Transform your morning routine with this incredibly fun and delicious Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks recipe! This innovative twist on classic French toast combines the beloved cinnamon-sugar flavors of your favorite cereal with soft, custardy bread, all cooked to a perfect golden crisp. Forget soggy French toast; these sticks are designed for easy dunking, simple eating, and guaranteed smiles, especially from the kids. Get ready to experience breakfast perfection that’s both quick to prepare and unbelievably tasty.

Author’s Note

Crispy, Custardy, Cinnamon-Sugary Perfection!

Growing up, Cinnamon Toast Crunch was always my go-to cereal. While my breakfast habits have shifted towards healthier options like a refreshing Green Smoothie or a vibrant Blueberry Smoothie on most mornings, there’s still a special place in my heart for that iconic cinnamon-sugar flavor. The sheer joy that cereal brought me as a child was unparalleled, and I often found myself wanting to recreate that magic in other forms.

So, I pondered, why not infuse that beloved flavor and texture into one of my family’s all-time favorite breakfasts – French toast? It seemed like a wild, yet potentially brilliant, culinary experiment. The idea was simple: crush the cereal and use it as a coating for French toast sticks, adding an irresistible crunch and an extra layer of cinnamon goodness. The experiment paid off immensely!

The result? These Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks are an absolute revelation! They boast a delightful sweetness and a prominent cinnamon flavor, encased in an irresistibly crispy exterior, thanks to the crushed cereal, while maintaining a wonderfully soft, custardy interior. Each bite offers a harmonious blend of textures and tastes that practically melts in your mouth. I honestly don’t think my kids will ever let me prepare French toast any other way now, and I can’t blame them – they are truly that good!

This recipe transforms a breakfast classic into an exciting new experience, making breakfast an eagerly anticipated meal. It’s perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick yet satisfying option, or for lazy weekends when you want to treat your family to something truly special. The unique texture and flavor combination make these sticks a hit with both children and adults, proving that sometimes, the best innovations come from creatively combining two beloved classics.

Why You’ll Love These Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks

This recipe isn’t just another way to make French toast; it’s an elevated breakfast experience designed to delight! Here’s why these Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks will quickly become a cherished family favorite and a go-to recipe in your kitchen:

• Irresistibly Crispy Exterior: The star of the show! Thanks to the crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal coating, each stick develops a remarkably crispy, golden crust. This provides a delightful textural contrast to the soft interior that is simply unmatched by traditional French toast.
• Soft, Custardy Interior: Beneath that glorious crunch, the bread is perfectly soaked in a rich egg and milk mixture. This creates a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture that defines truly exceptional French toast, ensuring every bite is pure comfort.
• Explosion of Cinnamon-Sugar Flavor: You get that iconic, comforting taste of cinnamon and sugar in every single bite. The cereal’s unique flavor profile amplifies this, making it taste like having your favorite breakfast cereal and French toast rolled into one incredible dish.
• Kid-Friendly Fun: The convenient stick format makes them incredibly easy for little hands to hold, dip, and enjoy, turning breakfast into a fun, interactive meal. They are a proven hit with even the pickiest eaters and a great way to start their day.
• Quick & Easy Preparation: Despite their gourmet taste and impressive presentation, these French Toast Sticks are surprisingly simple and fast to make. They are perfect for busy weekday mornings when time is short, or for a leisurely weekend brunch when you want something special without the fuss.
• Versatile Serving Options: These sticks are a perfect canvas for all your favorite toppings. Whether you prefer classic maple syrup, a vibrant medley of fresh berries, decadent homemade vanilla sauce, or a dollop of fluffy whipped cream, they pair beautifully with almost anything.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: From a speedy breakfast to a leisurely brunch with guests, or even a fun dessert after dinner, these sticks fit seamlessly into any meal plan. They offer a comforting and satisfying treat that always brings smiles.
• Unique Texture & Flavor: The combination of the sweet, warm custard and the crunchy, spiced cereal creates a flavor and texture profile that is truly unique and addictive. It’s a delightful departure from ordinary French toast.

