Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are the perfect breakfast indulgence—crispy on the outside, soft and fluffy inside, and coated with a sweet cinnamon-sugar finish. I love how quickly they come together using just a few pantry staples. They’re easy to prep, family-friendly, and great for busy mornings or a cozy weekend brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and simple—ready in just 15 minutes
• No skillet required—just your trusty air fryer
• Kid-friendly and perfect for dipping
• Make-ahead and freezer-friendly
• Customizable for sweet or balanced breakfasts

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 4 slices bread
• ⅓ cup milk
• 2 large eggs
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon butter (or cooking spray for greasing)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• ⅓ cup granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Maple syrup (optional, for serving)

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Bread
I preheat my air fryer to 350°F (175°C) if it needs it. While that heats, I slice the bread into sticks—usually 3 or 4 sticks per slice.

Step 2: Mix the Egg Mixture
In a mixing bowl, I whisk together the milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth.

Step 3: Mix the Cinnamon Sugar
In a separate shallow dish, I stir together the cinnamon and sugar for coating later.

Step 4: Dip and Arrange
I lightly grease the air fryer basket with butter or cooking spray. Then I dip each breadstick into the egg mixture, letting the excess drip off, and lay them in the basket in a single layer.

Step 5: Air Fry
I cook them at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden and crisp.

Step 6: Coat and Serve
While they’re still hot, I sprinkle the sticks with cinnamon sugar so it sticks nicely. Then I serve them right away with a side of maple syrup for dipping.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

• Stuffed version: Spread a little Nutella or cream cheese between two slices before slicing and dipping.
• Spiced twist: Add a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the egg mixture.
• Savory style: Skip the sugar and cinnamon and season with herbs and cheese for a savory breakfast version.
• Vegan option: Use plant-based milk and an egg replacer.

Storage/Reheating

Fridge: I store leftover cooked sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Freezer: To freeze, I dip the sticks in egg mixture, freeze them in a single layer, then transfer to a bag.
Reheat: I reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–5 minutes or until warmed through and crisp again.

FAQs

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, I often freeze the dipped but uncooked sticks on a tray. I air fry straight from frozen—just add 2–3 extra minutes of cook time.

What type of bread works best?

Thick, sturdy slices like Texas toast, brioche, or sourdough hold up great. I try to avoid very soft sandwich bread.

Can I skip the cinnamon sugar?

Absolutely. I sometimes leave it off and just serve with maple syrup or powdered sugar.

Are these good for toddlers?

They’re perfect for little hands and easy to chew. I just skip the sugar coating or reduce it to keep things lighter.

Can I double the batch?

Yes! I work in batches and keep the first round warm in the oven at 200°F until ready to serve.

Conclusion

These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are a staple in my kitchen when I want something sweet, satisfying, and fuss-free. Whether I’m feeding a hungry family or just treating myself to an easy brunch, this recipe always delivers. I love how simple it is to prepare, and it never fails to impress with its crisp texture and cozy cinnamon flavor.

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