Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe

Bread: Preferably thick slices to ensure the sticks hold up well during cooking.

Eggs: Acts as a binding agent and adds richness to the French toast.

Milk: Helps to create a creamy mixture for soaking the bread.

Vanilla extract: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor to the French toast.

Cinnamon: Provides a warm, spicy note that complements the sweetness.

Sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness to the mixture.

When dipping the bread sticks into the egg mixture, make sure to let them soak for a few seconds to fully absorb the flavors. This will ensure that the French toast sticks are moist and flavorful on the inside while achieving a crispy exterior in the air fryer.

• bread - Substitute with brioche: Brioche is rich and buttery, providing a similar texture and flavor to thick slices of bread.

• bread - Substitute with challah: Challah is slightly sweet and dense, making it an excellent alternative for French toast sticks.

• eggs - Substitute with flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 3 tablespoons of water to replace each egg. This is a good vegan alternative.

• eggs - Substitute with applesauce: Use ¼ cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg. This adds moisture and a slight sweetness.

• milk - Substitute with almond milk: Almond milk is a dairy-free alternative that works well in the recipe.

• milk - Substitute with oat milk: Oat milk has a creamy texture that mimics regular milk, making it a good substitute.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with almond extract: Almond extract provides a different but pleasant flavor profile.

• vanilla extract - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a natural sweetness and a hint of maple flavor.

• cinnamon - Substitute with nutmeg: Nutmeg offers a warm, slightly sweet flavor that complements French toast.

• cinnamon - Substitute with pumpkin pie spice: This blend includes cinnamon along with other spices, adding a complex flavor.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds natural sweetness and a slight floral note.

• sugar - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup provides sweetness and a rich, distinctive flavor.

• Allow the French toast sticks to cool completely before storing. This prevents condensation from forming, which can make them soggy.

• Place the cooled French toast sticks in an airtight container or a resealable plastic bag. If stacking them, separate layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking.

• Store the container or bag in the refrigerator if you plan to consume them within 2-3 days. For longer storage, place them in the freezer.

• To freeze, arrange the French toast sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and place in the freezer for about 1-2 hours. This flash-freezing method ensures they don't stick together.

• Once frozen, transfer the French toast sticks to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.

• When ready to enjoy, reheat the refrigerated French toast sticks in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until warmed through. For frozen sticks, increase the time to 5-7 minutes.

• Serve immediately with your favorite toppings like maple syrup, fresh berries, or a dusting of powdered sugar.

• Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover French toast sticks in a single layer in the basket. Heat for 3-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are warmed through and crispy.

• For a quick microwave method, place the French toast sticks on a microwave-safe plate. Cover them with a damp paper towel to keep them from drying out. Microwave on high for 30-60 seconds, checking for desired warmth.

• If you prefer the oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Arrange the French toast sticks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are heated evenly and regain some crispiness.

• To reheat on the stovetop, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan. Place the French toast sticks in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until they are warmed through and slightly crispy.

• Air fryer: This is essential for cooking the French toast sticks to a golden brown and crispy texture.

• Mixing bowl: Used to whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar.

• Whisk: Necessary for thoroughly combining the ingredients in the mixing bowl.

• Knife: Used to cut each slice of bread into 3-4 sticks.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for cutting the bread into sticks.

• Tongs: Helpful for flipping the bread sticks halfway through the cooking process in the air fryer.

• Measuring cups: Used to measure the milk and sugar accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the vanilla extract and cinnamon accurately.

Pre-mix the batter: Prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge. This way, you can quickly dip the bread sticks in the morning.

Use thick bread: Opt for thick slices of bread like brioche or Texas toast. They hold up better and save time by not getting soggy.

Batch cooking: Cook multiple batches of French toast sticks at once and freeze them. Reheat in the air fryer for a quick breakfast.

Organize your workspace: Arrange all ingredients and tools before starting. This reduces prep time and makes the process smoother.