I love making these Air Fryer French Toast Sticks when I want a quick breakfast that feels special but takes very little effort. They turn out golden and crispy on the outside while staying soft and fluffy on the inside. I enjoy serving them warm with maple syrup for dipping, and they always disappear fast at my table.
Ingredients
6 slices thick-cut bread (Texas toast or challah)
2 large eggs
½ cup milk or milk alternative
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
cooking spray or melted butter
maple syrup for serving
(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
I start by cutting each slice of bread into 3 to 4 finger-sized sticks.
In a shallow bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
I dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, making sure it is fully coated without becoming too soggy. I let the excess mixture drip off before placing it aside.
I preheat my air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for about 3 minutes. Then I lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush it with melted butter.
I arrange the coated bread sticks in a single layer in the basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. If needed, I cook them in batches.
I air fry the sticks for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
I serve them warm with maple syrup for dipping.
Servings and timing
I usually get about 3 servings from this recipe, depending on how large the bread slices are and how many sticks I cut from each slice.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 8 to 10 minutes
Total time: about 20 minutes
Variations
I sometimes sprinkle powdered sugar on top after cooking for a sweeter finish.
I like using slightly stale bread because it soaks up the custard better without falling apart.
For a fun twist, I dip the finished sticks in chocolate sauce or fruit compote instead of maple syrup.
I occasionally add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture for extra flavor.
When I want a healthier option, I use whole wheat bread and reduce the sugar slightly.
Storage/Reheating
I store leftover French toast sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
When I want to freeze them, I let them cool completely, then place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually before transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. They keep well for up to 2 months.
To reheat, I put them back in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. I can also reheat them in the oven or toaster oven for similar results.
FAQs
Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes, I often make a batch ahead and store them in the fridge or freezer. I simply reheat them in the air fryer to bring back the crispiness.
What type of bread works best?
I prefer thick-cut bread like Texas toast or challah because it holds up well when dipped in the egg mixture and stays fluffy inside.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
I easily swap regular milk for almond, oat, or soy milk. The texture and flavor still turn out great.
Why are my French toast sticks soggy?
If they turn out soggy, I may have soaked the bread too long or overcrowded the basket. I make sure to let excess custard drip off and cook them in a single layer.
Can I bake these instead of air frying?
Yes, I can bake them in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 12 to 15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
Conclusion
I find these Air Fryer French Toast Sticks to be one of the easiest and most satisfying breakfast recipes I make. They are crispy, flavorful, and incredibly simple to prepare. I love how flexible the recipe is, and I can easily adjust it to suit my taste or what I have in my kitchen. Whether I serve them for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, they always turn out delicious.
📖 Recipe:
Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
No reviews
- Author: Cheryl
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, these Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are a quick and easy breakfast made with simple ingredients and warm cinnamon-vanilla flavor.
Ingredients
6 slices thick-cut bread (Texas toast or challah)
2 large eggs
½ cup milk or milk alternative
2 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Cooking spray or melted butter (for air fryer basket)
Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Cut each slice of bread into 3 to 4 finger-sized sticks.
- In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
- Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, coating fully without soaking too long. Let excess mixture drip off.
- Preheat the air fryer to 370°F (188°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with cooking spray or brush with melted butter.
- Arrange the coated bread sticks in a single layer in the basket without overcrowding. Cook in batches if necessary.
- Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve warm with maple syrup for dipping.
Notes
Use slightly stale bread for better absorption without becoming soggy.
Sprinkle with powdered sugar for extra sweetness.
Add a pinch of nutmeg or orange zest for additional flavor.
Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3 to 5 minutes until crispy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8-10 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 260 kcal
- Sugar: 12 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 9 g
- Cholesterol: 125 mg