Prepare to be amazed by how such a simple, yet ingenious, twist can create such an extraordinary breakfast. These Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks are more than just food; they’re a joyous start to any day, promising satisfaction and deliciousness with every single bite.

Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks

Crafting these extraordinary Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks requires a few carefully selected ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that perfect crispy exterior and wonderfully custardy interior. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component is important for creating truly unforgettable French toast:

• Brioche or French Bread: The very foundation of our French toast. For optimal absorption of the egg mixture without becoming overly soggy, day-old or slightly stale bread is highly recommended. Brioche offers a rich, buttery flavor and a tender, delicate crumb, resulting in a more decadent French toast. French bread, on the other hand, provides a slightly chewier texture and a good sturdy base for sticks.
• Large Eggs: These are the primary component of your rich custard. It’s essential to whisk the eggs thoroughly until the yolks and whites are completely combined and the mixture is smooth. This ensures an even coating for your bread sticks, which is vital for uniform cooking, consistent texture, and preventing any unappetizing eggy bits.
• Whole Milk: Adding whole milk to the custard contributes significantly to its richness and helps create that desirable, creamy custardy texture that makes French toast so appealing. While lower-fat milk can be used, whole milk typically yields the best flavor and a thicker, more luxurious custard that adheres beautifully to the bread, enhancing the overall mouthfeel.
• Light Brown Sugar: This ingredient sweetens the egg custard, but more importantly, it adds a subtle molasses-rich depth of flavor that perfectly complements the cinnamon and vanilla. Using lightly packed brown sugar helps to achieve the ideal sweetness balance without overpowering the other delicate flavors.
• Pure Vanilla Extract: A non-negotiable for any truly exceptional French toast recipe! Use a high-quality pure vanilla extract to infuse the custard with a warm, aromatic fragrance and a rich, sweet flavor that elevates the entire dish, creating a comforting and inviting aroma as it cooks.
• Sea Salt: Just a small pinch of fine sea salt is essential. It doesn’t make the French toast salty but rather acts as a flavor enhancer, balancing the sweetness, and bringing out the best in all the other ingredients, preventing the dish from tasting overly cloying or one-dimensional.
• Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal: This is our secret ingredient for that incredible, signature crispy coating! It’s crucial to crush the cereal into very fine crumbs. A blender or food processor works best for this, ensuring an even and consistent texture that adheres well to the bread sticks, creating that irresistible crunch.
• Unsalted Butter: Used for cooking the French toast sticks, unsalted butter not only prevents sticking but also imparts a rich, nutty flavor and helps achieve a beautiful golden-brown color and a wonderfully crisp texture. It adds another layer of deliciousness that cooking oil simply cannot replicate.

With these carefully selected and prepared ingredients, you are well on your way to creating Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks that are truly unforgettable – a delightful treat that will quickly become a household favorite.

Easy Step-by-Step Guide: How To Make Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks

Making these delightful French Toast Sticks is a straightforward and rewarding process that yields incredibly delicious results every time. Follow these simple, clear steps for a perfect batch of crispy, custardy breakfast treats:

