Name: Crispy Air Fryer French Toast Sticks for Quick Mornings
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 18 min
Ingredients: 4 slices Brioche or Texas Toast (Thick-cut bread holds up best.); 2 large Eggs (Bind the mixture and provide richness.); 0.5 cup Milk (Any milk or plant-based alternative can be used.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Enhances flavor.); 0.25 cup Sugar (Adjust amount for taste.); 2 teaspoons Cinnamon (Adds warm flavor; pumpkin spice can be used.)

As the morning sun pours into my kitchen, the tantalizing scent of cinnamon fills the air, instantly transporting me to cozy brunches long past. Today, I’m diving into a delightful twist on a breakfast favorite: Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks. These crispy bites are not only quick to prepare but also offer a fun, kid-friendly alternative to ordinary breakfast. Imagine enjoying the warm, comforting flavors reminiscent of churros or cinnamon donuts, all made in a healthier way! Perfect for busy mornings or as a sweet treat after dinner, these French toast sticks are sure to win over anyone craving a comforting homemade dish. Who’s ready to indulge in this delightful twist on a classic?

Why are Air Fryer French Toast Sticks amazing?

Quick and Easy: These breakfast treats come together in mere minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or surprise brunches.

Crisp Perfection: Air frying achieves a delightful crunch while keeping the inside soft and tender, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

Sweet Nostalgia: The cinnamon and sugar coating evokes the beloved taste of churros, turning your morning routine into a special occasion.

Kid-Approved Fun: Kids love dipping and munching on these sticks, making breakfast a playful and interactive experience.

Versatile Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, or add chocolate chips to the custard for an extra touch of sweetness.

For more delightful breakfast ideas, don’t miss out on my recipe for Cheesy Egg Toast or a sweet treat like French Antilles Coconut.

Ingredients for Air Fryer French Toast

Get ready to whip up these delicious Air Fryer French Toast Sticks with this simple ingredient list!

For the French Toast

Brioche or Texas Toast – This rich, thick-cut bread holds up best and gives a hearty texture.
Eggs – They bind the mixture and lend richness to the custard.
Milk – Adds moisture; feel free to use any milk or plant-based alternatives for your preference.
Vanilla Extract – Enhances the overall flavor with a hint of sweetness.

For the Coating

Sugar – Sweetens the cinnamon mixture; you can adjust the amount according to taste or swap it out for coconut sugar.
Cinnamon – Adds that warm, comforting flavor; for a fun twist, consider using pumpkin spice.

These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are a delightful breakfast treat that everyone will love! Enjoy experimenting with flavors and toppings.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Begin by slicing your brioche or Texas Toast into thick strips, about 1-2 inches wide, for that perfect French toast texture. Lay the pieces flat on a cutting board, ensuring they are well spaced. This rich bread will hold up beautifully and provide a delightful bite in your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks.

Step 2: Mix the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together 2 eggs, ½ cup of milk, and 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract until well combined. Aim for a smooth mixture without any clumps. This custard soak is the secret to keeping your sticks moist and flavorful. Set this aside and prepare for the next step, creating a sweet coating.

Step 3: Create the Cinnamon Sugar
On a plate, mix together ¼ cup of sugar and 2 teaspoons of cinnamon until they are evenly blended. This mixture will coat your French toast sticks, adding a delightful sweetness and crunch. Make sure the sugar crystals are well incorporated with the cinnamon to ensure an even distribution of flavor.

Step 4: Dip the Bread Strips
Take each slice of bread and quickly dip it into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are coated but not soaked. Just a brief dip is enough to maintain the integrity of your bread while soaking up the delicious flavors. After dipping, let any excess drip off before moving to the next step.

Step 5: Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
While the bread is still moist, roll each stick in the cinnamon sugar mixture until fully coated. Alternatively, you can sprinkle the mixture generously on both sides for an easier option. This sweet coating is what transforms your Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks into a delectable treat worth waking up for!

Step 6: Arrange in the Air Fryer
Carefully place your coated French toast sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring there is space between each piece for proper air circulation. Avoid overcrowding the basket to achieve that crispy outer layer. This step is crucial for ensuring even cooking and delightful crunchiness.

Step 7: Cook to Crispy Perfection
Set your air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and cook the French toast sticks for about 6-8 minutes. Keep an eye on them and flip halfway through for golden-brown color on all sides. The sticks should come out crispy and fragrant, offering a visual cue that they’re ready to be devoured.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, remove the sticks from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are best enjoyed warm, paired with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Serve them up immediately for a delightful breakfast or fun dessert!

What to Serve with Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

The perfect companion to your morning indulgence awaits, elevating your breakfast experience to new heights!

