Baked French Toast Sticks
There’s something undeniably delightful about the warm, comforting flavors of Baked French Toast Sticks. Perfect for brunch, breakfast, or even a delightful afternoon snack, these cinnamon-dusted delights are easy to prepare and serve a crowd. Imagine waking up to the sweet aroma of cinnamon and vanilla wafting through your kitchen as these sticks bake to golden perfection. Paired with a drizzle of maple syrup, they are sure to become a family favorite.
Why I Love This Recipe
What I love most about these Baked French Toast Sticks is their versatility. You can enjoy them fresh out of the oven or make them ahead of time for busy mornings. Not only are they irresistible, but they are also incredibly simple to prepare. The combination of Texas toast bread, eggs, and spices creates a custardy center that contrasts beautifully with a crisp exterior. Best of all, they are perfect for dipping—making breakfast feel like a fun treat rather than just another meal.
What Goes In
To whip up these delicious Baked French Toast Sticks, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp granulated sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness.
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon – Provides that warm, cozy flavor.
- 1 cup whole milk – For a rich custard base.
- 4 large eggs – The binding agent that holds everything together.
- 1 tsp vanilla extract – Enhances the overall flavor.
- 1 pinch salt – Balances the sweetness.
- 8 slices Texas toast bread – The star of the show, thick and fluffy.
- 2 Tbsp butter, melted – Adds richness and helps with browning.
- Maple syrup – For serving; the perfect sweet accompaniment.
Recommended Tools
To make your Baked French Toast Sticks, gather the following tools:
- Mixing bowl – For whisking together the custard ingredients.
- Baking dish – A 9×13 inch dish works perfectly.
- Whisk – To ensure your eggs are well incorporated.
- Spatula – For flipping the sticks halfway through baking.
- Oven mitts – Safety first when handling hot dishes!
- Serving plates – For presenting your delicious creation.
Baked French Toast Sticks, Made Easy
Creating the perfect Baked French Toast Sticks is a breeze. Just follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking and a perfectly golden finish.
Step 2: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
Step 3: Cut the Bread
Slice the Texas toast into thirds to create sticks. You can also use a serrated knife for a clean cut.
Step 4: Soak the Bread
Arrange the bread sticks in the baking dish, then pour the custard mixture over them. Allow the bread to soak for at least 10 minutes, turning the sticks occasionally to ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 5: Add Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the soaked bread sticks, making sure each piece is coated for a deliciously crispy finish.
Step 6: Bake
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and slightly puffed.
Step 7: Serve
Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm with maple syrup for dipping. Enjoy the crispy, custardy goodness!
Easy Ingredient Swaps
If you need to make some adjustments to the recipe, consider these easy swaps:
- Milk: Substitute with almond milk or oat milk for a dairy-free option.
- Texas toast: Use challah or brioche for an even richer flavor.
- Sugar: Swap granulated sugar with coconut sugar for a healthier alternative.
- Eggs: For a vegan version, use a commercial egg replacer or unsweetened applesauce.
Method to the Madness
The beauty of Baked French Toast Sticks lies not only in their flavor but also in their ease of preparation. Here’s a quick rundown of the method:
- Start by preheating your oven, as a properly heated oven will help create that perfect texture.
- Mix your custard ingredients thoroughly to avoid any egg chunks.
- Allow the bread to soak long enough to absorb the custard, but not so long that it falls apart.
- Baking them until golden ensures you have a delightful contrast between crispy edges and a soft center.
- Serve with maple syrup, but feel free to add fresh fruit or whipped cream for extra flair!
Save for Later: Storage Tips
If you have leftovers (which is rare!), here are some tips for storing your Baked French Toast Sticks:
Place the cooled sticks in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the toaster or oven until warmed through. For longer storage, you can freeze them. Lay the sticks on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just reheat from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Ask & Learn
Can I prepare the custard mixture the night before?
Yes! You can whisk together the custard ingredients and store them in the fridge overnight. Just soak the bread in the mixture in the morning before baking.
Can I use regular bread instead of Texas toast?
Absolutely! While Texas toast gives a nice thickness, any bread can work. Just adjust the soaking time based on the type of bread you choose.
How do I know when the French toast sticks are done baking?
The sticks should be puffed up and golden brown. A toothpick inserted in the center should come out clean, indicating that they are cooked through.
What can I serve with Baked French Toast Sticks besides syrup?
Consider serving them with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
Quick Weeknight Wins
If you’re looking for more quick and easy meal ideas, check out these links:
- Quick Chocolate Chip Cookies – Soft and chewy in under 30 minutes!
- Easy Chicken Fajitas – A one-pan wonder for busy nights.
- Easy Vegan Pasta – A simple, creamy dish that comes together in a flash.
- Easy Lemon Bars – Bright and tangy, perfect for dessert!
See You at the Table
As you gather around the table to enjoy your Baked French Toast Sticks, savor the moments shared over food and laughter. These delightful sticks are more than just a meal; they are a celebration of comfort and joy, perfect for family gatherings or an indulgent breakfast at home. Whether you’re dipping them in syrup or enjoying them plain, they are sure to become a cherished recipe in your home.
Let the warmth of the oven and the sweet scent of cinnamon fill your kitchen, and get ready to create some unforgettable memories. Enjoy every bite of your Baked French Toast Sticks!
Baked French Toast Sticks
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures even baking and a perfectly golden finish.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, whole milk, eggs, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Slice the Texas toast into thirds to create sticks. You can also use a serrated knife for a clean cut.
- Arrange the bread sticks in the baking dish, then pour the custard mixture over them. Allow the bread to soak for at least 10 minutes, turning the sticks occasionally to ensure they are evenly coated.
- Drizzle the melted butter over the soaked bread sticks, making sure each piece is coated for a deliciously crispy finish.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and slightly puffed.
- Remove from the oven, allow to cool slightly, and serve warm with maple syrup for dipping. Enjoy the crispy, custardy goodness!
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, substitute milk with almond milk or oat milk.
- Use challah or brioche for an even richer flavor instead of Texas toast.
- For a vegan version, use a commercial egg replacer or unsweetened applesauce.
