Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

There’s something undeniably comforting about French toast, and when you add the warm, cozy flavors of pumpkin, it transcends breakfast into a delightful seasonal treat. These Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are not only easy to make but also incredibly delicious, capturing the essence of fall in each bite. Imagine sinking your teeth into crispy, soft, and subtly spiced sticks perfect for dipping in maple syrup or enjoying on their own. They are a fun and easy way to enjoy breakfast—ideal for kids and adults alike. Plus, cooking them in an air fryer means less mess and quicker cooking, making brunching a breeze!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

This recipe for Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks is perfect for a cozy fall morning or a festive brunch gathering. They’re quick to prepare, healthy, and the air fryer gives them that golden, crispy exterior without needing to fully submerge them in oil. With the added pumpkin puree, you’re not only getting seasonal flavor but also a boost of nutrition. These French toast sticks are:

• Fluffy and Delicious: The pumpkin puree adds moisture, making these sticks incredibly soft and flavorful.
• Easy to Dip: Their shape makes them perfect for dunking in syrup or a sweet yogurt dip.
• Quick to Prepare: With minimal ingredients and only a few steps, you’ll have breakfast ready in no time.
• Customizable: Mix in your favorite toppings or flavors to personalize your breakfast.

Ingredients

To make these delightful Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks, you’ll need the following simple ingredients:

• 6 slices of thick-cut bread (your favorite variety)
• ¼ cup pumpkin puree (make sure it’s not pumpkin pie filling)
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• 1 tablespoon powdered sugar
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice

How To Make Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Now, let’s get into the easy step-by-step process to bring these pumpkin French toast sticks to life!

Step 1: Prepare the Batter

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the pumpkin puree, eggs, milk, powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and pumpkin pie spice. Make sure everything is well combined and the mixture is smooth. This will create a delicious custard that infuses the bread with flavor.

Step 2: Slice the Bread

Take your thick-cut bread and slice each piece into three strips. You want them to be about 1-1.5 inches wide, perfect for dipping! You can use any bread you like—brioche, challah, or even whole grain add a unique flavor profile.

Step 3: Soak the Bread

Dip each bread stick into the pumpkin batter, making sure to coat them well on all sides. Allow any excess custard to drip off. This is key for achieving that perfect balance between crispy edges and a soft center.

Step 4: Air Fry the Sticks

Preheat your air fryer to 350°F (175°C). Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking. Place the soaked bread sticks in an even layer in the air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Depending on the size of your air fryer, you may need to cook in batches.

Air fry the sticks for about 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through until they’re golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once your Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are done, carefully remove them from the basket. Serve warm with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or your favorite fruit topping. Enjoy them fresh for breakfast or as a fun snack!

Expert Tips

To ensure your Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks are a hit, here are some expert tips:

• Use thick-cut bread for the best texture. Thin slices tend to get too soggy and may not hold up well during cooking.
• Don’t skip the soaking step! Ensuring the bread is well-coated in the batter gives you that rich flavor and prevents it from being dry.
• Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on the cooking process the first time you make these, adjusting the time as needed.
• Let the sticks cool for a minute before serving; they will be quite hot right out of the air fryer!

Variations and Customizations

These French toast sticks are incredibly versatile! Here are a few delightful variations you can try:

• Add Chocolate Chips: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips into the batter or directly on the bread before air frying for a sweet twist.
• Use Different Spices: If pumpkin pie spice isn’t your favorite, try a mixture of cinnamon and nutmeg for a different flavor profile.
• Incorporate Nut or Seed Butters: Spread a thin layer of almond or peanut butter on the bread before dipping it into the batter for extra richness.
• Top with Whipped Cream or Yogurt: For a more decadent treat, serve with whipped cream or a dollop of yogurt alongside your syrup.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have any leftovers (though they’re likely to disappear quickly!), here’s how to store them:

These French toast sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can pop them back into the air fryer for a few minutes at 350°F until heated through or warm them in a toaster oven for crispiness.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sticks. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for a couple of hours before transferring them to an airtight freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat frozen sticks, simply air fry them directly from frozen at 350°F for about 12-15 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While thick-cut bread works best, you can experiment with your favorite breads, such as brioche, sourdough, or even gluten-free bread, to suit your preferences.

Is there a substitute for pumpkin puree?

Yes! You can substitute pumpkin puree with butternut squash puree or even sweet potato puree for a different yet delicious flavor.

Can I make these French toast sticks ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the batter a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to soak and cook the bread sticks fresh for optimal results.

What can I serve with Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks?

These sticks pair beautifully with maple syrup, honey, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a yogurt dip. You can also sprinkle them with additional powdered sugar for extra sweetness.

Conclusion

Your morning routine just got a delightful makeover with these Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks! They’re simple to prepare, boast an amazing autumn flavor, and are sure to please everyone at the breakfast table. Whether you’re celebrating the harvest season or simply craving a warm and inviting breakfast, these sticks are sure to become a new family favorite. So grab some pumpkin puree and thick-cut bread, and let’s get cooking! Indulge in each crispy, warm bite and savor the season, one French toast stick at a time. Happy cooking!