Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are a delightful treat that adds a touch of sweetness to any breakfast or brunch. With their slightly firm exterior and tender, cinnamon-infused center, they are perfect for dipping into syrup or your favorite sauce. Ideal for family gatherings, weekend breakfasts, or even as a special snack, these sticks are versatile and sure to impress. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors that make this recipe stand out!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it easy to whip up on busy mornings.
• Kid-Friendly: Fun to eat and easy to dip, these sticks are a hit with children and adults alike!
• Customizable Toppings: Serve with maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream for a personalized touch.
• Flavorful Experience: The combination of cinnamon and nutmeg creates a warm and inviting flavor profile that’s hard to resist.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a large batch in advance and reheat for quick breakfasts throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks, gather the necessary tools to ensure smooth preparation.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Electric griddle or non-stick skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Electric griddle: Provides an even cooking surface and allows you to cook multiple sticks at once, speeding up the process.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl is essential for easily combining all ingredients without spills.
• Whisk: Ensures even mixing of eggs and milk, creating a smooth coating for the bread.

Ingredients

To make delicious Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Coating Mixture

• 3 large eggs
• 1 cup Silk Unsweetened Vanilla Almond Milk
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

For Cooking

• Butter (for griddle or pan)

For the Bread

• 4 slices Texas toast or thick-sliced French toast bread sliced into 1-inch wide strips

For Serving

• Maple syrup for serving (or your favorite topping)

How to Make Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

Step 1: Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Preheat your electric griddle (this takes about 10 minutes) or heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat just before you’re ready to cook. Set it aside while you prepare the batter.

Step 2: Prepare the Coating Mixture

In a large mixing bowl:
1. Combine eggs, almond milk, both types of sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
2. Whisk until all ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Butter the Griddle or Skillet

Add butter to coat the cooking surface evenly, ensuring that it is ready for frying the bread sticks.

Step 4: Dip the Bread Slices

For each slice of bread:
1. Dip it into the coating mixture for about 5 to 10 seconds.
2. Flip it over once to ensure it is well-coated but avoid over-soaking which can cause breakage.
3. Repeat this process until all slices are coated.

Step 5: Cook the French Toast Sticks

Place each coated slice on the preheated griddle:
1. Cook for about 3 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness and browning.
2. Flip and rotate them as needed to ensure even cooking on all sides.
3. Add more butter as needed during cooking.

Step 6: Serve Immediately

Once cooked, serve your Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks with maple syrup or your favorite toppings for an extra treat!

How to Serve Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are perfect for breakfast or brunch. They offer a delightful mix of flavors and textures. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

With Maple Syrup

• Drizzle warm maple syrup over the sticks for a classic sweet touch that complements the cinnamon flavor.

Fresh Fruit Medley

• Serve with a side of fresh berries, banana slices, or diced apples for a refreshing contrast and added nutrition.

Nut Butter Spread

• Spread almond or peanut butter on each stick for a nutty flavor and extra protein boost.

Whipped Cream

• Top with dollops of whipped cream for a dessert-like experience that feels indulgent yet simple.

Chocolate Sauce

• Drizzle some chocolate sauce over the sticks for those craving something sweeter and richer.

Yogurt Dip

• Pair with a creamy yogurt dip, such as vanilla or Greek yogurt, to add creaminess and tanginess.

How to Perfect Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

Making the perfect Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks is all about technique and ingredients. Follow these tips for delicious results every time.

• Use thick bread: Opt for Texas toast or thick-sliced French bread to achieve a great texture that holds up well when dipped.
• Don’t soak too long: Dip each slice quickly in the egg mixture—about 5 to 10 seconds—to prevent sogginess.
• Preheat properly: Ensure your griddle or skillet is hot before adding the bread. This helps create a nice golden crust.
• Add more butter: Keep your cooking surface well-buttered to prevent sticking and enhance flavor.
• Flip carefully: Use a spatula to gently flip the sticks without breaking them. Cook until golden brown on all sides.
• Serve immediately: Enjoy the sticks right off the griddle for the best taste and texture.

Best Side Dishes for Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

To round out your meal, consider adding some delicious side dishes. Here are some great options that pair well with Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks.

1. Fruit Salad: A mix of seasonal fruits adds freshness and balances the sweetness of the french toast.
2. Breakfast Sausages: Turkey or chicken sausage links bring protein and complement the sweet flavors nicely.
3. Hash Browns: Crispy hash browns provide a savory contrast to the sweetness of the french toast sticks.
4. Oven-Baked Bacon: Turkey bacon can offer a crunchy, salty side that pairs beautifully with breakfast dishes.
5. Scrambled Eggs: Fluffy scrambled eggs add protein and make this meal more filling.
6. Smoothie Bowl: A colorful smoothie bowl can serve as a refreshing, healthy side option filled with vitamins.
7. Cottage Cheese: A bowl of cottage cheese topped with fruit provides creaminess and pairs well with sweet flavors.
8. Granola Parfait: Layer yogurt with granola and fruits in a parfait glass for an appealing visual treat that completes breakfast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks can be simple, but there are common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Over-soaking the bread: Dipping the bread too long in the mixture can cause it to break apart. Dip each slice for only 5-10 seconds for the perfect texture.
• Not preheating the pan: Skipping this step may lead to uneven cooking. Always preheat your griddle or skillet to ensure even browning.
• Ignoring thickness of bread: Using bread that is too thin can result in a soggy texture. Stick with thick slices like Texas toast for best results.
• Using insufficient butter: Not using enough butter can cause sticking and uneven cooking. Generously grease your cooking surface for optimal results.
• Skipping spices: Omitting cinnamon or nutmeg will dull the flavor. Always use spices to enhance the taste of your French toast sticks.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Use an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Freezing Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

• Duration: Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Place them in a single layer in a freezer-safe bag or container to prevent sticking.

Reheating Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 30-45 seconds, checking frequently to avoid sogginess.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over low heat with a little butter, turning until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks:

Can I use different types of bread?

Yes! While Texas toast works best, you can use any thick-sliced bread such as challah or brioche.

How do I make my own cinnamon sugar?

Mix equal parts granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Adjust according to your taste preference.

Can I add other flavors?

Absolutely! Try adding vanilla extract or almond extract for an extra flavor boost.

What toppings go well with Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks?

Maple syrup is classic, but you can also use fresh fruit, whipped cream, or yogurt for added variety.

Can these be made ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare and cook them ahead of time and then reheat as needed.

Final Thoughts

These Cinnamon Sugar French Toast Sticks are a delightful breakfast treat that offers both flavor and texture. Easy to customize with various toppings and flavors, they are perfect for any morning gathering. Give them a try, and enjoy this delicious twist on a classic breakfast dish!