Maple Syrup: Drizzle pure maple syrup on top for a classic touch of sweetness that complements the cinnamon flavor beautifully.
Fresh Berries: A handful of mixed berries adds a burst of freshness and color, making each bite feel vibrant and delightful. The tartness of raspberries or strawberries creates a harmonious balance with the sugary sticks.
Whipped Cream: Light and airy whipped cream lends a dreamy texture, making every mouthful feel like a special treat. It turns these French toast sticks into a delightful dessert experience too!
Coconut Yogurt: This creamy and slightly tangy yogurt is an excellent dip for your French toast, adding a wonderful creaminess. Plus, it brings in an exciting tropical flavor twist.
Cinnamon Apples: Sautéed apples seasoned with cinnamon create a warm, cozy flavor profile, enhancing the overall experience of your crispy sticks. This pairing is perfect for those chilly mornings!
Coffee or Tea: A warm cup of rich coffee or herbal tea pairs perfectly with the sweet, crunchy flavors of the French toast. The comforting beverages create a wonderful morning ritual.
Chocolate Sauce: For a decadent spin, serve with a drizzle of chocolate sauce. The rich sweetness elegantly contrasts the cinnamon notes, making breakfast feel like a special occasion.

Enjoy experimenting with these delightful pairings while savoring every crispy bite!

Make Ahead Options

These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the custard mixture (eggs, milk, and vanilla extract) up to 24 hours in advance, storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, the bread can be sliced and prepped by dipping it in the custard and rolling in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Just assemble this step ahead of time, and it will remain deliciously flavorful. When you’re ready to serve, simply place the sticks in the air fryer and cook as directed. This saves you precious morning minutes and ensures your French toast sticks are just as delightful as if made fresh!

Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Variations

Feel free to personalize these delightful sticks with your favorite twists and substitutions!

Dairy-Free: Substitute regular milk with almond, oat, or coconut milk for a creamy, guilt-free option.
Whole Grain: Use whole grain or wheat bread instead of brioche for a healthier, hearty version.
Pumpkin Spice: Add 1 teaspoon of pumpkin spice to the custard mixture for a seasonal flavor boost.
Chocolate Chip Delight: Mix a handful of chocolate chips into the custard for a sweet surprise in every bite.
Nutty Crunch: Sprinkle chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts on the stick before air frying for added texture and taste.
Extra Crispy: For an even crispier coating, double dip by first rolling in the custard, then back in the cinnamon sugar before air frying.
Fruity Twist: Serve with fresh fruit slices or berries on the side, adding a burst of freshness to each bite.
Cinnamon Roll Variation: Drizzle a simple icing made from powdered sugar and milk over the finished sticks for a sweet, cinnamon roll-inspired treat.

For more breakfast inspiration, try whipping up some Sugar Air Fryer or treat yourself with French Antilles Coconut. Enjoy exploring your culinary creativity!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer French Toast

Quick Dipping Method: Avoid sogginess by ensuring only a quick dip in the custard; too long will make the bread too wet.

Batch Cooking: If cooking multiple batches, air fry only a single layer of French toast sticks at a time for even crispiness.

Parchment Paper: If your sticks are sticking, feel free to line the air fryer basket with parchment paper for easy removal.

Flavor Variations: Don’t hesitate to explore different breads or spices; watermelon bread or nutmeg can add exciting flavors 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. For best results, reheat in the air fryer or oven to regain crispiness.

Freezer: Place completely cooled French toast sticks in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 2 months. Make sure to remove excess air from the bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: To reheat, air fry at 350°F (175°C) for about 3-5 minutes until heated through and crispy. This way, you’ll enjoy that delightful texture again!

Make-Ahead Tip: For quick breakfasts, prepare and freeze the sticks ahead of time, so you can easily enjoy your Air Fryer French Toast whenever cravings strike.

Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks Recipe FAQs

What’s the best bread to use for Air Fryer French Toast?
I highly recommend using brioche or Texas Toast for the best results! These thicker, richer breads hold up well against the custard and provide a delightful texture that doesn’t get too soggy. If you’re feeling adventurous, challah can be another fantastic option!

How should I store leftover French toast sticks?
Store your leftover Air Fryer French Toast Sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat in the air fryer for about 3-5 minutes at 350°F (175°C) to recapture that crispy exterior.

Can I freeze the French toast sticks?
Absolutely! After cooking, allow the French toast sticks to cool completely. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat, just reheat them in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3-5 minutes until warm and crispy!

What if my French toast sticks come out soggy?
To avoid soggy sticks, ensure that you’re giving them just a quick dip in the custard mixture—too long can lead to excess moisture. Also, make sure that you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket, as proper air circulation is key to achieving that crispy texture!

Can I make these French toast sticks ahead of time?
Definitely! You can prepare your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks ahead of time and freeze them after cooking. Just follow the previous freezing instructions. This makes for a wonderfully quick breakfast option whenever you’re in a pinch.

Are there any gluten-free options for this recipe?
Yes, if you need a gluten-free alternative, simply use your favorite gluten-free bread! The custard and cinnamon sugar coating will still deliver those delicious flavors you’re looking for. Just ensure your bread is thick enough to hold up during cooking.