These Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are everything you love about classic French toast—just crispier, quicker, and a little more fun to eat. By using thick-cut bread and your trusty air fryer, you can enjoy this sweet breakfast treat without turning on the stove. Perfectly golden and rolled in a spiced sugar blend, these are seriously snackable.
Whether you’re prepping a weekend brunch spread or just need a cozy weekday breakfast, these French toast sticks are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Kids love them, adults devour them, and best of all—they’re ready in 20 minutes flat. Serve them with warm maple syrup, a dollop of whipped cream, or even dunk them in chocolate sauce for an extra indulgent twist.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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6 slices of thick bread (like Texas toast or brioche), cut into thirds
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2 large eggs
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1/2 cup whole milk
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1 tsp vanilla extract
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1 tsp ground cinnamon
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1 tbsp sugar
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Pinch of salt
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1/2 cup granulated sugar (for coating)
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1 tsp ground cinnamon (for coating)
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Cooking spray or melted butter (for brushing)
Directions:
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In a shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, sugar, and a pinch of salt.
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Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, coating well but not soaking.
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Lightly grease the air fryer basket with cooking spray or brush with melted butter.
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Place the coated sticks in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they don’t overlap.
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Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crisp.
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In a separate bowl, mix the 1/2 cup granulated sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon for the coating.
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Once the sticks are done, immediately roll them in the cinnamon sugar mixture while still warm.
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Serve with maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh berries if desired.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes
Kcal: 210 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Introduction: Why Everyone Loves French Toast Sticks
French toast sticks are more than just a nostalgic breakfast treat—they’re the perfect combination of crispy edges, fluffy centers, and just the right amount of sweetness. When dusted in cinnamon sugar and served warm, they evoke cozy memories of weekend mornings, lazy brunches, and childhood comfort. This Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks recipe captures all of that homey goodness but gives it a modern twist—without the mess or oil of traditional frying.
Using an air fryer revolutionizes how we enjoy this beloved breakfast. It’s quicker, cleaner, and healthier, without compromising on texture or flavor. Whether you’re whipping them up for your kids, hosting a brunch, or simply treating yourself to a sweet morning pick-me-up, these sticks are a surefire hit. The golden, crunchy exterior and soft, custardy inside make every bite irresistibly delicious.
Why Use the Air Fryer?
The air fryer has changed the way we approach breakfast cooking. It allows us to achieve crispiness without deep-frying, significantly cutting down on oil and saturated fats. This makes recipes like French toast sticks not only easier to prepare but also healthier overall.
With minimal cleanup and faster cooking times, the air fryer is perfect for busy mornings when you want something satisfying without spending 30 minutes at the stove. In just 10 minutes, these cinnamon sugar sticks are cooked to golden perfection. They’re a game-changer for parents, meal preppers, and anyone who wants big flavor in less time.
The Perfect Bread Matters
When making French toast sticks, the type of bread you use plays a huge role in the outcome. Thin sandwich bread tends to fall apart during dipping or cooking, so it’s best to use thick, sturdy slices like Texas toast, brioche, or challah. These breads soak up the custard-like egg mixture without becoming soggy and maintain their shape while air frying.
Brioche and challah bring an added richness to the dish, while Texas toast offers that classic diner-style French toast feel. The thickness of the bread also helps balance the crispy outer layer with the soft, fluffy interior. Whichever type you choose, make sure it’s slightly stale or day-old—this helps prevent sogginess and gives your French toast that perfect texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Magic
The real secret to making these French toast sticks so addictive is the cinnamon sugar coating. Once the sticks come out of the air fryer, they’re immediately rolled in a mixture of cinnamon and sugar while still hot. This step creates a slightly crunchy, caramelized coating that adds an irresistible layer of flavor and texture.
It’s important to do this step while the sticks are warm so that the sugar adheres properly. You can adjust the cinnamon-to-sugar ratio to your liking—some prefer a strong spice kick, while others might enjoy a milder sweetness. Either way, this simple combination transforms the toast sticks from good to unforgettable.
