Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks transform classic breakfast comfort into a quick, hands-on treat that’s crispy on the outside and custardy inside. Slices of brioche are cut into thick sticks, dipped in a gently spiced cinnamon-vanilla custard, then air-fried until perfectly golden – no deep frying required. The air fryer seals in a caramelized exterior while keeping the center soft and tender, giving you that satisfying contrast everyone loves. They’re ideal for busy mornings, brunches, or a sweet snack, and they reheat beautifully. Serve with a dusting of powdered sugar and warm maple syrup for dipping, or a smear of fruit jam for variation. Simple technique, dependable results, and flavors that feel indulgent without fuss make these a fast favorite.
Perfect Texture Every Time
Getting the texture right is the secret to great French toast sticks, and the air fryer makes it effortless. Start with slightly stale or day-old brioche so the custard clings without turning soggy; the bread soaks just enough to be tender inside but not mushy. The custard balance of eggs, whole milk and a touch of sugar and vanilla creates a rich interior while a light dusting of cinnamon adds warmth. Air-frying at 200C (400F) gives rapid hot air circulation that crisps each side within minutes while preserving the soft center. A quick brush of melted butter before the final minute helps develop a deeper golden color and slight caramelization. The result is a stick with a crisp shell and a pillowy, custardy bite that’s irresistible straight from the basket.
Quick Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
These sticks are versatile and forgiving, perfect for riffing. For a lighter version swap to 2% milk or a plant milk like unsweetened almond and reduce sugar by 1 tsp for less sweetness. For a richer treat use challah or thicker-cut brioche; for gluten-free, use sturdy gluten-free sandwich bread and handle gently when soaking. Serve family-style with warm maple syrup, chocolate hazelnut spread, or a mixed-berry compote for brightness. To reheat, pop leftovers back into the air fryer at 180C (350F) for 2-3 minutes to renew crispness. Make ahead: cut and soak, then refrigerate the sticks in a single layer for up to 4 hours before air-frying. Small touches like a citrus-vanilla whipped cream or toasted nuts elevate them for brunch guests.
Air Fryer French Toast Sticks
Course: Main Course4
servings10
minutes12
minutes431
kcalIngredients
- Main Ingredients
320g brioche or challah bread (8 slices, about 11.3 oz)
3 large eggs
120ml whole milk (1/2 cup)
25g granulated sugar (2 tbsp)
5ml vanilla extract (1 tsp)
2g ground cinnamon (1 tsp)
Pinch of fine salt
- Toppings & Finish
15g unsalted butter, melted (1 tbsp) – for brushing
15g powdered sugar for dusting (2 tbsp)
Neutral oil spray or 1 tsp oil for air fryer basket
Directions
- Prepare the bread – Trim crusts if desired and cut each slice into 3-4 thick sticks so you have roughly 24 sticks from 8 slices. If bread is very fresh, let sticks sit uncovered 10-20 minutes so they firm up slightly.
- Make the custard – In a shallow bowl whisk together 3 large eggs, 120ml whole milk (1/2 cup), 25g granulated sugar, 5ml vanilla extract (1 tsp), 2g ground cinnamon (1 tsp) and a pinch of salt until smooth and pale.
- Soak the sticks – Working in batches, dip each bread stick into the custard, pressing gently so the center soaks but the stick keeps some structure. Let excess drip off and place on a tray while you preheat the air fryer.
- Air-fry – Preheat air fryer to 200C (400F). Lightly spray the basket with oil. Arrange sticks in a single layer without overcrowding – you may need 2 batches. Air-fry for 6 minutes, flip the sticks, brush lightly with melted butter and continue for 4-6 more minutes until golden and crisp. Total cook time per batch about 10-12 minutes.
- Finish and serve – Transfer to a plate, dust with 15g powdered sugar, and serve warm with maple syrup, jam or fruit compote for dipping. Reheat leftover sticks in the air fryer at 180C (350F) for 2-3 minutes to restore crispness.
