Cinnamon French Toast Sticks: The Ultimate Breakfast Recipe

Cinnamon French Toast Sticks: Who can resist the allure of warm, golden-brown sticks of pure breakfast bliss? I know I certainly can’t! These aren’t just any breakfast treat; they’re a nostalgic trip back to childhood, reimagined for the modern palate. Imagine waking up to the comforting aroma of cinnamon swirling through your kitchen, promising a delightful start to your day.

French toast, in its various forms, has a rich history, dating back to ancient Rome. Recipes resembling French toast have been found in Roman cookbooks, demonstrating its enduring appeal across cultures and centuries. While the exact origin of the “French” connection is debated, the dish has become a beloved staple in countless households worldwide. But let’s be honest, sometimes we crave a little more fun and convenience, and that’s where these cinnamon French toast sticks truly shine.

What makes these sticks so irresistible? It’s the perfect combination of textures: a crispy, slightly caramelized exterior giving way to a soft, custardy interior. The warm, spicy notes of cinnamon complement the sweetness of the bread, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your tongue. Plus, their convenient stick shape makes them perfect for dipping, dunking, and enjoying on the go. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick and easy breakfast solution or simply a breakfast enthusiast seeking a delightful treat, these cinnamon-infused delights are guaranteed to become a new family favorite. Get ready to experience breakfast perfection, one delicious stick at a time!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) challah, brioche, or Texas toast bread, cut into 1-inch thick slices
• 6 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole milk or 2% recommended for richness)
• 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional, but adds extra creaminess)
• 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon packed light brown sugar
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, but adds warmth)
• Pinch of salt
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
• Cooking spray

Preparing the Egg Mixture:

Alright, let’s get started by whipping up the delicious egg mixture that will coat our French toast sticks. This is where the magic happens, so pay close attention!

1. In a large bowl, crack all 6 eggs. Make sure you don’t get any shell fragments in there!
2. Add the milk and heavy cream (if using) to the bowl with the eggs. The heavy cream really elevates the richness, but it’s perfectly fine to skip it if you’re looking for a slightly lighter version.
3. Now, it’s time for the sweetness! Add the granulated sugar and light brown sugar to the mixture. The brown sugar adds a lovely depth of flavor that complements the cinnamon beautifully.
4. Next, sprinkle in the ground cinnamon and nutmeg (if using). Don’t be shy with the cinnamon – it’s the star of the show! The nutmeg adds a subtle warmth that rounds out the flavor profile.
5. Finally, add the vanilla extract and a pinch of salt. The vanilla enhances all the other flavors, and the salt helps to balance the sweetness.
6. Using a whisk, thoroughly combine all the ingredients until the mixture is smooth and homogenous. Make sure there are no streaks of egg yolk or sugar clumps. A well-mixed batter ensures even coating and delicious results.

Preparing the Bread:

Now that our egg mixture is ready, let’s prepare the bread. The type of bread you use is crucial for achieving the perfect French toast sticks. I highly recommend challah, brioche, or Texas toast. These breads are sturdy enough to hold their shape during cooking and have a slightly sweet flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.

1. If you haven’t already, cut the bread into 1-inch thick slices. This thickness is ideal for creating sticks that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
2. Lay each slice of bread flat on a cutting board.
3. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut each slice of bread into 3-4 sticks, depending on the size of the slice. You want the sticks to be roughly the same size for even cooking.

Soaking the Bread:

This is a critical step! Don’t rush it. Soaking the bread properly ensures that the French toast sticks are moist and flavorful throughout.

1. Pour the egg mixture into a shallow dish or baking pan. The dish should be wide enough to easily accommodate the bread sticks.
2. One at a time, gently place the bread sticks into the egg mixture.
3. Let the bread sticks soak for about 15-20 seconds per side. You want them to be thoroughly saturated with the egg mixture, but not so soggy that they fall apart. A good rule of thumb is to let them soak until they are slightly pliable.
4. Carefully remove the soaked bread sticks from the egg mixture and place them on a wire rack. This allows any excess egg mixture to drip off, preventing the French toast sticks from becoming greasy during cooking.

Cooking the French Toast Sticks:

Time to cook these beauties! We’ll be using a combination of butter and cooking spray to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust.

1. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the skillet and let it melt completely.
3. Spray the skillet with cooking spray. This will help prevent the French toast sticks from sticking and ensure even browning.
4. Once the skillet is hot and the butter is melted, carefully place the soaked bread sticks onto the skillet. Don’t overcrowd the skillet – work in batches if necessary.
5. Cook the French toast sticks for about 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Use a spatula to flip them carefully.
6. Repeat steps 2-5 with the remaining butter and bread sticks.

Serving and Enjoying:

The best part! Serve these warm and enjoy the fruits of your labor.

1. Remove the cooked French toast sticks from the skillet and place them on a serving platter.
2. Serve immediately with your favorite toppings. Some popular options include:
   • Maple syrup
   • Powdered sugar
   • Fresh berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
   • Whipped cream
   • Chocolate sauce
   • Caramel sauce
   • Nutella
   • Cinnamon sugar
3. Enjoy your delicious homemade Cinnamon French Toast Sticks!

Tips for Success:

• Don’t oversoak the bread: Oversoaking will result in soggy French toast sticks. Aim for about 15-20 seconds per side.
• Use the right heat: Medium heat is ideal for cooking French toast sticks. Too high, and they’ll burn on the outside before they’re cooked through. Too low, and they’ll be pale and greasy.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet: Overcrowding will lower the temperature of the skillet and prevent the French toast sticks from browning properly. Work in batches if necessary.
• Keep them warm: If you’re making a large batch, keep the cooked French toast sticks warm in a preheated oven (200°F) until ready to serve.
• Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add other spices to the egg mixture, such as cardamom, ginger, or allspice. You can also add a splash of orange juice or lemon zest for a citrusy twist.

Variations:

• Stuffed French Toast Sticks: Before soaking the bread, make a small slit in each stick and stuff it with cream cheese, Nutella, or fruit preserves.
• Baked French Toast Sticks: For a hands-off approach, bake the soaked bread sticks in a preheated oven (375°F) for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
• Savory French Toast Sticks: Omit the sugar and cinnamon from the egg mixture and add savory ingredients such as grated cheese, herbs, and spices. Serve with a fried egg or bacon.

Make-Ahead Instructions:

You can prepare the egg mixture and cut the bread sticks ahead of time. Store the egg mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Store the bread sticks in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.

Storage Instructions:

Leftover French toast sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet, oven, or microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion:

And there you have it! These Cinnamon French Toast Sticks are more than just a breakfast; they’re a delightful experience waiting to happen. I truly believe this recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their morning routine or create a memorable brunch for friends and family. The combination of warm cinnamon, sweet vanilla, and perfectly crisped bread is simply irresistible.

Why is this recipe a must-try, you ask? Well, beyond the incredible flavor, it’s incredibly versatile and surprisingly easy to make. Forget those soggy, store-bought versions! These homemade sticks are bursting with flavor and have a satisfying texture that will leave you wanting more. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use up any slightly stale bread you might have lying around – turning a potential waste product into a delicious treat. It’s a win-win!

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Let’s talk serving suggestions and variations. For a classic experience, serve these Cinnamon French Toast Sticks with a generous drizzle of pure maple syrup. The combination is timeless and utterly satisfying. However, don’t be afraid to get creative! A dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, while a dollop of whipped cream elevates them to dessert status.

Looking for something a little different? Try dipping them in a homemade fruit compote. Berries like strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries pair beautifully with the cinnamon flavor. Or, for a truly decadent treat, try a chocolate hazelnut spread. The possibilities are endless!

And speaking of variations, feel free to experiment with different types of bread. Challah bread makes for an extra rich and fluffy French toast stick, while brioche adds a touch of sweetness. You could even use cinnamon raisin bread for an extra boost of cinnamon flavor! For a healthier twist, try using whole wheat bread and reducing the amount of sugar in the egg mixture.

If you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the cinnamon sugar mixture. These warm spices will add a subtle depth of flavor that will take your French toast sticks to the next level. You could also add a splash of orange zest to the egg mixture for a bright and citrusy twist.

Another fun variation is to add a sprinkle of chopped nuts to the cinnamon sugar mixture before coating the bread. Pecans, walnuts, or almonds would all be delicious additions. This will add a satisfying crunch and a nutty flavor that complements the cinnamon perfectly.

I’m so excited for you to try this recipe! I know you’ll love the warm, comforting flavors and the satisfying crunch of these homemade Cinnamon French Toast Sticks. They’re perfect for a quick breakfast, a leisurely brunch, or even a late-night snack.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your griddle, and get ready to create some magic in the kitchen. I’m confident that this recipe will become a new family favorite.

Once you’ve tried it, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience! Did you make any variations? What were your favorite toppings? Share your photos and stories in the comments below. I can’t wait to see what you create! Happy cooking! Let me know if you have any questions, and I’ll do my best to help. Enjoy your delicious homemade French toast sticks!