French toast sticks are a breakfast favorite, but standing over a hot skillet to cook them in batches can be a hassle. This oven-baked version delivers the same golden, crispy exterior and soft, custardy center, but it cooks all at once on a sheet pan, freeing you up to make coffee or set the table. The key is a thick, eggy custard and a hot oven, which create perfectly dunkable sticks every time.
Ingredients
- 8 slices thick-cut brioche or Texas toast (about 1 inch / 2.5 cm thick)
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk
- 2 tablespoons (25 g) granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons (56 g) unsalted butter, melted
- For serving: maple syrup, powdered sugar, fresh berries
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- Slice the bread into 1-inch (2.5 cm) thick slices, then cut each slice into 3 even sticks. You should have about 24 sticks total.
- In a shallow dish (like a pie plate), whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt until the sugar is dissolved and the mixture is smooth.
- Dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, turning to coat all sides. Let any excess drip off for a second or two. Place the dipped sticks on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer, leaving a little space between them.
- Brush the tops of all the sticks with half of the melted butter. Bake for 9 minutes.
- Remove the pan from the oven, carefully flip each stick with tongs, and brush the other side with the remaining melted butter. Return to the oven and bake for another 9–10 minutes, until the sticks are golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside.
- Serve immediately with maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or your favorite toppings.
Tips
- Bread matters: Day-old or slightly stale bread soaks up the custard better without turning mushy. If your bread is very fresh, you can leave it out on the counter for an hour or toast it lightly before dipping.
- Don’t oversoak: A quick dip is all you need. If you leave the bread in the custard too long, the sticks will become soggy and won’t crisp up in the oven.
- Use a hot oven: 425°F (220°C) is hot enough to create a crisp exterior while keeping the inside custardy. A cooler oven will make them dry and tough.
- Make it dairy-free: Substitute the whole milk with unsweetened almond, oat, or soy milk, and use a neutral oil or vegan butter instead of regular butter. The texture will be slightly less rich, but still delicious.
Serving Suggestions
These sticks are perfect for dipping. Serve them with warm maple syrup, a bowl of fresh berries, or a dollop of whipped cream. For a savory twist, skip the cinnamon and sugar and serve with a sprinkle of powdered sugar and a side of crispy bacon or breakfast sausage. They also make a great base for a breakfast sundae—top with yogurt, granola, and fruit.
Variations
- Stuffed: Cut a pocket in each bread stick and fill with a spoonful of cream cheese or Nutella before dipping in the custard.
- Citrus: Add 1 teaspoon of orange or lemon zest to the custard for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Pumpkin spice: Replace the cinnamon and nutmeg with 1 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice, and use 1/4 cup (60 ml) of pumpkin puree in the custard. You may need to add an extra tablespoon of milk to keep it pourable.
- Chocolate: Add 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder to the custard and reduce the cinnamon to 1/4 teaspoon. Serve with chocolate sauce.
Storage and Reheating
Leftover french toast sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5–7 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat them in an air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 3–4 minutes. They are best reheated in the oven or air fryer rather than the microwave, which will make them soggy. For longer storage, freeze the baked sticks in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They will keep for up to 2 months. Reheat frozen sticks directly in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 8–10 minutes, no need to thaw.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use regular sandwich bread? Yes, but the sticks will be thinner and will cook faster. Reduce the baking time by 2–3 minutes and check for doneness early. Thicker bread like brioche or Texas toast yields the best texture.
Why are my french toast sticks soggy? Sogginess usually comes from oversoaking the bread or using a custard with too much milk. Make sure you’re using a quick dip and that your oven is fully preheated. Also, avoid stacking the sticks on the baking sheet; they need space to crisp up.
Can I make the custard ahead of time? Yes, you can whisk the eggs, milk, sugar, and spices together and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Give it a good stir before using.
How do I prevent the sticks from sticking to the pan? Use a good-quality nonstick baking sheet or line your pan with parchment paper or a silicone mat. Brushing the pan with a little butter also helps.
Can I use a dairy-free milk alternative? Absolutely. Almond, oat, and soy milk all work well. Keep in mind that they have a higher water content than dairy milk, so the custard may be slightly thinner. You can add an extra tablespoon of flour to the custard to help it thicken, if needed.
Are these safe to serve to kids? Yes, as long as the eggs are fully cooked. The internal temperature of the custard should reach 160°F (71°C) (USDA FSIS safe minimum for egg dishes). Since the sticks are baked at 425°F (220°C) for about 18 minutes, they will easily reach that temperature. You can check with a food thermometer in the center of a stick if you’re unsure.
Related
- Greek Veggie Platter: Easy Meze Board Recipe
- Halloween Veggie Platter: Spooky & Easy
- Ham Egg and Cheese Quesadillas: Easy Breakfast Recipe
More recipes to cook
Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes
Spotted an error? Tell us and we will correct it (corrections policy).