I once stumbled upon a breakfast that instantly took me back to simpler times—crisp mornings filled with laughter and the sweet smells of cinnamon wafting through the air. These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks evoke just that feeling, combining the warm, nostalgic flavors we adore with the ease of modern cooking. With their delightful cinnamon sugar coating and crispy exterior, they make for a quick breakfast that’s not only satisfying but can easily double as a guilt-free dessert. Plus, they’re a breeze to prepare and can be frozen for those hectic mornings when time is of the essence. Ready to whip up a batch that will surely become a family favorite? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why Are These French Toast Sticks Special?
Irresistible Crunch: With a crispy exterior that rivals your favorite churros, these Air Fryer French Toast Sticks will satisfy your cravings for both breakfast and dessert.
Quick to Make: Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe allows you to whip up delicious sticks in just minutes, ensuring you start your day off right.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare a batch ahead of time! These sticks freeze beautifully, making them a go-to for quick snacks or breakfast when you’re short on time.
Versatile Toppings: Whether you prefer classic syrup, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar, they pair wonderfully with various toppings for every palate.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will adore these delightful treats, making them an instant hit at your breakfast table or brunch gatherings. For similar easy recipes, check out my Air Fryer Apple Taquitos and Cinnamon Roll French Toast options!
Air Fryer French Toast Ingredients
For the French Toast Sticks
• Brioche or Texas Toast – The base of our Air Fryer French Toast; thick slices ensure a soft and chewy interior.
• Eggs – Large eggs bind the ingredients together and give the sticks their signature custardy texture.
• Milk – Adds moisture; feel free to use dairy or any non-dairy milk you prefer for added richness.
• Vanilla Extract – While optional, this enhances flavor, making the sticks irresistibly sweet and aromatic.
For the Cinnamon Sugar Coating
• Sugar – This sweetens the cinnamon mixture; brown sugar can provide a richer taste.
• Cinnamon – The star of our coating; adjust the amount to suit your taste for warmth and spice!
With these simple ingredients, you’re just moments away from deliciously crispy Air Fryer French Toast Sticks that everyone will crave!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks
Step 1: Cut the Bread
Begin by taking your brioche or Texas Toast and slicing each piece into thirds, creating stick shapes ideal for dipping. Aim for a thickness of about 1 inch to ensure they cook evenly in the air fryer while maintaining a fluffy interior.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together large eggs, your choice of milk, and a splash of vanilla extract until fully combined. Ensure the mixture is smooth and well-blended, which provides the custardy base for your Air Fryer French Toast sticks, enhancing their flavor and texture.
Step 3: Prepare the Cinnamon Sugar
On a plate, mix together granulated sugar and ground cinnamon until evenly distributed. This fragrant blend will coat your French toast sticks to add sweetness and that signature cinnamon flavor. Set this plate aside for easy access during assembly.
Step 4: Dip the Bread Sticks
Take each bread stick and give it a quick dip into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are coated but not soaked, to prevent sogginess. Immediately after, roll each stick in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully covered, creating a sweet, crunchy layer on the outside.
Step 5: Air Fry the Sticks
Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Once ready, place the coated French toast sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, allowing space between each. This step is crucial for achieving an even, crispy texture.
Step 6: Cook to Perfection
Air fry the cinnamon sugar French toast sticks for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Keep an eye on them in the last couple of minutes to ensure they don’t over-brown.
Step 7: Ready to Serve
Once cooked, remove the sticks from the air fryer and let them cool slightly. Serve warm, optionally drizzling with syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or your favorite fresh toppings for an extra delightful touch.
Air Fryer French Toast Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine with these delicious twists on the original recipe!
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Pumpkin Spice: Add pumpkin spice to the cinnamon sugar for a warm, fall-inspired version. The cozy flavor will make your taste buds dance!
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Whole Wheat: Swap out brioche for whole wheat bread to add a nutty flavor and a healthier profile. It’ll give a delightful chewiness, enhancing the overall experience.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread to cater to those with dietary restrictions. The cinnamon sugar coating will still deliver that sweet, crispy crunch everyone loves.
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Stuffed Sticks: Spread a layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two sticks of bread before dipping; this way, you’ll have a gooey surprise in every bite!
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Coconut Flakes: Mix unsweetened shredded coconut into the cinnamon sugar for added texture and a tropical twist. This gives your sticks an exotic flair that’s absolutely delightful.
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Chocolate Drizzle: Top your cooked sticks with a drizzle of melted chocolate to satisfy any chocolate craving. It’s a sweet indulgence that’ll please everyone!
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Savory Option: Omit the sugar and cinnamon; instead, season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper for a savory twist that pairs perfectly with eggs.
For more delightful recipes, don’t forget to check out my Fluffy Air Fryer Pretzel Bites and enjoy a crispy masterpiece that’s always a family hit!