1. Prepare the Bread: Start by preparing your chosen bread. If you’re using a loaf of French bread, slice it into uniform 3/4-inch thick pieces, then cut each slice into 2–3 sturdy sticks. If you have pre-sliced bakery brioche bread, simply cut each piece into 4 convenient sticks. Arrange the cut bread on a wire rack or plate, leaving it uncovered while you prepare the wet ingredients. Allowing the bread to air out slightly for a few minutes can help it absorb the custard mixture more effectively without becoming overly soggy.
2. Whisk the Custard: In a large, shallow bowl (ensure it’s wide enough to easily dip the bread sticks), combine the large eggs, whole milk, light brown sugar, pure vanilla extract, and a pinch of sea salt. Whisk all these ingredients vigorously until the mixture is completely smooth, and no streaks of egg white remain. A thoroughly whisked custard ensures an even coating and a consistent, desirable custardy texture in your finished French toast.
3. Crush the Cereal: Pour the Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal into a blender or a food processor. Pulse the cereal until it is reduced to fine, consistent crumbs. It’s important to achieve a fine crumb for the best coating. Depending on the size of your appliance, you may need to do this in batches. Once crushed, transfer all the fine cereal crumbs to another large, shallow bowl – this will serve as your dedicated dredging station.
4. Coat the Bread Sticks: This step requires a little speed and a gentle touch. Take one bread stick at a time and quickly dip it into the egg and milk custard, ensuring all sides are thoroughly coated. Gently shake off any excess liquid to prevent the bread from becoming oversaturated and soggy. Immediately transfer the custard-coated stick to the bowl of crushed cereal. Generously coat the stick with cereal crumbs, pressing gently to ensure a good adherence on all sides. Repeat this process with all remaining bread sticks, placing the fully coated sticks on a separate clean plate.
5. Cook to Perfection: Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat. If you prefer using an electric griddle, preheat it to 375°F (190°C). Add about a tablespoon of unsalted butter to the hot pan, allowing it to melt and lightly bubble. Carefully place the cereal-coated French toast sticks into the skillet in a single layer, making sure there’s at least 1/2 inch of space between each stick. This crucial step allows for proper air circulation and ensures even cooking.
6. Achieve Golden & Crispy: Cook the sticks for approximately 2-3 minutes per side, or until they achieve a beautiful, appealing golden-brown color and are wonderfully crispy to the touch. Flip them gently with tongs or a spatula to cook all sides evenly. Once cooked, immediately transfer the crispy French Toast Sticks to a wire cooling rack. This is a crucial step for maintaining their crispiness, as placing them directly on a flat plate can trap steam and make them soft. Wipe out the skillet with a paper towel and repeat the process with additional butter and the remaining sticks until all are cooked.
7. Serve Immediately: For the absolute best experience, serve your Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks immediately while they are hot and fresh. A light dusting of powdered sugar adds a touch of elegance, and a generous drizzle of warm maple syrup or a homemade vanilla sauce, along with a scattering of fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream, makes for an unforgettable and delightful breakfast!

Enjoy the delightful crunch and sweet, custardy goodness of your homemade Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks!

Delightful Serving Suggestions for Your French Toast Sticks

These Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks are absolutely delicious on their own, offering a wonderful balance of crispy texture and sweet, cinnamon flavor. However, they truly shine when paired with the right accompaniments, transforming a simple breakfast into a memorable and indulgent meal. Here are some delightful ways to serve them:

• The Ultimate Decadent Platter: My personal favorite way to enjoy these sticks is to arrange them artfully on a plate and generously top them with a vibrant medley of fresh berries (think juicy strawberries, plump blueberries, and sweet raspberries!). Add a rich drizzle of homemade vanilla sauce, and finish with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. This combination offers a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and creamy indulgence.
• Tropical Twist: For a refreshing and slightly exotic change, serve your French Toast Sticks with slices of fresh, ripe bananas and a luxurious drizzle of healthy caramel sauce. The natural sweetness and creamy texture of the banana pair beautifully with the warm cinnamon flavors.
• Classic Comfort: You can never go wrong with the timeless pairing of warm, pure maple syrup. Drizzle it generously over your hot French toast sticks for that quintessential breakfast experience. Enhance it further with a side of mixed berries or a cloud of freshly whipped cream for added luxury.
• Blueberry Bliss: Elevate your breakfast with a vibrant and fruity blueberry syrup and a handful of fresh blueberries. The sweet and slightly tart blueberries cut through the richness of the French toast, creating a harmonious and invigorating flavor profile.
• Chocolate Lover’s Dream: For those with an undeniable sweet tooth, a rich chocolate drizzle (using melted chocolate chips or chocolate syrup) and some mini chocolate chips can instantly transform these sticks into an indulgent dessert-for-breakfast experience.
• Nutty Crunch: Add an extra layer of texture and earthy flavor by sprinkling chopped nuts like pecans, walnuts, or almonds on top. A swirl of your favorite nut butter, such as peanut butter or almond butter, also makes for a heartier and protein-packed addition.
• Powdered Sugar Perfection: A simple dusting of powdered sugar just before serving adds a beautiful finish and an extra touch of delicate sweetness that enhances the overall appeal.

