Cinnamon French Toast is the ultimate quick breakfast when you want something warm, cozy, and irresistibly sweet. These cinnamon-sugar–coated sticks turn simple bread into a golden, crunchy-on-the-outside, soft-on-the-inside treat in just minutes. Whether you’re feeding kids, hosting a brunch, or craving a comforting morning bite, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal ingredients and effort.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Fast & easy — ready in under 15 minutes.
- Pantry-friendly ingredients — nothing fancy required.
- Perfect texture — a crisp cinnamon crust with a tender center.
- Kid-friendly & brunch-approved — great for dipping and sharing.
- Deep, warm flavor — the cinnamon-sugar coating melts slightly on the warm toast for extra richness.
What makes this version special is the technique: cooking the sticks until perfectly golden, then rolling them in cinnamon sugar while still hot. That small detail creates the iconic caramelized finish that sets this Cinnamon French Toast apart from the rest.
Ingredients Needed
For the French Toast Sticks
- 4 thick slices of white bread, slightly stale (holds shape better)
- 2 large eggs, room temperature
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- A pinch of salt
For the Cinnamon Sugar
- 1/3 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
For Cooking & Serving
- 3 tablespoons butter (divided)
- Maple syrup for serving (optional)
How to Make Cinnamon French Toast
1. Prepare the bread
Trim off the crusts, then slice each bread piece into 3 thick sticks. Thick pieces will stay soft in the center after cooking.
2. Make the egg mixture
In a wide bowl, whisk the eggs, milk, and a small pinch of salt. Choose a bowl wide enough to roll the bread sticks easily.
3. Mix the cinnamon sugar
Combine the sugar and cinnamon on a plate and spread it out evenly. This helps the sticks coat fully and uniformly.
4. Heat the pan
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat. The butter should foam slightly but not burn.
5. Dip & cook
Quickly roll each bread stick in the egg mixture — avoid soaking them or they’ll get soggy. Shake off excess and place them in the hot pan. Work in batches for the best browning.
6. Brown on all sides
Turn the sticks until each side is golden and crisp, about 6–8 minutes total. They should be slightly caramelized when ready.
7. Coat immediately
While still hot, roll the sticks in the cinnamon sugar mixture. Heat helps the sugar melt just enough to stick beautifully and form a sweet crust.
8. Repeat with remaining sticks
Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan and cook the last batch the same way.
Serving and Storage Tips
Serving Ideas
- Drizzle with maple syrup or honey
- Serve with fresh berries, whipped cream, or yogurt
- Add a dusting of cinnamon for extra aroma
Storage
- Refrigerate: Up to 3 days in an airtight container
- Freeze: Up to 1 month, separated by parchment paper
Reheating
- Skillet: 2–3 minutes for crisp texture
- Air fryer: 3–4 minutes at 180°C/350°F
- Microwave: Quick, but less crispy
Helpful Notes
- Slightly stale bread works best — it absorbs without falling apart.
- Brown sugar can be used for a deeper caramel flavor.
- Add a splash of vanilla to the egg mixture for extra warmth.
- Coconut oil works well as a lighter alternative to butter.
Cinnamon French Toast
Ingredients
Method
- Trim the crusts from the bread and slice each piece into 3 thick sticks.
- Whisk the eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt in a wide bowl.
- Mix the sugar and cinnamon on a plate and spread it out evenly.
- Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Quickly dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, shaking off excess, then place into the hot pan.
- Cook on all sides until golden and crisp, about 6–8 minutes total.
- Immediately roll the hot sticks in the cinnamon sugar mixture.
- Add the remaining tablespoon of butter to the pan and repeat with the rest.
Notes
Conclusion
These Cinnamon French Toast sticks prove that a delicious breakfast doesn’t have to be complicated. With their soft interior, crunchy cinnamon coating, and comforting aroma, they’re a guaranteed hit for any morning occasion. Whether you serve them for a quick weekday treat or as a fun brunch centerpiece, they deliver flavor, simplicity, and pure comfort in every bite.
If you make this recipe, leave a comment and a star rating — I’d love to hear how yours turned out!
And feel free to share your creations on Pinterest or Facebook.
Did you try a variation — maybe chocolate, vanilla, or a different type of bread? Tell me in the comments!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Brioche, challah, and thick-cut sandwich bread work beautifully.
How do I make this gluten-free?
Simply swap in your favorite gluten-free bread. All other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
Why are my sticks turning mushy?
You may be soaking them too long. Dip quickly so they absorb just enough mixture without becoming soggy.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes! Cook, cool, and freeze them, then reheat in a skillet or air fryer.
The sugar isn’t sticking — what did I do wrong?
Make sure to coat the sticks while they’re still hot. The warmth helps the sugar cling perfectly.