What to Serve with Crispy Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks
There’s nothing quite like enjoying the sweet, warm aroma of breakfast wafting through the kitchen as you prepare a delightful meal.
- Maple Syrup: A classic pairing, drizzling rich, golden syrup over the sticks enhances their sweetness and adds a delightful stickiness.
- Fresh Berries: Bright strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries offer a refreshing contrast, adding a burst of flavor that balances the cinnamon sugar.
- Whipped Cream: Light and airy, this fluffy topping adds indulgence, transforming your French toast sticks into a delightful dessert experience.
- Yogurt Parfait: A side of Greek yogurt layered with fruits and granola creates a beautifully textured breakfast, offering protein and a satisfying crunch.
- Chocolate Sauce: For a decadent twist, serve with warm chocolate sauce for dipping—perfect for those with a sweet tooth!
- Coconut Flakes: Toasted coconut flakes add a tropical flair and delightful chewiness to your breakfast, making this dish even more enticing.
- Chai Tea: Complement your meal with a warm cup of spiced chai, echoing the flavors of cinnamon and adding a cozy touch.
- Fresh Mint: A sprinkle of fresh mint elevates the dish, bringing a burst of color and a refreshing herbal note to your plate.
- Banana Slices: Slices of sweet banana add natural sweetness and creaminess, pairing beautifully with both the cinnamon and the brioche.
- Ice Cream: For an extraordinary twist, serve the French toast sticks with a scoop of vanilla or cinnamon ice cream for a brunch-time treat!
Expert Tips for Air Fryer French Toast
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Use Thick Bread: Choose brioche or Texas toast for the best texture; thinner bread may become too crispy and lose its fluffiness.
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Quick Dips Only: Avoid soaking the bread in the egg mixture; a brief dip keeps the sticks from becoming soggy, ensuring a delightful contrast of crunchy and soft.
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Space Them Out: Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket. Proper spacing allows hot air to circulate, yielding perfectly crispy Air Fryer French Toast sticks every time.
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Check for Even Golden Brown: Flip the sticks halfway through the cooking process to ensure even browning and prevent burns.
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Customize Your Spice: Feel free to adjust the cinnamon level in the sugar mixture; add nutmeg or pumpkin spice for a seasonal twist to your Air Fryer French Toast!
How to Store and Freeze Air Fryer French Toast
Fridge: Store leftover French toast sticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. Heat them in the microwave for a quick breakfast.
Freezer: Allow the sticks to cool completely, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 2 months.
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat frozen Air Fryer French Toast sticks in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-6 minutes until crispy again.
Make-Ahead: These Air Fryer French Toast sticks are perfect to prepare ahead of time, making busy mornings a breeze with ready-to-heat options on hand.
Make Ahead Options
These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the bread sticks by cutting them and dipping them into the egg and cinnamon sugar mixtures up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy this delightful breakfast, just pop them in the air fryer at 350°F for about 6-8 minutes until crispy. This way, you’ll have restaurant-quality Air Fryer French Toast ready in no time, perfect for those busy mornings when every second counts!
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks Recipe FAQs
What type of bread is best for Air Fryer French Toast?
For the best texture, I recommend using thick slices of brioche or Texas toast. These types provide a soft and chewy interior while achieving that delightful crispy exterior. Thinner breads may not hold up as well and can become overly crunchy.
How should I store leftover Air Fryer French Toast sticks?
Store your leftover French toast sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply heat them in the microwave for a quick breakfast option. You want to preserve that deliciousness!
Can I freeze Air Fryer French Toast sticks?
Absolutely! After cooking, let the French toast sticks cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can be stored for up to 2 months. For the best reheating results, pop them back in the air fryer at 350°F for about 5-6 minutes to regain their crispy goodness.
What should I do if the French toast sticks are soggy?
If your French toast sticks come out soggy, it’s likely due to soaking the bread too long in the egg mixture. Instead, give each piece a quick dip to coat without oversaturating. Air frying in a single layer also helps achieve that perfect crunch!
Are these Air Fryer French Toast sticks suitable for kids?
Yes, these French toast sticks are family-friendly! They’re a hit with both kids and adults, making breakfast or brunch gatherings all the more enjoyable. Just be mindful of any specific dietary restrictions your little ones may have, especially when it comes to allergies.
Can I customize the cinnamon sugar coating?
Very much so! Feel free to adjust the cinnamon amount in the sugar mix according to your taste. You can also add a pinch of nutmeg or substitute with pumpkin spice for a delightful seasonal spin. Enjoy experimenting until you find your perfect flavor!
Deliciously Crunchy Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Tonight!
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the bread into thirds to create stick shapes ideal for dipping.
- Whisk together the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract until fully combined.
- Mix together sugar and cinnamon on a plate until evenly distributed.
- Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture and then roll in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Preheat air fryer to 350°F. Place coated sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Let cool slightly before serving warm with toppings of your choice.
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