1. Prepare the French Toast Mixture
- Mix Ingredients: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, granulated sugar, ground cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
2. Cut the Bread
- Cut into Sticks: Using a serrated knife, cut each slice of bread into 4-6 sticks, depending on the thickness of the bread and your preference.
3. Coat the Bread Sticks
- Dip in Mixture: Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, ensuring it’s fully coated but not overly soggy. Let any excess mixture drip off.
4. Air Fry the French Toast Sticks
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 5 minutes.
- Arrange in Air Fryer: Lightly spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray. Arrange the dipped French toast sticks in a single layer in the basket, making sure they’re not overcrowded. You may need to do this in batches depending on the size of your air fryer.
- Air Fry: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 8-10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
5. Coat with Cinnamon Sugar
- Prepare Coating: While the French toast sticks are cooking, mix the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon in a small bowl.
- Coat Sticks: Once the sticks are done cooking, immediately toss them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat.
6. Serve
- Garnish: Serve the French toast sticks warm with your choice of maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh fruit, or jam.
Tips for Success
- Bread Choice: Use bread that is slightly stale or thicker slices to hold up better during cooking. Fresh bread can become too soggy.
- Even Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket to ensure even cooking and crispiness.
- Test for Doneness: If your air fryer tends to cook unevenly, check the French toast sticks and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Variations
Customize your Air Fryer French Toast Sticks with these variations:
- Flavor Additions: Add a dash of nutmeg or cardamom to the egg mixture for additional flavor.
- Stuffed French Toast Sticks: Spread a thin layer of cream cheese or fruit preserves on the bread before cutting it into sticks for a stuffed version.
- Nutty Crunch: For extra crunch, coat the sticks with crushed nuts or granola along with the cinnamon sugar.
Conclusion
You’ve just created a batch of crispy, golden Air Fryer French Toast Sticks that are perfect for dipping and enjoying. This recipe combines convenience with deliciousness, making it an ideal choice for a quick and satisfying breakfast or brunch.
Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and savor these delightful French toast sticks with your favorite toppings. Bon appétit!