Easy Cinnamon Toast Sticks

This hearty Cinnamon French Toast Sticks recipe transforms ordinary breakfast into a delightful finger food experience that both kids and adults will enjoy. The perfect balance of custard-soaked bread with warm cinnamon creates breakfast magic that's both convenient and crowd-pleasing.

I first created these cinnamon sticks when hosting a brunch for my nieces and nephews. Watching their excitement as they dunked the crispy sticks into maple syrup convinced me this would become a staple in our family gatherings. Now it's the most requested breakfast whenever we have overnight guests.

Ingredients

• Texas toast: Eight thick slices provide the perfect sturdy base. Look for bread labeled "extra thick" if Texas toast isn't available.
• Eggs: Four large eggs create the protein-rich foundation for our custard mixture.
• Heavy cream: The fat content creates a luxuriously rich custard coating. Choose the freshest cream available.
• Cinnamon: Two and a half teaspoons add that signature warm spice. Always use fresh cinnamon for the best flavor.
• Sugar: Just a tablespoon provides subtle sweetness without overwhelming the palate.
• Vanilla extract: Use pure vanilla extract for the most authentic flavor.
• Unsalted butter: For cooking provides rich flavor and perfect golden exterior.
• Maple syrup: Real maple syrup makes all the difference for dipping. Avoid pancake syrups with artificial ingredients.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the bread:

Cut each slice of Texas toast into four even sticks. Make clean, decisive cuts to ensure even cooking. The sturdy texture of Texas toast helps maintain the stick shape through the soaking and cooking process.

Create the custard:

In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, heavy cream, cinnamon, sugar, and vanilla until completely combined. The mixture should be smooth with no visible egg streaks. This custard base will infuse flavor throughout each bread stick.

Soak the bread:

Dip each piece of bread into the custard mixture, turning gently to coat all sides. Allow the bread to soak for about 10 seconds per side. The bread should feel heavy with custard but not falling apart. Place soaked pieces on a large plate without overcrowding.

Cook to golden perfection:

Heat a large sauté pan over medium heat and add 2 to 3 tablespoons of butter. Once butter is melted and bubbling slightly but not brown, place several coated sticks in a single layer. Cook approximately 2 minutes per side until golden brown with slightly crisp edges but still tender inside.

Serve immediately:

Transfer cooked sticks to a serving plate and serve with warm maple syrup for dipping. The contrast between the crispy exterior and custardy interior is best enjoyed fresh from the pan.

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My favorite part of this recipe is watching people's expressions when they take that first bite. There's something magical about the contrast between the crispy exterior and the custardy inside that makes everyone smile. My husband claims these sticks saved our Sunday mornings because they keep our kids happily occupied at the table while we enjoy our coffee.

Bread Selection Matters

The success of these French toast sticks largely depends on your bread choice. Day-old bread works significantly better than fresh because it has less moisture, allowing it to absorb more of the flavorful custard without falling apart. If you only have fresh bread, you can dry it out slightly by leaving slices on the counter overnight or toasting them at a very low temperature for a few minutes. The crust provides structural support for the sticks, so avoid removing it. If Texas toast isn't available, brioche or challah make excellent alternatives, though you'll need to be extra gentle when handling.

Storage and Reheating

These French toast sticks make excellent leftovers and can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results when reheating refrigerated sticks, place them on a baking sheet in a 350°F oven for about 5 minutes until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid microwaving if possible as it tends to make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze completely cooled sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag. They'll keep wonderfully for up to two months and can be reheated directly from frozen in a toaster oven, conventional oven, or air fryer for a quick breakfast solution.

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Flavor Variations

While the classic cinnamon version is always a hit, these French toast sticks welcome creative variations. Try adding a quarter teaspoon of nutmeg or cardamom to the custard mixture for a more complex spice profile. For a festive holiday version, incorporate orange zest and a dash of cloves. You can also create a cocoa version by adding two tablespoons of unsweetened cocoa powder to the custard. After cooking, consider rolling the warm sticks in a mixture of cinnamon sugar for an extra sweet crunch. My family loves when I set up a dipping bar with various options beyond maple syrup, including chocolate sauce, fruit compote, or whipped cream.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of bread is best?

Thick-cut Texas toast or crusty bread works best as it holds its shape and soaks up custard without becoming soggy.

→ Can I use another type of milk?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with whole milk, almond milk, or coconut milk, but the texture may vary slightly.

→ How do I freeze the toast sticks?

Once cooked and cooled, freeze them on a baking sheet until solid. Store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 1-2 months.

→ What’s the best way to reheat frozen toast sticks?

Use a toaster oven or air fryer for the crispiest results. Alternatively, reheat in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes.

→ Can I prepare the batter ahead of time?

Yes, you can whisk the egg mixture a day in advance and store it covered in the fridge. Stir before using.