Can I use regular sandwich bread?

Yes, but thicker bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast gives you a fluffier, more satisfying texture. Regular bread works in a pinch just be gentle when dipping.

How do I keep French toast sticks crispy?

Don't over-soak the bread and cook them over medium heat with enough butter. For reheating, use an oven or air fryer instead of the microwave to maintain crispiness.

Can I bake French toast sticks instead of pan-frying?

Absolutely! Arrange dipped sticks on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

What's the best bread for French toast sticks?

Brioche and challah are top choices because they're slightly sweet and have a soft, sturdy texture. Texas toast is also excellent if you want extra thickness.

Can I make these ahead for a crowd?

Yes! Keep cooked sticks warm in a 200°F oven on a wire rack until ready to serve. This prevents them from getting soggy.

Easy Homemade French Toast Sticks: Ready in 25 Minutes

Name: French Toast Sticks Recipe: Easy, Crispy & Kid-Friendly
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8 slices thick-cut bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best); 3 large eggs; ½ cup whole milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons granulated sugar; Pinch of salt; 2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking); Maple syrup; Powdered sugar (optional); Fresh berries (optional)

Ingredients

Scale

For the French Toast Sticks:

8 slices thick-cut bread (brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best)
3 large eggs
½ cup whole milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Pinch of salt
2-3 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)

For Serving:

Maple syrup
Powdered sugar (optional)
Fresh berries (optional)

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Instructions

Cut each slice of bread into 3-4 even sticks and set aside.
In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until smooth and well combined.
Heat a large non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of butter, letting it melt and coat the pan.
Dip each bread stick into the custard mixture for 2-3 seconds per side, ensuring it’s coated but not soggy.
Place coated sticks in the hot skillet without overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Transfer cooked sticks to a plate and repeat with remaining bread, adding more butter to the pan as needed.
Serve warm with maple syrup for dipping, and top with powdered sugar or fresh berries if desired.

Notes

Bread Selection: Thick-cut bread works best for this recipe. Brioche and challah give the fluffiest, most flavorful results, while Texas toast provides excellent thickness. Regular sandwich bread can work but may be more delicate when dipping.

Don’t Over-Soak: The key to crispy French toast sticks is a quick dip 2 to 3 seconds per side is enough. Over-soaking makes the bread soggy and difficult to handle.

Temperature Control: Medium heat is ideal. Too high and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too low and they won’t get that golden crispy exterior.

Freezer Instructions: Let cooked French toast sticks cool completely, then freeze in a single layer on a baking sheet for 1-2 hours. Transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or in an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes.

Baking Option: For a hands-off approach, arrange dipped sticks on a greased baking sheet and bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Make It Dairy-Free: Substitute milk with almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk, and use coconut oil or dairy-free butter for cooking.

Author: Roz Fariss
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Pan-Frying
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegetarian