Air fryer French toast sticks offer a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic breakfast favorite. They bring together the comforting flavors of French toast in a fun, fingers-on format that is perfect for both kids and adults. With the air fryer doing most of the work, you can whip up a batch quickly, making this dish a go-to for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. The crispy outside and soft, flavorful inside make each bite a delightful experience, and you can easily customize them to suit your taste.
Why We Love This Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
These air fryer French toast sticks are a hit for many reasons. First, they provide a wonderfully crispy texture without deep frying, making for a lighter option that still feels indulgent. The air fryer cooks them evenly while maintaining that satisfying crunch, which contrasts beautifully with the soft, custardy center. This dish is also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a delicious breakfast that impresses without a lot of effort. Convenience is another big plus; you can batch-cook them and freeze any leftovers for quick meals on the go. Plus, their size and shape make them perfect for dipping, adding an interactive element that both kids and adults will love.
Ingredients for Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
- 6 slices of bread (thick-cut works best, such as Texas toast or brioche)
- 3 large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or alternative sweetener)
- Pinch of salt
- Cooking spray
- Maple syrup (for serving)
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream
Directions
- Start by cutting the bread into thirds to form sticks.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, ensuring each side is well-coated but not overly soggy.
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about five minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the dipped bread sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
- Cook the sticks for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Once done, remove them from the basket and repeat the process with the remaining sticks, if necessary.
- Serve warm, along with your favorite dipping sauces and toppings.
How to Serve Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
Serving air fryer French toast sticks is a chance to get creative and cater to different tastes. These sticks pair perfectly with maple syrup for dipping, making each bite sweet and flavorful. You can elevate your presentation with a dusting of powdered sugar or serve them alongside fresh fruit like strawberries, blueberries, or bananas for a refreshing contrast. If you’re feeling indulgent, consider adding a dollop of whipped cream on the side. This combination allows everyone at the table to customize their own experience, whether they prefer a lighter option with fruit or a dessert-like treat with syrup and whipped cream. You can also serve the sticks on a platter and let people pick at them throughout the morning or during a brunch gathering. The fun finger food element makes them great for social occasions, too.
Expert Tips for Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
When making air fryer French toast sticks, a few expert tips can enhance your experience and results. First, choose a good quality bread; thicker slices such as brioche or challah best absorb the custard mixture and help achieve that ideal texture. Always ensure that your bread is slightly stale or dry, as fresh bread can become too soggy. For added flavor, consider mixing in a pinch of nutmeg or using flavored milk, like almond or coconut, instead of regular milk. Don’t forget to spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray before adding the sticks to prevent them from sticking. Also, check your air fryer’s instructions for cooking times, as they can slightly vary depending on the model. Lastly, serve these sticks immediately after cooking for the best texture and flavor; they taste best when fresh.
How to Store Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
To store leftover air fryer French toast sticks, allow them to cool completely at room temperature. Place them in an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper if you have multiple layers, to prevent them from sticking together. These sticks can be stored in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them. Lay the cooked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply reheat the frozen sticks in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 5-7 minutes or until warmed through.
Variations of Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
The beauty of air fryer French toast sticks is their versatility. You can easily adjust the ingredients and flavors to match your personal preference or what you have on hand. For a dessert twist, try adding chocolate chips to the egg mixture or rolling the cooked sticks in cinnamon sugar after they come out of the fryer. You can also experiment with different bread types for unique flavors; consider using cinnamon-raisin bread for added sweetness or sourdough for a tangy punch. If you’re feeling adventurous, try stuffing the bread sticks with cream cheese or nut butter before dipping them in the custard. This will give you a rich filling that pairs beautifully with the crispy exterior. You can also consider savory options by mixing herbs or spices into the egg mixture and serving them with tomato sauce or a sprinkle of cheese.
FAQ about Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
How long do air fryer French toast sticks last?
Properly stored in the refrigerator, air fryer French toast sticks will last for about three days. If you freeze them, they can stay good for up to three months.
Can I use any type of bread for air fryer French toast sticks?
Yes, you can use virtually any type of bread. However, thicker, sturdier breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast work best as they soak up the egg mixture without falling apart.
Are air fryer French toast sticks healthier than traditional versions?
Yes, air fryer French toast sticks typically use less oil than traditional fried versions, making them a healthier option while still delivering on taste and texture.
Can I make air fryer French toast sticks ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the egg mixture the night before and store your cut bread in the fridge. Just dip and cook them in the morning.
How do I make my French toast sticks extra crispy?
For extra crispiness, try soaking the bread just enough for it to absorb the egg mixture but avoid making it soggy. Additionally, ensure your air fryer is preheated, and don’t overcrowd the basket—this helps promote even cooking and crust formation.
Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 6 slices slices of bread (thick-cut works best, such as Texas toast or brioche)
- 3 large large eggs
- 1 cup milk (or milk alternative)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons sugar (or alternative sweetener)
- 1 pinch salt
For Cooking and Serving
- Cooking spray To prevent sticking
- Maple syrup For serving
- Optional toppings: powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or whipped cream Customize to taste
Instructions
Preparation
- Cut the bread into thirds to form sticks.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until well combined.
- Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, ensuring each side is well-coated but not overly soggy.
Cooking
- Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about five minutes.
- Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Arrange the dipped bread sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they do not overlap.
- Cook the sticks for about 8-10 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- Once done, remove them from the basket and repeat the process with the remaining sticks, if necessary.
- Serve warm, along with your favorite dipping sauces and toppings.
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