These Cinnamon French Toast Sticks are a perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the crispy edges and soft, warm center. A sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar adds an extra touch of sweetness, making them irresistible. Served with maple syrup, these golden sticks are ideal for dipping and make a great treat for breakfast or brunch.
Perfectly sized for little hands or big appetites, these French toast sticks are a fun and easy way to enjoy a classic breakfast dish. Customize with your favorite toppings, like whipped cream, fresh fruit, or even a dusting of powdered sugar for a little extra flair. Whether you’re treating yourself or serving the whole family, these sweet sticks are sure to become a weekend favorite.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 slices of thick bread (preferably day-old)
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup milk
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1 teaspoon vanilla extract
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1 tablespoon cinnamon
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2 tablespoons sugar
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2 tablespoons butter (for frying)
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Maple syrup (for serving)
Directions:
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Cut the bread slices into 1-inch strips.
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In a bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar.
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Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated.
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Heat a skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
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Fry the bread sticks in the skillet, turning until both sides are golden brown and crispy.
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Once cooked, remove from heat and sprinkle with extra cinnamon-sugar mixture.
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Serve with maple syrup for dipping.
Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes Kcal: 220 kcal | Servings: 2 servings
The Origin of French Toast and Its Evolution
French toast has been around for centuries, though its exact origin remains debated. The earliest known recipes for what we now call French toast date back to ancient Rome, where bread was soaked in milk and eggs before being fried. The dish, known as pan dulcis, was often sweetened with honey. Over time, French toast spread across Europe and was known by various names in different countries.
In France, the dish is called pain perdu, which translates to “lost bread.” The term refers to using stale or leftover bread, which would otherwise be discarded, to make a delicious meal. In the United States, French toast became a popular breakfast item, especially in the 19th and 20th centuries. Today, it is often served with a variety of toppings like syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh fruit.
The cinnamon variation of French toast sticks adds a sweet and spicy twist to this traditional dish. By incorporating cinnamon into the egg mixture and dusting the cooked sticks with cinnamon-sugar, you get a burst of flavor in every bite. This simple change elevates the dish, making it even more delicious and comforting.
Why Cinnamon French Toast Sticks Are Perfect for Breakfast
One of the best things about cinnamon French toast sticks is how easy they are to prepare. You can make them in just a few simple steps, and they cook quickly, making them an ideal choice for busy mornings. Unlike traditional French toast, which is often made by soaking entire slices of bread, the sticks can be dipped and fried individually, giving them a crispier texture and more surface area to soak up the egg mixture.
The cinnamon flavor adds a warm, aromatic element to the dish, making it feel cozy and indulgent. It’s the perfect balance of sweetness and spice, and it pairs beautifully with maple syrup, honey, or fresh fruit. Whether you enjoy them plain or with a generous drizzle of syrup, cinnamon French toast sticks are sure to satisfy your cravings.
How to Make Cinnamon French Toast Sticks: Tips and Tricks
While the recipe for cinnamon French toast sticks is simple, there are a few tips and tricks that can help ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time. One important thing to keep in mind is the type of bread you use. Thick, sturdy bread like brioche, challah, or Texas toast works best for French toast sticks because it holds up well when dipped in the egg mixture without falling apart. Stale bread is also a great option, as it absorbs the egg mixture better than fresh bread.
Another key to success is ensuring your skillet or griddle is at the right temperature. If the heat is too low, the sticks will soak up too much oil and become soggy. If the heat is too high, they may burn before cooking through. Medium heat is ideal for achieving that perfect golden-brown color and crisp texture.
For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to the egg mixture. These ingredients enhance the overall taste and complement the cinnamon perfectly. You can also customize the sweetness level by adjusting the amount of sugar in the cinnamon-sugar topping.
Serving Suggestions for Cinnamon French Toast Sticks
Cinnamon French toast sticks are incredibly versatile, so feel free to get creative with the toppings. For a classic touch, serve them with warm maple syrup for dipping. You can also try fresh fruit like strawberries, bananas, or blueberries for a burst of freshness. Whipped cream, powdered sugar, or even a scoop of vanilla ice cream can make these French toast sticks feel like a dessert.
For a healthier twist, try topping your cinnamon French toast sticks with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a drizzle of honey. This adds a creamy, tangy contrast to the sweet and spicy flavor of the cinnamon toast. You can also sprinkle some chopped nuts, like almonds or pecans, for a little crunch.
Cinnamon French toast sticks can also be paired with a variety of side dishes to make a more filling breakfast or brunch. Bacon, sausage, or scrambled eggs are all great options that complement the sweet flavor of the French toast. If you’re in the mood for something savory, you could even serve the sticks with a side of avocado or a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
Making Cinnamon French Toast Sticks Ahead of Time
One of the great things about cinnamon French toast sticks is that they can be prepared in advance. If you’re hosting a brunch or have a busy morning ahead, you can make the French toast sticks ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply cook the sticks as directed, let them cool, and then refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
To reheat, simply place the sticks on a baking sheet and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. You can also reheat them in a toaster or microwave, though the oven method will help preserve their crispiness.
Customizing Your Cinnamon French Toast Sticks
While cinnamon is the star flavor of this dish, you can easily customize it to suit your tastes. For a different twist, try using other spices like pumpkin pie spice, cardamom, or cloves in place of or in addition to the cinnamon. If you want a richer flavor, use half-and-half or heavy cream instead of milk in the egg mixture.
For a more decadent version, try adding chocolate chips or chopped nuts to the egg mixture before dipping the bread sticks. You can also experiment with different types of bread, such as cinnamon-raisin bread or banana bread, to add extra flavor to the dish.
Conclusion
Cinnamon French toast sticks are a fun and delicious breakfast treat that everyone will love. Whether you’re serving them for a weekend brunch or a quick weekday breakfast, these crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated sticks are sure to be a hit. With endless topping and customization options, you can make this dish your own and enjoy it in a variety of ways. Easy to prepare, customizable, and absolutely delicious, cinnamon French toast sticks are a must-try for any breakfast enthusiast.