Start your day with a twist on a classic breakfast! Oven Baked French Toast Sticks are quick, easy, and oh-so-delicious. In just a few simple steps, you can whip up this fun dish that kids and adults will love. With a crispy outside and soft center, these sticks pair perfectly with syrup or fruit. Dive into this easy recipe and bring a tasty adventure to your table!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 6 slices of thick bread (like brioche or challah)
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Flavor Enhancements
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted butter
Toppings
– 1/4 cup additional sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– Maple syrup for serving (optional)
For the main ingredients, I love using thick bread like brioche or challah. They soak up the egg mixture well and give a soft texture. You will need three large eggs and one cup of milk to create a rich custard base. Don’t forget the vanilla extract; it adds a lovely aroma and flavor!
Next, we have our flavor enhancements. A teaspoon of cinnamon gives warmth and spice. The sugar balances the flavors, and the salt enhances the taste. Melted butter is key for that golden, crisp finish.
For toppings, mix extra sugar with cinnamon for a sweet crust. Maple syrup makes a perfect dip. The combination of these ingredients creates a delightful treat. You can find the full recipe for more details and tips!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This helps the French toast sticks cook evenly.
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This makes cleanup easy and prevents sticking.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, 1 cup of milk, 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. Mix well until smooth.
Assembling French Toast Sticks
1. Take 6 slices of thick bread, like brioche or challah, and cut each slice into 4 equal strips. This makes them easy to handle.
2. Dip each bread strip into the egg mixture. Make sure each piece gets fully coated. Gently shake off any extra mixture.
Baking Process
1. Place the coated sticks on the prepared baking sheet. Make sure to space them evenly apart for even cooking.
2. Brush the tops of the bread sticks with 1/4 cup of melted butter. This adds great flavor and helps them get crispy.
3. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture over the top of the sticks. Use about 1/4 cup of sugar mixed with 1 teaspoon of cinnamon for a sweet touch.
4. Bake in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes. Flip them halfway through baking for a nice, even golden brown and crispy finish.
Enjoy your delicious oven-baked French toast sticks! For the full recipe, check out the details provided earlier.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving the Perfect Texture
To make the best oven-baked French toast sticks, use thick bread. Bread like brioche or challah gives a soft inside and crispy outside. Thin bread can become soggy and lose its charm.
For even cooking, cut the bread into uniform strips. This way, they cook at the same rate. Keep the bread sticks spaced apart on the baking sheet. This helps hot air circulate, ensuring they brown well.
Serving Suggestions
You can top your French toast sticks in many ways. Try maple syrup for a sweet dipping sauce. Dusting with powdered sugar adds a nice touch too.
Fruits like berries or banana slices pair well. They add color and nutrition. You might even try yogurt or whipped cream for a fun twist.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is over-soaking the bread. If the bread sits too long in the egg mixture, it can fall apart. Just a quick dip is enough.
Another mistake is not preheating the oven. If the oven isn’t hot enough, the sticks won’t crisp up. Always preheat to 400°F (200°C) before baking. Following these tips will ensure that your oven-baked French toast sticks turn out perfectly every time. For the full recipe, check out the earlier section.
Variations
Flavor Variations
You can easily switch up the flavor of your oven baked French toast sticks. A few drops of vanilla or almond extract can add a special touch. If you want something sweeter, mix in some chocolate chips or fresh fruits like berries or bananas. These additions not only make them taste great, but they also look fun and colorful!
Dietary Substitutions
If you need gluten-free options, use gluten-free bread. This works just as well and keeps the recipe tasty. For those who want a dairy-free version, almond milk or oat milk can replace regular milk. These swaps ensure everyone enjoys this dish without missing out.
Theme Ideas
You can make your French toast sticks fit any occasion. For the holidays, try pumpkin spice for a festive twist. Add cinnamon, nutmeg, and pumpkin puree for rich flavors. If you want something savory, mix in cheese and herbs like rosemary or thyme. This creates a fun snack that surprises your taste buds!
Check out the Full Recipe for more details on how to make these tasty sticks.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your leftover French toast sticks, let them cool first. This helps avoid moisture buildup. Next, place them in an airtight container. It keeps them fresh longer. Store the container in the fridge. Your sticks will stay good for about three days. For best taste, eat them within two days.
Reheating Instructions
When it comes to reheating, you have two great options: the oven and the microwave. The oven gives a nice crispy texture. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the sticks on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes. The microwave is faster but can make them soft. Heat for 20-30 seconds. Check if they are warm enough.
Freezing Options
If you want to keep your French toast sticks longer, freezing is a smart choice. First, let them cool completely. Then, place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. After that, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer.
To reheat frozen sticks, use the oven for the best results. Preheat to 375°F (190°C). Bake for about 15-20 minutes. If you use the microwave, heat for 1-2 minutes. Always check if they are hot all the way through.
FAQs
How do I make oven-baked French toast sticks crispy?
To get crispy French toast sticks, use thick bread like brioche or challah. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Brush the sticks with melted butter before baking. This adds flavor and helps them crisp up. Bake them for 12-15 minutes and flip halfway through. This ensures even cooking and a nice crunch on all sides.
Can these French toast sticks be made ahead of time?
Yes, you can make these French toast sticks ahead of time. Prepare them as directed but do not bake. Place them in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake them straight from the fridge. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time to ensure they heat through.
What type of bread is best for French toast sticks?
The best bread for French toast sticks is thick, soft bread. Brioche and challah are my favorites because they soak up the egg mixture well. You can also experiment with sourdough or Texas toast for a different taste. Just remember, the thicker the bread, the better the texture.
Can I make a smaller or larger batch?
Absolutely! You can adjust the ingredient amounts based on how many sticks you want. To make a smaller batch, cut the recipe in half. For a larger batch, simply double the ingredients. Just be sure to maintain the same cooking times and temperatures for best results.
For the full recipe, check out the Cinnamon Sugar Oven Baked French Toast Sticks section above!
You learned how to make delicious oven-baked French toast sticks. We covered key ingredients, like thick bread and eggs. You also discovered simple steps for making them crispy and tasty. Don’t forget about fun flavor variations and helpful tips to avoid common mistakes.
In the end, enjoy experimenting with different ingredients and toppings. With practice, you can make these treats perfect every time. Happy cooking!
