Air Fryer French Toast Sticks with Orange Cinnamon Custard Recipe
These Air Fryer French Toast Sticks are a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast treat. Crispy on the outside and soft inside, they’re coated with a flavorful cinnamon-sugar mix and perfect for dipping in maple syrup. Using an air fryer reduces oil use while ensuring a perfectly golden finish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
For the Custard
- 3 large eggs
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon caster sugar
- Pinch of salt
- 1 teaspoon orange zest
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
For the Bread
- 8 slices brioche bread or white loaf bread, each slice cut into thirds
For the Topping
- Additional sugar for cinnamon sugar mix (approx. 2 tablespoons)
- Ground cinnamon (approx. 1 teaspoon)
To Serve
- Maple syrup
- Fresh strawberries
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a large bowl, beat together the eggs, heavy cream, caster sugar, salt, orange zest, ground cinnamon, and vanilla extract until well combined and smooth.
- Dip the bread: Dip each piece of bread into the egg mixture, turning a few times to ensure each piece is fully coated on all sides evenly but not soaked through.
- Arrange in air fryer: Place the coated bread pieces in a single layer inside the air fryer basket. Ensure there is space between each piece to allow for even air circulation. Cook in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the French toast sticks: Set the air fryer temperature to 375°F (190°C). Cook the sticks for about 8 to 10 minutes, turning or tossing them halfway through to ensure they become golden brown and crispy on all sides.
- Prepare cinnamon sugar coating: In a separate bowl, mix together sugar and ground cinnamon to create the cinnamon sugar blend.
- Coat the French toast sticks: Remove the cooked French toast sticks from the air fryer and immediately roll or sprinkle them in the cinnamon sugar mixture to coat all sides evenly.
- Serve: Serve the French toast sticks hot alongside maple syrup and fresh strawberries for dipping and added flavor.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better texture and less sogginess.
- Cut bread into sticks about 1 inch wide for best cooking results.
- Don’t overcrowd the air fryer basket; cook in batches to maintain crispiness.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute heavy cream with coconut milk or almond milk, although texture may vary.
- If you prefer sweeter French toast, sprinkle extra caster sugar on top before serving.
- Fresh orange zest adds a nice citrus aroma; omit if unavailable.
