📝 About This Recipe
Elevate your breakfast game with these decadent French Toast Sticks, featuring thick-cut buttery brioche transformed into crispy, custard-filled batons. By using the air fryer, we achieve a perfectly caramelized exterior without the mess of a frying pan, resulting in a snackable brunch classic that is soft on the inside and crunch-coated on the outside. Infused with warm vanilla and aromatic cinnamon, these sticks are the ultimate marriage of convenience and gourmet bakery indulgence.
🥗 Ingredients
The Bread
- 1 loaf Brioche Loaf (unsliced, slightly stale or 'day-old' is best)
The Custard Base
- 3 Large Eggs (at room temperature)
- 1/2 cup Whole Milk
- 1/4 cup Heavy Cream (adds richness to the custard)
- 1.5 teaspoons Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon Ground Nutmeg (freshly grated if possible)
- 2 tablespoons Granulated Sugar
- 1 pinch Kosher Salt (to balance the sweetness)
Cinnamon Sugar Coating
- 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar
- 1 tablespoon Ground Cinnamon
- 3 tablespoons Unsalted Butter (melted, for brushing)
For Serving
- 1/2 cup Maple Syrup (warmed)
- 1 cup Fresh Berries (raspberries or strawberries)
- 1 tablespoon Powdered Sugar (for dusting)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Begin by slicing your brioche loaf into thick slices, approximately 1 to 1.5 inches wide. Then, cut each slice into three uniform 'sticks' or batons.
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2
In a wide, shallow bowl or pie dish, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, vanilla extract, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, nutmeg, 2 tablespoons of sugar, and salt until completely smooth.
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3
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes to ensure a hot cooking environment.
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4
Line the air fryer basket with a piece of perforated parchment paper or lightly coat the grate with non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
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5
Working in batches, dip each bread stick into the custard mixture. Allow it to soak for about 5-10 seconds per side. You want it saturated but not falling apart.
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6
Lift the stick and let the excess custard drip off before placing it into the air fryer basket. Ensure they are in a single layer with space between each stick for air circulation.
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7
Air fry the sticks at 375°F for 5-6 minutes. They should begin to puff up and turn a light golden brown.
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8
Using silicone-tipped tongs, carefully flip each stick over and continue to air fry for an additional 4-5 minutes until the exterior is crisp and deep golden.
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9
While the sticks are cooking, mix the 1/4 cup sugar and 1 tablespoon cinnamon in a small bowl. Melt the 3 tablespoons of butter in a separate small dish.
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10
Once the sticks are done, remove them from the air fryer. Immediately brush the tops lightly with melted butter.
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11
Toss the buttered sticks in the cinnamon sugar mixture until evenly coated. The warmth of the bread will help the sugar adhere.
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12
Repeat the process with any remaining bread sticks. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.
💡 Chef's Tips
Use 'day-old' bread; if your brioche is too fresh, toast the slices lightly in a low oven for 10 minutes to dry them out so they don't get soggy. Don't overcrowd the air fryer basket; if the sticks are touching, they won't get that signature crispy edge on all sides. Whisk the custard frequently as the cinnamon tends to float to the top and may clump on the first few sticks. If you want an extra crunch, add a tablespoon of crushed cornflakes or panko breadcrumbs to your cinnamon sugar coating. For a dairy-free version, substitute the milk and cream with full-fat oat milk or coconut milk.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve in a small bowl or parchment cone with a side of warm Grade A maple syrup for dipping. Pair with a side of crispy thick-cut bacon or savory breakfast sausage to balance the sweetness. Add a dollop of whipped mascarpone cheese or Greek yogurt on the side for a tangy contrast. Accompany with a hot café au lait or a fresh mimosa for a complete weekend brunch experience. Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint and a dusting of powdered sugar for a professional bakery look.