Cinnamon French Toast Sticks: A Delicious and Easy Breakfast Recipe

Cinnamon French Toast Sticks are a delightful twist on a classic breakfast favorite, transforming the traditional French toast into a fun and convenient finger food. Perfect for busy mornings or leisurely brunches, these sticks are not only easy to prepare but also offer a warm, comforting taste that evokes memories of cozy family gatherings. The rich aroma of cinnamon wafting through your kitchen is sure to entice everyone to the table.

Originating from the need to use up stale bread, French toast has a long history that dates back to ancient times. However, the innovation of turning it into Cinnamon French Toast Sticks has made it a beloved dish for both kids and adults alike. The combination of crispy edges and a soft, custardy center, enhanced by the sweet and spicy notes of cinnamon, creates a texture and flavor profile that is simply irresistible. Whether served with maple syrup for dipping or enjoyed on their own, these sticks are a convenient and delicious way to start your day.

Ingredients:

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 8 slices of thick bread (such as brioche or Texas toast)
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
• Maple syrup (for serving)
• Powdered sugar (optional, for dusting)

Preparing the Batter

1. In a large mixing bowl, crack the 4 large eggs and whisk them until they are well beaten.
2. Add 1 cup of milk to the eggs. You can use whole milk for a richer flavor or 2% milk for a lighter option. Whisk together until fully combined.
3. Incorporate 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract into the mixture. This will add a lovely aroma and flavor to your French toast sticks.
4. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. The cinnamon will give the French toast its signature flavor, while the salt enhances the overall taste. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and all ingredients are well blended.

Preparing the Bread

1. Take 8 slices of thick bread, such as brioche or Texas toast. The thickness of the bread is crucial as it allows the custard mixture to soak in without falling apart.
2. Cut each slice of bread into 3 equal strips. You should end up with 24 bread sticks. This size is perfect for dipping and eating.
3. Place the cut bread sticks on a baking sheet or a large plate, ready for dipping into the batter.

Soaking the Bread

1. Take the prepared batter and dip each bread stick into the mixture. Make sure to coat each side thoroughly, allowing the bread to soak for about 10-15 seconds. This ensures that the bread absorbs enough of the custard mixture for a rich flavor.
2. After soaking, gently shake off any excess batter. You want the bread to be coated but not dripping wet.
3. Place the soaked bread sticks on a clean plate or baking sheet, ready for cooking. Repeat this process until all the bread sticks are soaked.

Cooking Process

1. In a large skillet or griddle, heat 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter over medium heat. Allow the butter to melt and become bubbly, but be careful not to let it brown.
2. Once the butter is melted, carefully place the soaked bread sticks in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; you may need to cook them in batches depending on the size of your skillet.
3. Cook the bread sticks for about 2-3 minutes on one side, or until they are golden brown. Use a spatula to check the color. If they are browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
4. Once golden brown, flip the bread sticks over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes on the other side until they are also golden brown and cooked through.
5. Remove the cooked French toast sticks from the skillet and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess butter.
6. If you are cooking in batches, you can keep the cooked sticks warm in a preheated oven at 200°F (93°C) while you finish cooking the remaining sticks.

Coating the French Toast Sticks

1. In a shallow dish, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with an additional 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Mix well to ensure the cinnamon is evenly distributed throughout the sugar.
2. Once all the French toast sticks are cooked, take each stick and roll it in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until fully coated. This adds a delightful sweetness and extra flavor to the outside of the sticks.

Serving Suggestions

1. Arrange the cinnamon French toast sticks on a serving platter. You can stack them or lay them out in a

Conclusion:

In summary, these Cinnamon French Toast Sticks are a delightful breakfast treat that combines the warm, comforting flavors of cinnamon and vanilla with the satisfying crunch of a perfectly cooked exterior. This recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their morning routine or impress guests at brunch. The ease of preparation and the ability to customize the dish make it a versatile option for any occasion. For serving suggestions, consider pairing these French toast sticks with a side of fresh fruit, a drizzle of maple syrup, or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent touch. You can also experiment with variations by adding chocolate chips, nuts, or even a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a festive flair. We encourage you to try this Cinnamon French Toast Sticks recipe and share your experience with friends and family. Whether you enjoy them as a quick weekday breakfast or a leisurely weekend treat, we’d love to hear how you made this recipe your own. Don’t forget to share your photos and tips on social media, and let the world know how delicious these Cinnamon French Toast Sticks can be!

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