A Morning Tradition
My Favorite is Cinnamon French Toast Fingers and Growing up, Saturdays were special in our house. My mom would wake us up with the smell of something sweet wafting from the kitchen, and we knew it was French toast day. But these weren’t just any French toast; they were Cinnamon French Toast Fingers, crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and always coated in that irresistible cinnamon sugar. As a kid, I loved dipping them in warm maple syrup and savoring the taste that was a cross between breakfast and dessert. Now, as an adult, I’ve kept this tradition alive, sharing these delightful sticks with my own family.
Quick and Easy Magic
What I love most about making Cinnamon French Toast Fingers is how quick and easy they are to prepare. In just 15 minutes, I can whip up a batch that everyone loves. It starts with simple ingredients—day-old bread, eggs, milk, and a bit of cinnamon sugar. The bread is cut into thick batons, perfect for little hands or a grab-and-go breakfast. I dip them into a lightly seasoned egg mixture and cook them to golden perfection. The trick is to not let them soak too long, just a quick dip to coat them enough without turning them soggy.
The Cinnamon Sugar Coat
Once the sticks are perfectly crispy, they get their final touch—a generous roll in cinnamon sugar. This is the part where the magic happens. The warm sticks soak up the sugar and cinnamon, creating a crust that’s sweet and slightly crunchy, reminiscent of a cinnamon doughnut. I always make sure to coat them while they’re still hot, so the sugar melts a bit and sticks perfectly. It’s a small step, but it makes all the difference in turning simple French toast into a treat that feels special.
Sharing the Love
I’ve made these Cinnamon French Toast Fingers countless times, whether for my family, friends, or even as a quick snack for myself. They’re perfect for any occasion—weekday breakfasts, weekend brunches, or just because. Every time I make them, they bring back memories of my childhood, and I love that I get to create new memories with my loved ones. There’s something comforting about a recipe that’s been passed down, simple yet full of love, and I hope you’ll find as much joy in these French toast fingers as I do.
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Chef’s Notes-Cinnamon French Toast Fingers
- Day-old bread is key to achieving that perfect texture. If you only have fresh bread, toast it lightly before cutting into sticks to help it absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy.
- When dipping the bread sticks into the egg mixture, do it quickly. Soaking them can make the sticks too soft and difficult to cook evenly.
- To get an even golden-brown color on all sides, ensure the pan is evenly heated and the butter is melted completely before adding the bread. Cook in batches if your pan is small, so you don’t overcrowd it.
- Roll the sticks in the cinnamon-sugar mixture while they’re still hot. This ensures the sugar melts slightly and sticks to the French toast, giving it a doughnut-like finish.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the egg mixture for a deeper, richer flavor. You can also sprinkle a little extra cinnamon-sugar on top just before serving for a sweeter taste.
FAQ-Cinnamon French Toast Fingers
Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! You can use brioche, challah, or even whole wheat bread. Just make sure the bread is slightly stale to avoid sogginess.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the French toast sticks in advance and freeze them. Reheat in the oven or toaster oven before serving for a quick breakfast option.
What can I use instead of butter for cooking?
Coconut oil or a good quality vegan butter works well if you’re looking for a dairy-free alternative.
How do I make these French toast sticks healthier?
Swap white sugar for coconut sugar, use whole grain bread, and opt for a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk.
What other toppings can I use besides maple syrup?
You can serve these with fresh fruit, honey, Nutella, or a dollop of whipped cream. Yogurt is also a great option for a more balanced meal.