French toast sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast or snack that both adults and children love. Traditionally, French toast is made by soaking bread in a mixture of eggs, milk, and spices, and then frying it in a pan. However, if you want a hassle-free method that requires less hands-on time, you can try making French toast sticks in the oven. This method is perfect for those who want a quick and fuss-free breakfast or snack that can be prepared ahead of time.
Gather Your Ingredients
To make French toast sticks in the oven, you will need a few basic ingredients. For this recipe, you will need bread, eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, butter, and a sweetener such as sugar or maple syrup. You can use any type of bread you prefer, such as white, whole wheat, or even brioche for a richer and more indulgent taste. Make sure your bread is slightly stale or toasted, as it will hold up better during the baking process.
Prepare the Bread
Before you start making the French toast sticks, you need to prepare the bread. Cut the slices of bread into thick strips, about 1 inch wide. You can trim off the crusts if desired, but they can add a nice crunch to the finished sticks. Set the prepared bread aside while you prepare the egg mixture.
Make the Egg Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and sweetener. The cinnamon adds a warm and comforting flavor to the French toast sticks, while the sweetener helps to balance out the flavors. You can adjust the amount of cinnamon and sweetener to your taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter French toast, you can add more sugar or maple syrup to the mixture.
Soak the Bread
Once the egg mixture is ready, it’s time to soak the bread. Dip each bread strip into the egg mixture, making sure it is coated on all sides. Allow any excess egg mixture to drip off before placing the soaked bread on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Make sure to leave a little space between each bread strip to ensure even cooking.
Bake in the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is preheating, melt the butter in a small saucepan or microwave. Once the oven is preheated, brush the melted butter over the bread strips using a pastry brush. This step adds a wonderful buttery flavor to the French toast sticks and helps them develop a crispy texture.
Place the baking sheet with the bread strips in the preheated oven and bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the sticks are golden brown and crispy on the outside. Turn the sticks over halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning. Keep an eye on them during the last few minutes of baking to prevent them from becoming too dry.
Serve and Enjoy
Once your French toast sticks are done, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve them warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as maple syrup, fruit compote, or even a dollop of whipped cream. These sticks are also delicious on their own and can be enjoyed as a grab-and-go snack. They can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days and reheated in the oven or toaster when ready to eat.
Customize Your French Toast Sticks
One of the wonderful things about French toast sticks is that they are highly customizable. You can add various flavors and toppings to make them even more delicious. For a burst of citrusy flavor, you can add a little lemon zest to the egg mixture. You can also add a sprinkle of nutmeg or cardamom for a hint of warmth and spice.
If you have a sweet tooth, you can dust the finished French toast sticks with powdered sugar or drizzle them with melted chocolate or caramel sauce. For a fruity twist, you can spread a layer of your favorite jam or jelly on the bread before soaking it in the egg mixture. The possibilities are endless, and you can get creative with flavors that suit your taste preferences.
In conclusion, making French toast sticks in the oven is a convenient and delicious alternative to traditional stovetop cooking. By following this simple recipe, you can enjoy crispy and golden French toast sticks without the need for constant flipping and monitoring. It’s the perfect way to start your day or satisfy your cravings for a sweet and comforting treat. So why not give this recipe a try and enjoy the delightful flavors of homemade French toast sticks?