8 | 1.5 | 1 |
| Egg (1/10 portion) | 7 | 0.1 | 0.6 | 0.5 |
| Milk (dairy, 1/10 cup) | 8 | 1.2 | 0.4 | 0.3 |
| Butter (1/10 tbsp) | 10 | 0 | 0 | 1.1 |
| Cinnamon Sugar (1/10) | 15 | 4 | 0 | 0 |
| Total per stick (avg) | 85 | 13.3 | 2.5 | 2.9 |
Estimated values; actual results may vary with bread and cooking method.
Nutrition Summary
Each French toast stick is a treat—carb-rich for energy, a bit of protein for balance, and way less fat than store-bought fried versions.
Why Kids (and Adults) Go Nuts for These
- Finger food: No fork required!
- Customizable: Add chocolate chips, orange zest, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
- Great for breakfast, brunch, or snacks
- Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and reheat as needed (toast or air fry to crisp back up).
Pro Tips and Tricks
- Stale bread > fresh: It won’t fall apart.
- Keep them warm: Place finished sticks on a baking sheet in a 200°F oven until all are ready.
- Try whole wheat or gluten-free bread for a healthier twist.
- Make them ahead: Cook, cool, freeze on a tray, then bag up for up to a month.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Over-soaking: Bread should be moist but not falling apart.
- Crowded pan: Fry in batches for best browning.
- Skipping the cinnamon sugar: This is not the time to go light—coat generously for real bakery vibes.
When to Serve French Toast Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar
- Weekend brunches
- Sleepover parties
- Holidays (they’re a Christmas morning favorite)
- Lunchbox treats
FAQ: French Toast Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar
Q: Can I bake instead of frying?
A: Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a lined tray for 12–15 minutes, turning halfway.
Q: Can I use plant-based milk or egg substitute?
A: Absolutely—oat, almond, or soy milk all work, as do egg replacers.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Cool, freeze flat, then bag. Reheat in oven or air fryer for best results.
Q: Can I make these dairy-free?
A: Use vegan butter and plant-based milk for totally dairy-free sticks.
Q: What’s the best bread to use?
A: Brioche or Texas toast for max fluffiness; any thick bread works in a pinch.
French Toast Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar: Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a breakfast that’s equal parts fun, nostalgic, and absolutely irresistible, French Toast Sticks with Cinnamon Sugar are the move. Whether you’re making them for a crowd, a cozy morning at home, or freezing for busy weekdays, these sticks never disappoint.
So, what’s your favorite way to dip French toast sticks? Maple syrup, chocolate sauce, or something wild? Let me know in the comments—let’s make breakfast a little sweeter together! 🥞✨