These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are a quick and delicious breakfast or snack! Thick-cut bread is soaked in a sweet and cinnamon-spiced batter, then air-fried to golden brown perfection. They’re perfect for dipping in maple syrup and are ready in under 20 minutes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you’re craving a delicious breakfast but don’t have a lot of time. It’s ready in just 18 minutes, thanks to the air fryer!
Healthier Indulgence: Air frying these French toast sticks requires less oil than traditional deep frying, making them a healthier option without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Kid-Friendly: These French toast sticks are a fun and delicious breakfast or snack that kids will love. They’re perfect for dipping in maple syrup or your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

Thick-sliced bread: Use thick-cut bread like Texas toast or brioche for the best texture.
Large eggs: Help bind the batter and create a custardy texture.
Milk: Adds richness and helps to create a smooth batter.
Vanilla extract: Adds a warm and sweet flavor.
Ground cinnamon: Adds a warm and comforting spice.
Granulated sugar: Adds sweetness to the batter.
Cooking spray: Helps to prevent sticking and promotes even browning.
Maple syrup: For serving and dipping.

Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Cut each slice of bread into four equal sticks.

Step 2: Make the Batter

In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until well combined.

Step 3: Dip the Bread Sticks

Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, making sure all sides are coated. Allow any excess batter to drip off. Avoid soaking the bread sticks for too long, or they may become soggy.

Step 4: Air Fry

Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease the air fryer basket with butter or cooking spray. Arrange the bread sticks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they don’t overlap. Air fry for 4 minutes, then flip the sticks and continue to air fry for another 4 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the French toast sticks hot with maple syrup for dipping. You can also add a sprinkle of powdered sugar or your favorite toppings, such as fresh fruit or whipped cream.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Thick-Cut Bread: Use thick-cut bread like Texas toast or brioche for the best texture. Thinner bread may become too dry and crispy in the air fryer.
Adjust Sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet version, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the egg mixture.
Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheating the air fryer ensures that the French toast sticks cook evenly and become crispy.

How to Serve

These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are delicious on their own or with:

Maple syrup: A classic pairing for French toast.
Fresh fruit: Add some fresh berries or sliced bananas for a touch of sweetness and freshness.
Whipped cream: A dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence.
Chocolate sauce: Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the sticks for a decadent treat.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover French toast sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked French toast sticks for up to 2 months. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.

Reheating

Reheat leftover French toast sticks in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes, or until heated through and crispy. You can also reheat them in the oven or toaster oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular sliced bread?

While you can use regular sliced bread, it may become too dry and crispy in the air fryer. Thick-cut bread is recommended for the best texture.

2. Can I make this recipe without an air fryer?

Yes, you can cook the French toast sticks in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat with a little butter or oil. Cook for a few minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.

3. Can I add other spices to the batter?

Absolutely! Feel free to add other spices, such as nutmeg, cardamom, or allspice, to the batter for a more complex flavor.

4. How can I prevent the French toast sticks from sticking to the air fryer basket?

Make sure to grease the air fryer basket with butter or cooking spray before adding the bread sticks. You can also use parchment paper or a silicone liner in the basket.