Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe

I’m so excited to share my favorite Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe with you! These are perfect when you want that classic comfort breakfast but without the hassle of frying up a mess on the stove. What’s great is how quick and easy the air fryer makes the whole process—I honestly can’t go back to the old method. You get crispy, golden outside sticks with soft, custardy insides, and the air fryer does it all with less oil, so it feels a bit lighter but just as delicious.

These sticks work like a charm for busy mornings when you want something fun and kid-friendly to start the day, or even for a weekend brunch that’s easy but feels homemade. I’ve made them so many times, and I love how you can easily customize the flavors or dip them in whatever sauce you prefer. Trust me, once you try this Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe, you’ll think of breakfast differently!

this …

Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe are simple but thoughtfully chosen to create the perfect balance of sweetness, spice, and texture. Using thick-cut bread helps the sticks hold up in the air fryer and soak up the egg mixture without getting soggy.

• Thick-Cut Bread: I like using Texas toast or brioche because they’re sturdy and add a rich flavor.
• Eggs: They create the custardy coating that makes french toast so irresistible.
• Milk (or Cream): Adds moisture and richness; whole milk or half-and-half works best for creaminess.
• Cinnamon: A classic spice that warms up the flavor beautifully without overpowering.
• Vanilla Extract: Brings a subtle sweetness and depth to the custard mix.
• Sugar: Just a touch to balance the spices and make the crust caramelize nicely in the air fryer.
• Butter (optional): Consider brushing lightly on the sticks post-air fry for extra richness, if you like.

Tweak to Your Taste

I love that this Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe is so flexible — I often add a sprinkle of nutmeg or a pinch of pumpkin pie spice in fall, and sometimes swap vanilla for almond extract when I want a new flavor twist. Feel free to get creative and adjust the sweetness or spices to suit your family’s preferences!

• Chocolate Delight: Add mini chocolate chips to the egg mixture or sprinkle on top for a sweet treat my kids go crazy for.
• Gluten-Free Variation: Use gluten-free bread to make the recipe allergy-friendly without losing texture.
• Lower Sugar: Cut back on sugar and add a little honey or maple syrup drizzle after air frying for natural sweetness.
• Seasonal Twist: Mix in citrus zest or fresh berries on the side to brighten the flavors in warmer months.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Custard Mixture

First, whisk together your eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sugar in a shallow bowl. I always give it a good whisk so the ingredients are fully combined and the sugar starts to dissolve. This helps the sticks absorb the flavors evenly and gives that perfect custard texture inside.

Step 2: Cut and Soak the Bread

Slice your thick-cut bread into sticks about an inch wide. Dip each stick into the egg mixture, making sure to coat all sides but don’t leave it soaking too long—or it’ll get soggy and fall apart. I usually soak them for about 15 seconds per side, which is just right to get a juicy but sturdy finish.

Step 3: Air Fry to Golden Perfection

Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Place the soaked sticks in a single layer in the basket—don’t overcrowd them, or they won’t crisp up. Air fry for about 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy on the edges. Keep an eye on them the first time you try this so you can adjust time based on your air fryer model.

Step 4: Serve & Enjoy

Once out of the air fryer, you can melt a little butter on them or sprinkle some powdered sugar. I love serving these with warm maple syrup or a berry compote. You’re all set for a delicious breakfast that looks and tastes like you spent way more time on it!

How to Serve Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe

Garnishes

I usually dust mine with a little powdered sugar right after they come out of the air fryer—it gives that bakery touch and looks so pretty. Fresh berries on the side are a favorite here too, and sometimes a drizzle of honey or a shake of cinnamon sugar if I want extra sweetness without syrup.

Side Dishes

These French Toast Sticks pair wonderfully with crispy bacon or breakfast sausage and a side of fresh fruit salad. I love adding Greek yogurt on the side for a creamy, tangy contrast that balances the sweet richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun brunch, I arranged the sticks upright in a mason jar filled with syrup or yogurt for dipping—it’s like edible cutlery! And once, I rolled them in cinnamon sugar after cooking and paired them with a warm caramel sauce for a decadent treat that’ll wow guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you do have leftovers (rare, I know!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. I’ve found layering parchment paper between sticks prevents sticking and keeps them from turning mushy.

Freezing

Freezing works well too! After air frying, let the sticks cool completely, then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. This method stopped the sticks from sticking together and makes reheating a breeze.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that crunch—it generally makes them soggy. The air fryer really shines at bringing these sticks back to life!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Honestly, this Air Fryer French Toast Sticks Recipe has changed my breakfast game. It’s so simple, quick, and less messy, and the kids love helping me dip the sticks and pick out their favorite toppings. If you want a breakfast that’s both comforting and easy, I really hope you try making these—once you taste that crispy, tender goodness, you’ll be hooked just like me. Trust me, it’s worth making on any morning that calls for a little extra cozy in your kitchen.

Print