Fun Ways to Serve
One of the best things about French toast sticks is their versatility. You can serve them as-is with a dusting of powdered sugar, or pair them with your favorite toppings and dips. Maple syrup is a classic, but consider adding variety with whipped cream, fruit compotes, Greek yogurt, or even chocolate ganache.
They’re also great for breakfast boards, brunch spreads, or school-day breakfasts. If you’re hosting guests, serve them upright in mason jars or line them up on a platter with dipping sauces for a fun, interactive brunch station. For a kid-friendly option, add a sprinkle of rainbow sprinkles or serve with mini skewers.
Make-Ahead and Freezer Friendly
These French toast sticks are ideal for meal prepping or making in batches. You can easily double the recipe, cook them in the air fryer, and freeze for later. Once cooled, lay the sticks flat on a baking sheet to flash-freeze them, then transfer to a zip-top bag or airtight container.
When you’re ready to reheat, simply pop them back in the air fryer for a few minutes until hot and crispy. This makes them perfect for busy weekday mornings when you want a homemade breakfast but don’t have the time to start from scratch.
You can even prepare the egg mixture the night before and store it in the fridge to save a step the next morning. If you’re meal planning for the week, this recipe is a lifesaver.
Great for Kids and Families
Cinnamon sugar French toast sticks are a hit with both kids and adults. Their handheld shape makes them perfect for little hands, and they’re fun to dip, which adds an interactive element to breakfast time.
If you’re looking to sneak in a few more nutrients, consider using whole grain bread or serving with fresh fruit on the side. You can also reduce the sugar slightly if you’re aiming for a less sweet option while still maintaining that warm, cinnamon flavor that makes this dish so comforting.
Because they’re customizable, these French toast sticks can be made to suit a variety of dietary preferences and needs, whether you’re aiming for dairy-free, vegetarian, or lower sugar options.
Flavor Variations to Try
Once you’ve mastered the base recipe, try switching things up! Add a touch of nutmeg or cardamom to the egg mixture for a spiced twist, or stir in a tablespoon of maple syrup or honey for added sweetness.
If you’re feeling indulgent, try a stuffed version by spreading Nutella, cream cheese, or fruit preserves between two slices of bread before cutting and dipping. Another fun variation is to coat the finished sticks in crushed cereal or graham cracker crumbs for a crunchy upgrade.
For a holiday spin, add pumpkin spice to the egg mixture in the fall, or a dash of peppermint extract around Christmas. The possibilities are endless once you start experimenting.
Nutritional Profile and Healthier Adjustments
French toast sticks may seem like an indulgent treat, but with a few adjustments, they can be a relatively healthy breakfast option. Using the air fryer already eliminates the need for excessive oil, which cuts down on unnecessary fat.
To make it healthier, opt for whole grain bread, use low-fat milk or a dairy-free alternative, and reduce the sugar content in the coating or egg mixture. You can also serve them with fresh fruit and skip the syrup if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Each serving is filling and packed with protein from the eggs, while also providing some carbs to fuel your morning. With portion control and thoughtful toppings, this dish can easily fit into a balanced meal plan.
The Rise of Air Fryer Breakfasts
More and more people are turning to air fryers for breakfast because of the convenience, speed, and health benefits. From crispy bacon and hash browns to egg bites and now French toast sticks, air fryer breakfasts are changing the game.
This appliance has proven to be an essential kitchen tool for families, college students, and busy professionals. It allows for hands-off cooking, less mess, and consistently delicious results. This French toast stick recipe is just one example of how the air fryer can transform traditional recipes into something quicker, cleaner, and even better.
Conclusion
Air Fryer Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks check every box—they’re quick, easy, comforting, and absolutely delicious. Whether you’re serving them up for kids before school, impressing guests at brunch, or treating yourself on a lazy Sunday morning, they deliver warm, nostalgic flavor with a crisp modern edge.
With just a few pantry staples and 20 minutes, you can create a breakfast that feels like a special occasion. The air fryer not only speeds up the process but elevates the texture to perfection. Make a double batch, freeze some for later, and enjoy this cozy classic any day of the week.
There’s nothing quite like the smell of cinnamon sugar floating through the kitchen as you pull these golden sticks from the air fryer. Try them once, and they’re bound to become a permanent fixture in your breakfast rotation.