Experiment with these suggestions or create your own perfect combinations. The possibilities are endless when you have such a versatile and delicious base!

Storage and Reheating Tips for Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks

While these Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks are undeniably best enjoyed fresh off the skillet, you can certainly prepare them in advance or save any delicious leftovers for later. Proper storage and reheating techniques are key to maintaining their delicious flavor and that coveted crispy texture:

What To Do With Extra Egg Mixture and Cereal

It’s quite common to find yourself with a bit of leftover egg custard or crushed cereal after making your French Toast Sticks, especially depending on the size and type of bread used, and how generously you coat each piece. But don’t let anything go to waste!

• Extra Egg Mixture: Any remaining egg custard can be easily stored for future use. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and place it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well for 3-4 days. This leftover mixture is perfectly fine to use for another small batch of French toast, or it can be a great base for an omelet, scrambled eggs, or even a frittata. Just make sure to give it a good whisk again before using to recombine any separated ingredients.
• Crushed Cereal: Unfortunately, crushed cereal does not store well. Once it has been opened and processed into fine crumbs, and especially after it’s been in contact with the egg mixture or exposed to air, it quickly loses its crispiness and can become stale or clump together. For this reason, I highly recommend using your crushed cereal generously while coating the sticks – don’t be shy! If you have a very small amount leftover that you can’t use for French toast, it’s generally best to discard it, or use it immediately as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or even ice cream for an instant crunch.

By planning ahead and being mindful of these tips, you can minimize waste and ensure you get the most out of all your ingredients, making your cooking process more efficient and enjoyable.

★★★★★
5 from 2 votes

Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks Recipe

By Chelsea Lords

These Cinnamon-sugar French Toast Sticks get a crispy, irresistible twist with crushed Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal – an easy, kid-friendly, and utterly delicious breakfast that will quickly become a family favorite!

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Servings: 6 servings

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Equipment

• Blender or food processor
• Large nonstick skillet
• Cooling rack

Ingredients

• 8 slices Brioche bread or French Bread (day old/stale is best)
• 4 large eggs
• 2/3 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar, lightly packed
• 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
• 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
• 6 cups Cinnamon Toast Crunch Cereal
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Serving suggestions (e.g., maple syrup, fresh berries, whipped cream, powdered sugar)

Instructions

1. Prepare Bread: If using French bread, slice into 3/4-inch thick pieces. Slice each piece into 2–3 thick sticks. If using pre-sliced bakery brioche bread, cut each piece into 4 sticks. Set aside (uncovered) while preparing other ingredients.
2. Make Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, whole milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, and salt until completely smooth.
3. Crush Cereal: In a blender or food processor, pulse Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal until it forms fine crumbs. Transfer the crushed cereal to a large, shallow bowl.
4. Coat Bread: Working with one stick at a time, dip it quickly into the egg mixture, gently shaking off excess. Immediately and generously coat/dredge with cereal crumbs, pressing gently to ensure adherence. Repeat for all bread sticks.
5. Cook: Place a large nonstick skillet over medium-low heat (or an electric griddle to 375°F). Add a pat of unsalted butter. Once melted and lightly bubbling, add French Toast Sticks in a single layer, about 1/2-inch apart. Cook until crispy and golden brown on all sides, flipping as needed.
6. Serve: Transfer cooked sticks to a wire cooling rack. Serve immediately off the griddle/skillet with a dust of powdered sugar, fresh berries, and maple syrup or vanilla sauce, if desired.

