Name: Delicious Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Ready in 20 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Ingredients: 2 large Eggs (Substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.); ½ cup Milk (Substitute with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.); 1 teaspoon Cinnamon (Use nutmeg or pumpkin spice as alternatives if desired.); 1 teaspoon Vanilla Extract (Can be omitted or swapped with almond extract.); 2 tablespoons Brown Sugar (Replace with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.); 4 slices Bread (Sturdy varieties like brioche or Texas toast work best; use gluten-free bread if desired.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of warm cinnamon wafted through the air, instantly bringing me back to lazy Sunday mornings filled with laughter and delicious brunches. This experience inspired my latest creation: Easy Air Fryer French Toast Sticks. With less than 20 minutes of prep time, these delightful sticks are the ideal solution for those who crave homemade goodness without the fuss. They offer a crispy exterior while remaining fluffy and tender inside, all without the guilt of traditional frying methods. Plus, they can easily adapt to fit various dietary needs, making them gluten-free if desired. Ready to elevate your breakfast game? Let’s dive into how you can whip up these crowd-pleasers that might just become your new family favorite!

Why Are These French Toast Sticks Amazing?

Quick and Easy: You can prepare these Air Fryer French Toast Sticks in under 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy mornings or last-minute brunch plans.
Customizable Options: Whether you’re gluten-free or vegan, this recipe offers simple substitutions, so everyone can enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: By using an air fryer, you get all the classic flavors with a crispy texture but less grease, allowing you to savor each bite without the heavy feel.
Perfect for Sharing: Serve them alongside your favorite dip or fresh fruits, and you’ve got a crowd-pleaser that will impress family and friends. Looking for other quick options? Check out my tasty Air Fryer Chicken Tenders or the delightful French Toast Casserole.
Comforting Flavor: The irresistible blend of cinnamon and vanilla brings warmth and nostalgia, making these sticks not just a meal, but a satisfying experience.

Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Ingredients

For the Batter

Eggs – Provides structure and richness; substitute with flax eggs for a vegan option.
Milk – Adds moisture and creaminess; substitute with almond, soy, or oat milk for a dairy-free version.
Cinnamon – Enhances flavor with warm spice; use nutmeg or pumpkin spice as alternatives if desired.
Vanilla Extract – Adds sweetness and aroma; can be omitted or swapped with almond extract for a different flavor.
Brown Sugar – Adds sweetness and moisture; replace with maple syrup or honey for a natural sweetener.

For the Bread

Bread – The base of the dish; sturdy varieties like brioche or Texas toast work best, but gluten-free bread can also be used for dietary needs.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Batter
In a shallow bowl, whisk together 2 beaten eggs, ½ cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 2 tablespoons of brown sugar until the mixture is smooth and well-combined. The goal is to create a rich, creamy batter that will coat your bread sticks. Set this mixture aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the bread.

Step 2: Prep the Bread
Choose a sturdy loaf of bread like brioche or Texas toast for your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks. Cut the bread into thick sticks about 1 inch wide. If preferred, you may remove the crusts for a softer bite. Lay the prepared bread sticks on a plate, ready to be soaked in the rich batter you just made, ensuring they will absorb all that delicious flavor.

Step 3: Soak the Bread
Take each bread stick and dip it into the batter, ensuring that both sides are coated well. Allow the bread to soak for just a few seconds on each side—avoid letting it become too soggy. The goal is to achieve a perfect balance between moisture and structure, ensuring the sticks will cook well in the air fryer and maintain that delightful texture.

Step 4: Preheat Air Fryer
While the bread is soaking, preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). This step is crucial for achieving the perfect crispiness. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush it with melted butter to ensure the French toast sticks don’t stick. Allow your air fryer to heat up for about 3-5 minutes before cooking your delicious sticks.

Step 5: Cook
Carefully place the soaked bread sticks in a single layer in the preheated air fryer basket, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through the cooking time. You’ll know they’re ready when they turn a beautiful golden brown with a crispy exterior. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes for optimal doneness.

Step 6: Serve
Once your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are cooked to perfection, remove them from the air fryer and transfer them to a serving plate. Serve immediately for the best texture, paired with maple syrup, fresh fruits, or your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy this delightful breakfast treat that’s sure to bring joy to your mornings!

Expert Tips for Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

Choose the Right Bread: Opt for sturdy bread like brioche or Texas toast to prevent sogginess and ensure perfect texture in your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks.
Controlled Soaking: Dip bread sticks briefly without over-soaking them to keep their shape and achieve the ideal fluffy interior.
Preheat Matters: Always preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C) to ensure that your French toast sticks cook evenly and become wonderfully crispy.
Avoid Overcrowding: Place the bread sticks in a single layer inside the air fryer. Cooking too many at once can lead to uneven cooking and soggy spots.
Monitor Cooking Time: Keep an eye on your sticks during the last minutes of cooking. Flipping them halfway ensures they get that golden-brown color on both sides.
Serve Immediately: Enjoy these delicious treats right after cooking! Allowing them to sit may affect their delightful crispiness.

Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Variations

Customize your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks and elevate their flavor, nutrition, or texture with these delightful ideas that will surely inspire your culinary creativity!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread varieties to make this breakfast classic accessible for those with dietary restrictions. Enjoy the same crispy delight that everyone loves!
Vegan: Replace eggs with flax eggs and dairy milk with almond or oat milk to create a delicious vegan alternative. These twists allow everyone to join in on breakfast fun.
Sweet Spice: Mix in a dash of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a unique flavor profile that brings a little twist to the traditional cinnamon flavor. The warming spices will elevate your breakfast experience!
Fruity Delight: Add fresh fruits such as banana slices, berries, or even chocolate chips to the batter before soaking the sticks for a sweet and fruity surprise inside. Bursting with flavor, each bite reveals sweet fruity goodness.
Savory Version: Swap the sweet spices for a savory blend of herbs and cheese to create a unique breakfast. Think of it as French toast meets your favorite savory breakfast dish—deliciously innovative!
Nut Butter Dip: Serve with almond or peanut butter instead of syrup for a protein-packed dipping option. Not only does it add flavor, but it also enhances the texture and excitement at breakfast!
Chocolate Indulgence: Drizzle melted dark chocolate over the finished sticks for a decadent twist that chocolate lovers will adore. A little chocolate elevates breakfast to a dessert experience!
Crispy Coating: For added texture, coat the sticks in crushed cornflakes before air frying. This creates a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the fluffy interior, making your breakfast irresistible. If you love crispy textures, this is a must-try!

Explore all these delicious variations and make your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks a breakfast sensation that suits everyone’s taste! If you enjoyed these suggestions, don’t miss out on my Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes for another fun twist on your morning routine.

Make Ahead Options

These Easy Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy mornings! You can prepare the batter (eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and brown sugar) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it. Additionally, you can slice the bread sticks and keep them in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to cook, simply soak the prepped bread sticks in the batter and cook them in the air fryer as directed. This way, you’ll enjoy restaurant-quality French toast sticks with minimal effort, ensuring your busy weeknights feel a bit more special!

Storage Tips for Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

Fridge: Store any leftover Air Fryer French Toast Sticks in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain their delicious flavor and texture.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can stay fresh for up to 1 month.

Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen or refrigerated sticks in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again.

What to Serve with Easy Air Fryer French Toast Sticks

As you savor these delightful French toast sticks, imagine the possibilities for a cozy breakfast spread that transforms your morning into a culinary celebration.

Fresh Fruit Salad: A vibrant mix of berries, melon, and citrus adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, sweet sticks.
Creamy Yogurt: Spoonfuls of Greek yogurt drizzled with honey provide a tangy kick, balancing the richness of the French toast.
Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs make for a satisfying and protein-packed addition, bringing a hearty touch to your breakfast table.
Maple Syrup: Drizzling pure maple syrup enhances the flavors, marrying sweet and savory while ensuring each bite is a delicious treat.
Crispy Bacon or Sausage Links: The crunch of crispy bacon or savory sausage links complements the sweetness beautifully, creating that classic breakfast experience.
Whipped Cream: A dollop of lightly sweetened whipped cream can elevate your French toast sticks to a dessert-like indulgence.
Cinnamon Dipping Sauce: Mix yogurt with a touch of cinnamon and maple for a delightful dipping sauce that echoes the flavors of the French toast.
Chai Tea or Coffee: Steaming cups of chai tea or freshly brewed coffee create the perfect warm drink pairing, enhancing your breakfast experience with aromatic notes.
Powdered Sugar Sprinkling: A light dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant finish, making your breakfast visually appealing and sweetening every bite.
Fruit Compote: Serve with a warm fruit compote for an extra burst of flavor; its sweetness adds a lovely, homemade touch that everyone will love.

Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best bread for Air Fryer French Toast Sticks?
When selecting bread for your French Toast Sticks, opt for sturdy varieties like brioche or Texas toast. This type of bread holds up well when soaked in the batter and maintains its structure during cooking. If you’re going for gluten-free options, there are plenty of gluten-free breads that won’t compromise on flavor or texture.

How should I store leftover Air Fryer French Toast Sticks?
Absolutely! To keep your leftover French Toast Sticks fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This method will retain their flavor and texture, allowing you to enjoy them again soon. For longer storage, freeze them as described below!

What’s the best way to freeze Air Fryer French Toast Sticks?
For freezing, lay the cooked French Toast Sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Place them in the freezer for about 1 hour until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, reheat them straight from the freezer in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for about 5-7 minutes.

What should I do if my French Toast Sticks turn soggy?
If you find your French Toast Sticks soggy, it usually means they were over-soaked in the batter. When dipping the bread sticks, quickly coat both sides without letting them soak too long—just a few seconds will suffice. This will maintain the ideal balance of moisture and structure, ensuring they’re fluffy inside yet crispy outside when cooked.

Can I make these Air Fryer French Toast Sticks vegan or dairy-free?
Very! To make your French Toast Sticks vegan, simply substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water for each egg; let it sit until thickened) and use almond, soy, or oat milk in place of dairy milk. This way, you’ll still enjoy all the delicious flavors and satisfying textures while catering to vegan diets.

How long can I keep the uncoated bread in the fridge?
If you decide to prepare the bread in advance, I recommend storing the uncoated bread sticks in an airtight container in the fridge, where they can stay fresh for up to 1 day. Just coat them in the batter right before you’re ready to cook for the best results!