If you’ve been searching for a fun twist on a classic breakfast favorite, this Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine crispy-on-the-outside, soft-and-custardy-on-the-inside sticks of brioche bread, perfectly seasoned with cinnamon and vanilla, all cooked quickly in your air fryer for a golden, satisfying treat. These delightful sticks are easy to make, wonderfully shareable, and ideal for dipping in maple syrup or toppings of your choice. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just craving a comforting morning snack, this recipe will become your new go-to for breakfast or brunch.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully simple but absolutely essential. Each one plays a key role in creating the perfect balance of sweetness, flavor, and texture — making sure your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe turns out irresistibly delicious every time.
- 8 Slices Brioche Bread: Soft, slightly sweet, and fluffy bread that crisps up beautifully without drying out.
- 3 Large Eggs: The base of the custard mixture, providing richness and structure.
- ½ Cup Whole Milk: Adds creaminess and helps create that tender custard coating.
- 1 Tablespoon Granulated White Sugar: Just the right touch of sweetness to balance the cinnamon.
- 1 Teaspoon Cinnamon: Brings warmth and a hint of spice that makes the flavor pop.
- ½ Teaspoon Vanilla Extract: Enhances the sweetness and depth of the custard with a lovely aroma.
- Pinch Salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies the flavors overall.
How to Make Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe
Step 1: Cut the Brioche Bread
Begin by slicing your brioche bread into thirds lengthwise. This shapes perfect “sticks” that are easy to handle and cook evenly. Using brioche ensures each stick will be tender inside and crisp up beautifully outside.
Step 2: Whisk the Egg Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the eggs, whole milk, sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Whisk everything together until smooth and perfectly blended. This custard mix is what will transform the bread sticks into delicious French toast.
Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure to spray the basket with a non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking and help the sticks crisp to a lovely golden brown.
Step 4: Dip and Arrange the Bread Sticks
Working in batches to avoid overcrowding, dip each bread stick into the egg mixture. Let each piece soak for about 10 to 15 seconds to absorb enough custard while still holding its shape. Then, place the sticks carefully in the air fryer basket, making sure they aren’t touching for even cooking.
Step 5: Air Fry Until Golden
Cook the French toast sticks in the air fryer for about 5 minutes or until they’re golden brown and crisp on the outside. Repeat this process with the remaining sticks, maintaining that perfect texture and warmth.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, serve your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe piping hot, ideally with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar for that classic finishing touch. Prepare yourself for delicious, satisfying bites that everyone will rave about.
How to Serve Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe
Garnishes
Enhance your serving by adding a sprinkle of powdered sugar or a dash of cinnamon on top. Fresh berries or sliced bananas also add a burst of color and natural sweetness, making your plate look as amazing as it tastes.
Side Dishes
Pair your French toast sticks with crispy bacon or sausage links for a savory counterbalance. For a lighter option, serve alongside a colorful fruit salad or some Greek yogurt with honey for dipping.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the sticks in a little tower on a decorative plate, or serve them in a fun basket lined with a colorful napkin for a casual brunch vibe. Individual dipping bowls filled with maple syrup, chocolate sauce, or fruit compote invite everyone to customize their perfect bite.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe, store them in an airtight container at room temperature for up to two days. This keeps them fresh enough to reheat without losing too much crispness.
Freezing
French toast sticks freeze beautifully. Arrange cooled sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for an hour. Then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, where they can keep for up to 2 months. This makes for a ready-to-air-fry breakfast anytime.
Reheating
For reheating, pop the sticks back into the air fryer at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 2–3 minutes. This quickly restores their crispy exterior while warming the inside perfectly—no sogginess here!
FAQs
Can I use bread other than brioche for this recipe?
Absolutely! While brioche is ideal due to its soft texture and slight sweetness, other breads like challah or even thick white sandwich bread will work fine. Just avoid very dense or crusty breads that may not soak up the custard well.
Do I need to flip the sticks during air frying?
No flipping is necessary. The air fryer’s circulating heat cooks evenly on all sides, giving you perfectly golden French toast sticks without the hassle of turning them over.
How long can I leave the bread in the egg mixture?
About 10 to 15 seconds per side is perfect. Soaking too long can make the sticks soggy and prone to breaking. A quick dip ensures they absorb enough custard but remain easy to handle.
Can I make these gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free bread that has a similar texture to brioche. The recipe works well as long as the bread is soft and can hold the custard mixture without falling apart.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?
Definitely. They’re easy to make ahead, freeze, and reheat. This Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe offers a practical, delicious breakfast option that saves time on busy mornings.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe is a total game-changer when you want a breakfast that’s quick, delicious, and fun to eat. It’s the perfect balance of crispy, fluffy, and flavorful, plus it’s so simple to make in your air fryer. Invite friends or family over or treat yourself to this scrumptious recipe that’s bound to become a cherished favorite. Go ahead and give it a try — your mornings just got a whole lot tastier!