Recipe Notes

• Bread Choice: Pre-sliced bakery brioche bread works wonderfully, but French bread or plain Texas toast are also excellent options. Day-old or stale bread absorbs the custard best.
• Homemade Vanilla Sauce: For a decadent topping, combine 1/2 cup unsalted butter, 1/2 cup granulated sugar, 1/2 cup light brown sugar, 1/2 cup heavy cream, and 1/8 teaspoon fine sea salt in a heavy-bottomed pot. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, for 5–8 minutes or until thickened and smooth. Remove from heat and stir in 1 tablespoon vanilla extract. Allow to cool slightly before serving.
• Leftover Egg/Cereal: You may have some extra egg mixture or crushed cereal. The egg mixture can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days for future use. Crushed cereal doesn’t store well, so use it generously on your French toast!
• Keeping Warm: To keep multiple batches warm and crispy, preheat your oven to 200°F (95°C) and place a wire cooling rack on a large sheet pan inside. As sticks finish cooking, transfer them to the rack in the oven.
• Nutrition: Nutrition information provided does not include any syrup or other toppings.
• Storage: Store leftover Cinnamon-Sugar French Toast Sticks in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave for a few seconds to refresh.

Nutrition Information (Approximate)

Serving: 1 serving | Calories: 403kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 21g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 6g | Cholesterol: 177mg | Sodium: 308mg | Potassium: 165mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 19g | Vitamin A: 563IU | Vitamin C: 2mg | Calcium: 88mg | Iron: 2mg

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation only.

Pro Tips for Perfect Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks

Achieving the perfect balance of a crispy exterior and a custardy interior is key to truly exceptional French Toast Sticks. These expert tips will ensure your breakfast masterpiece is a resounding success every single time, delighting both kids and adults alike:

• Choose the Right Bread: While fresh bread can be used, day-old or slightly stale bread is your best friend for making French toast. It’s firmer and absorbs the rich egg custard much more effectively without becoming overly soggy or falling apart, leading to a superior texture. Brioche is excellent for its rich flavor and tender crumb, while French bread offers a nice, sturdy chew.
• Don’t Over-Soak the Bread: This is a common pitfall, especially with tender breads like brioche. A quick dip in the egg mixture is usually all you need. Over-soaking can make the bread too soft and prone to breaking apart during cooking, resulting in a mushy texture rather than a custardy one.
• Shake Off Excess Custard: After dipping each bread stick into the egg mixture, gently shake off any excess liquid. This ensures a thinner, more even coating, which in turn allows the cereal crumbs to adhere better and creates that desirable, consistently crispy crust without becoming heavy or gluey.
• Fine Cereal Crumbs are Key: For the best and most even coating, make absolutely sure your Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal is crushed into very fine crumbs. Larger pieces might detach during cooking or result in an unevenly textured, patchy crust. Using a blender or food processor is ideal for achieving this fine consistency.
• Space Them Out in the Pan: When frying, avoid the temptation to overcrowd the skillet or griddle. Leave about 1/2 inch of space between each stick. This crucial spacing allows for proper air circulation around each stick, ensuring they cook evenly, achieve a consistent golden-brown color, and develop that wonderfully crispy exterior.
• Utilize a Wire Cooling Rack: This is a non-negotiable step for maintaining crispiness! As soon as the French Toast Sticks are cooked and golden, immediately transfer them to a wire cooling rack set over a baking sheet. Placing them directly on a flat plate can trap steam underneath, quickly making the bottom soggy and sacrificing the crispiness you worked hard to achieve. The rack allows air to circulate freely on all sides.
• Serve Immediately for Best Texture: These Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks are at their peak crispiness and flavor right off the griddle or skillet. If you’re preparing a larger batch for a crowd, keep the cooked sticks warm and crispy by transferring them to the prepared wire rack on a baking sheet in a low-heated oven, around 200°F (95°C), while you finish cooking the remaining batches.
• Fresh Butter for Each Batch: To ensure consistent browning and prevent any burnt residue from affecting the flavor, add a fresh pat of unsalted butter to the skillet for each new batch of French toast sticks. This will contribute to a beautiful golden finish and a rich, buttery taste every time.

By diligently following these pro tips, you’ll be able to create Cinnamon Toast Crunch French Toast Sticks that are perfectly golden, wonderfully crispy, and utterly delicious – a guaranteed crowd-pleaser for any breakfast or brunch occasion!