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Air Fryer French Toast Sticks - Crispy, Quick, and Kid-Friendly

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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • Bread: 6–8 slices of thick, sturdy bread (Texas toast, brioche, or challah work best)
  • Eggs: 3 large
  • Milk or Cream: 3/4 cup (whole milk, half-and-half, or a dairy-free alternative)
  • Vanilla Extract: 1 1/2 teaspoons
  • Cinnamon: 1–2 teaspoons
  • Salt: A pinch to balance the sweetness
  • Sugar (optional): 1–2 tablespoons, for a sweeter custard
  • Butter or Oil Spray: For greasing the basket
  • Coating (optional): 1/4 cup granulated sugar + 1 teaspoon cinnamon for dusting after cooking
  • To Serve: Maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries

Method
 

  1. Preheat your air fryer. Set it to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. A warm basket helps the sticks crisp up right away.
  2. Cut the bread. Slice each piece into 3 or 4 even sticks. Thick bread holds the custard without getting mushy.
  3. Make the custard. Whisk eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, salt, and sugar (if using) in a shallow dish until smooth and well combined.
  4. Dip quickly, don’t soak. Dip each stick in the custard, turning to coat. Let excess drip off. Aim for lightly saturated, not soggy.
  5. Grease the basket. Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil or melted butter to prevent sticking.
  6. Arrange in a single layer. Place the soaked sticks in the basket with a little space between each one. Avoid stacking.
  7. Air fry. Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 7–9 minutes, flipping halfway. They should be golden brown and slightly firm to the touch.
  8. Optional cinnamon-sugar finish. While hot, toss the sticks in a cinnamon-sugar mix for a churro-style crunch.
  9. Serve warm. Plate with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or berries. Eat right away for the best texture.