Crunchy French Toast Sticks

If you’re on the hunt for a breakfast treat that’s both fun to eat and irresistibly crunchy, these Crunchy French Toast Sticks are exactly what you need. Perfect for dipping into syrup, drizzled with honey, or enjoyed on their own, they bring a playful twist to the classic French toast. Made with simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is ideal for busy mornings, brunch parties, or even a cozy weekend breakfast with the family. The secret to their incredible crunch lies in a crispy coating that locks in the soft, custardy center. Whether you’re serving them to kids or treating yourself, these sticks are sure to become a new favorite in your breakfast rotation.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

French toast sticks take everything you love about traditional French toast and make it portable, snackable, and extra crunchy. Unlike regular French toast, these sticks have a delightful crispy exterior that adds texture and flavor with every bite. Plus, they’re incredibly versatile and easy to customize with your favorite spices or toppings. The recipe uses simple pantry staples, and the method is straightforward enough for beginners, yet yields restaurant-quality results. If you love dipping your breakfast into syrup or prefer foods you can eat with your hands, these crunchy sticks are a dream come true. They also freeze beautifully, making them a convenient option for make-ahead breakfasts.

Ingredients

• 4 slices of thick-cut bread (white or whole wheat works best)
• 3 large eggs
• 1/2 cup milk (use any variety such as whole, almond, or oat)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 cup cornflakes or crushed cornflakes (for the crunchy coating)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter or vegetable oil (for frying)
• Maple syrup or honey, for serving

How To Make Crunchy French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Start by cutting each slice of bread into 3 or 4 evenly sized sticks, roughly the thickness of a finger. Using thick-cut bread ensures the sticks hold up well without becoming soggy.

Step 2: Make the Custard Batter

In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt. Make sure the mixture is well combined and smooth.

Step 3: Prepare the Crunchy Coating

Place the cornflakes in a separate shallow dish. Using your hands or a rolling pin, gently crush the cornflakes into smaller pieces but not too fine—you want them to stay crunchy.

Step 4: Dip the Bread Sticks

Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds so the bread absorbs the custard but does not become overly soggy. Then immediately roll or press the soaked bread stick into the crushed cornflakes, ensuring all sides are coated well.

Step 5: Cook the French Toast Sticks

Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium heat and add the butter or oil. Once hot, place the coated sticks in the pan, cooking in batches if needed. Fry the sticks for about 2-3 minutes per side, turning carefully with tongs or a spatula, until they are golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Remove the sticks from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with a side of maple syrup, honey, or your favorite dipping sauce.

Expert Tips

• Use day-old bread or slightly stale bread for best results; it soaks up the custard better without falling apart.
• Don’t skip crushing the cornflakes—large pieces provide the best crunch, but if too big, they might fall off during cooking.
• Heat the pan properly before frying to ensure a crispy, golden crust forms quickly without absorbing too much oil.
• For extra flavor, add a pinch of nutmeg or a dash of cardamom to the custard batter.
• Cook in small batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can cause steaming instead of frying.
• If you want to make these ahead, freeze the cooked sticks on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven for a crispy finish.

Variations and Customizations

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread and gluten-free cornflakes to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
• Vegan: Substitute eggs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 3 tablespoons water) and use plant-based milk and vegan butter or oil.
• Flavored Coatings: Mix crushed nuts like almonds or pecans with the cornflakes for a nutty twist.
• Sweet Toppings: Sprinkle powdered sugar, drizzle with chocolate sauce, or add fresh berries on top for extra indulgence.
• Spiced Batter: Experiment with spices such as pumpkin pie spice, ginger, or allspice to suit the season or your mood.

How to Store Leftovers

If you have leftover French toast sticks, allow them to cool completely before storing. Place the sticks in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5-7 minutes to restore their crunch. Avoid microwaving as it can make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze the sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat directly from frozen in the oven for best texture.

FAQ

Can I use regular cereal instead of cornflakes for the coating?

Yes! You can substitute cornflakes with other cereals like crushed Rice Krispies or bran flakes. Just make sure to crush them into smaller pieces to get that perfect crunchy coating.

What type of bread is best for French toast sticks?

Thick-cut bread such as Texas toast, brioche, or challah works best because it holds up well when dipped in the custard and fried. Day-old or slightly stale bread is ideal as it absorbs the mixture without becoming mushy.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the coated sticks on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through. Baking results in a slightly less crispy texture but is a great healthier alternative.

How do I prevent the coating from falling off during cooking?

Make sure to press the crushed cornflakes firmly onto the soaked bread sticks before frying. Using a shallow soaking time prevents the bread from becoming too soggy, which helps the coating adhere better. Also, avoid flipping the sticks too often while cooking to keep the coating intact.

Conclusion

Crunchy French Toast Sticks are a delightful breakfast upgrade that combines the best of textures and flavors. With a crisp cornflake crust and a soft, custardy center, they’re perfect for dipping and sharing. Simple to make and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to bring smiles to your breakfast table. Whether you’re feeding little ones or treating yourself to a special morning, these French toast sticks deliver comfort and crunch in every bite. Give them a try—you might just find your new favorite way to enjoy a classic breakfast!