There are some recipes that feel like a warm hug from childhood, and these Cinnamon French Toast Sticks are exactly that. Golden, buttery, softly crisp on the outside, and coated in cinnamon sugar… they taste like something you’d find on a cozy weekend morning when time slows down and the kitchen smells like comfort.
I still remember the first time I made French toast sticks instead of traditional slices. It wasn’t planned at all. I had leftover bread, a sleepy morning, and a craving for something sweet but simple. I cut the bread into strips on instinct, dipped them into a cinnamon-vanilla egg mixture, and pan-fried them until golden. The result? Pure magic. Crunchy edges, custardy centers, and that irresistible cinnamon sugar finish.
Now, these easy cinnamon French toast sticks have become a regular in my kitchen—especially when I want something quick for breakfast, brunch, or even a sweet snack in the afternoon. They’re kid-friendly, freezer-friendly, and honestly… dangerously addictive.
Whether you’re making them for a cozy Sunday breakfast, meal prep for busy mornings, or a fun family brunch, this recipe always delivers that “wow” moment with minimal effort.
Why You’ll Love This Cinnamon French Toast Sticks Recipe
Perfectly crispy outside, soft inside
The contrast in texture is everything. Each bite has a golden crunch followed by a soft, custardy center.
Quick and easy breakfast recipe
You only need a few pantry ingredients and about 20 minutes from start to finish.
Kid-friendly and freezer-friendly
These are perfect for little hands, lunchboxes, or busy mornings when you need something ready fast.
Tastes like a bakery-style treat at home
The cinnamon sugar coating makes them taste like something from a café or brunch spot.
Customizable with endless toppings
Add syrup, chocolate dip, fruit, whipped cream, or even peanut butter.
Perfect for meal prep mornings
Make a big batch, freeze them, and reheat throughout the week for stress-free breakfasts.
Ingredient Notes & Details
Bread (thick sliced preferred)
Use brioche, challah, or Texas toast for the best results. Slightly stale bread works even better because it absorbs the custard without falling apart. Fresh bread can be used, but it may be softer inside.
Eggs
Eggs are the base of the custard mixture. They give structure and that classic French toast richness.
Milk
Whole milk gives the creamiest texture, but you can also use almond milk, oat milk, or any dairy-free alternative.
Sugar
A touch of granulated sugar in the egg mixture enhances the sweetness and helps with caramelization.
Vanilla extract
This is what gives that warm bakery aroma. Don’t skip it—it makes a huge difference.
Ground cinnamon
The star of the recipe. Use high-quality cinnamon for the most aromatic flavor.
Butter (for cooking)
Butter gives the French toast sticks that golden, slightly crispy exterior and rich flavor.
Cinnamon sugar coating
A simple mix of sugar and cinnamon that transforms these into irresistible sweet sticks.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the bread
Start by slicing your bread into thick strips, about 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Try to keep them even so they cook uniformly. Slightly dry or day-old bread works best because it holds the custard without becoming soggy.
Step 2: Make the custard mixture
In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and fully combined. The mixture should be creamy and lightly fragrant.
Step 3: Dip the bread sticks
Dip each bread stick into the custard mixture, allowing it to soak for a few seconds on each side. Don’t over-soak or they may become too soft and break apart.
Step 4: Heat the pan
Place a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add butter and let it melt completely until slightly foamy but not browned.
Step 5: Cook until golden
Place the soaked bread sticks onto the hot pan. Cook for about 2–3 minutes per side, or until each side is golden brown and slightly crispy. You’re looking for a caramelized exterior with a soft, fluffy center.
Step 6: Coat in cinnamon sugar
While still warm, roll each French toast stick in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar. The heat helps the coating stick perfectly, creating that signature sweet crust.
Step 7: Serve immediately
Serve warm with maple syrup, honey, or your favorite dipping sauces. They are best enjoyed fresh off the pan when they’re still slightly crispy.
FAQ for Cinnamon French Toast Sticks
Can I bake cinnamon French toast sticks instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake them at 375°F (190°C) for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
Can I make French toast sticks ahead of time?
Absolutely. They store very well in the fridge or freezer and reheat beautifully.
Why are my French toast sticks soggy?
This usually happens if the bread is too fresh or soaked too long in the custard mixture.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply substitute milk with almond, soy, or oat milk and use dairy-free butter.
What’s the best bread for French toast sticks?
Brioche and challah are the best choices because they are rich, soft, and slightly sweet.
How do I keep them crispy after cooking?
Place them on a wire rack instead of stacking them on a plate to avoid steam softening the crust.
Storage Tips
Refrigeration
Store cooked French toast sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat before serving for best texture.
Freezing
Place cooled sticks on a baking sheet, freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They last up to 2 months and reheat perfectly.
Reheating
Reheat in a toaster oven, air fryer, or regular oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–8 minutes. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep them crispy.
Variations
Stuffed French Toast Sticks
Add a thin layer of cream cheese or Nutella between two bread slices before cutting into sticks for a gooey surprise center.
Baked Cinnamon French Toast Sticks
Skip frying and bake for a lighter, less oily version that still tastes delicious.
Cinnamon Sugar Air Fryer Version
Air fry at 370°F for about 8–10 minutes for extra crispiness with less butter.
Chocolate Chip French Toast Sticks
Sprinkle mini chocolate chips onto the bread before dipping for a sweet twist.
Pumpkin Spice French Toast Sticks
Add pumpkin spice instead of cinnamon for a fall-inspired breakfast version.
Savory-Sweet Version
Skip the sugar coating and serve with maple syrup and crispy bacon for a balanced sweet-savory brunch plate.
What to Serve with Cinnamon French Toast Sticks
Classic Syrups & Sauces
Maple syrup, honey, chocolate sauce, or caramel sauce for dipping.
Fresh Fruits
Strawberries, blueberries, bananas, or raspberries add freshness and balance the sweetness.
Creamy Add-ons
Whipped cream, Greek yogurt, or mascarpone for a richer brunch experience.
Breakfast Sides
Scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, or breakfast sausage for a full hearty meal.
Drinks to Pair With
Coffee, chai latte, hot chocolate, or fresh orange juice complement the warm cinnamon flavors perfectly.
Cinnamon French Toast Sticks
Ingredients
Bread
- 6 slices thick bread brioche or sandwich bread, cut into sticks
Egg Mixture
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk
- 2 tbsp sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- ¼ cup granulated sugar
- 1 tsp cinnamon
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp butter for pan-frying
Instructions
- Prepare the bread
- Cut each slice of bread into 3–4 thick sticks.
- Set aside on a tray.
- Make the custard mixture
- In a bowl, whisk together:
- eggs
- milk
- sugar
- vanilla
- cinnamon
- salt
- Mix until smooth and well combined.
- Dip the bread
- Quickly dip each bread stick into the egg mixture.
- Let excess drip off (don’t soak too long or it will get soggy).
- Cook the sticks
- Heat a pan over medium heat and melt butter.
- Cook sticks in batches for 2–3 minutes per side, until golden and slightly crisp.
- Coat with cinnamon sugar
- Mix sugar + cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Roll warm sticks in the mixture until fully coated.
- Serve
- Serve warm with syrup, honey, or yogurt dip.
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