Two breakfast classics unite in a delightful, grab-and-go format! Get ready to transform your morning routine with these incredible French Toast Waffle Sticks – a perfect blend of crispy, fluffy, and utterly delicious. Forget the forks; these handheld treats are designed for pure eating enjoyment!

Contents

French Toast Waffle Sticks: The Ultimate Fun Breakfast Revolution

There’s something truly special about starting the day with a delicious and satisfying breakfast. While classic staples like buttermilk pancakes, my favorite crispy waffles, wholesome muffins, or hearty biscuits certainly hold a cherished place in our morning lineup, sometimes you just need to shake things up. And that’s exactly how these irresistible French Toast Waffle Sticks came to be! They’ve become an instant family favorite, making frequent and much-anticipated appearances at our breakfast table.

Imagine the best parts of fluffy French toast combined with the delightful crispness and convenient shape of waffles. That’s precisely what these waffle sticks deliver! They’re incredibly simple to prepare, yet yield a breakfast that feels wonderfully indulgent and utterly satisfying. The best part? No forks required, making them ideal for little hands and busy mornings alike. This innovative approach to a breakfast classic brings a touch of whimsy and practicality, elevating an ordinary meal into an exciting culinary adventure.

The beauty of these French Toast Waffle Sticks lies in their straightforward preparation. It all begins with your choice of bread, given a quick dip in a classic, flavorful French toast egg mixture. Then, a few minutes in a hot waffle iron works its magic, transforming the soggy bread into a golden-brown, wonderfully textured stick. A generous sprinkle of cinnamon-sugar as soon as they emerge from the waffle iron adds that perfect touch of sweetness and warmth. Slice them into convenient sticks, serve alongside small bowls of maple syrup for dipping, and watch as smiles light up around the table.

This recipe is not just about making breakfast; it’s about creating a moment. Whether it’s a leisurely weekend brunch or a hurried weekday morning, these waffle sticks offer a versatile and universally loved option that truly makes breakfast fun for everyone.

Unlocking the Perfect French Toast Waffle Sticks: Tips for Success

Crafting these delicious French Toast Waffle Sticks is surprisingly simple, but a few key techniques can elevate your results from good to absolutely amazing. The magic truly happens when the classic French toast custard meets the unique cooking power of a waffle iron. Here’s a deeper dive into the process to ensure every batch is perfect.

Choosing the Right Bread: Foundation of Flavor

The foundation of any great French toast is the bread, and the same holds true for these waffle sticks. While almost any type of bread will work, experimenting with different varieties can lead to delightful textural and flavor variations. Thicker slices, ideally 1/2 to 1 inch thick, tend to yield the best results as they can withstand the egg mixture without becoming too soggy and develop a fantastic inner custardy texture within the waffle iron. Options like brioche, challah, or sourdough are excellent for a rich, buttery flavor and a tender crumb. However, don’t hesitate to use everyday white bread or wholesome whole wheat for a simpler, yet equally satisfying, outcome. Even multi-grain breads add a pleasant nutty note. The robust heat of the waffle iron ensures a crispy exterior, regardless of your chosen bread, so feel free to use what you have on hand or what your family prefers.

Crafting the Ideal Egg Mixture: The Custard’s Secret

The egg mixture, or custard, is what imbues the bread with that signature French toast flavor and moist interior. A well-balanced mixture is crucial. Beat the eggs until light and frothy to incorporate air, which contributes to a lighter final product. Whole milk adds richness, while a splash of vanilla extract provides a comforting aroma and taste. The addition of a teaspoon of cinnamon-sugar mixture directly into the custard introduces a subtle sweetness and spice that permeates every bite.

The key to perfect waffle sticks lies in how you dip the bread. A “quick dip” on both sides is essential. You want to coat the bread thoroughly but swiftly, allowing just enough of the egg mixture to adhere without saturating the bread completely. Over-soaked bread can fall apart in the waffle iron and result in a mushy texture. However, if you’re using a denser bread, such as a day-old artisan loaf, you might find that it can handle a slightly longer soak to absorb more flavor, potentially requiring a doubled egg mixture for sufficient coverage.

The Waffle Iron Advantage: Crispy Perfection

Your waffle iron is the star player in this recipe. Preheat it thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. A hot waffle iron is critical for achieving that beautiful golden-brown color and desirable crispy exterior. Don’t forget to spray your waffle iron with a non-stick cooking spray before each batch, even if it claims to be non-stick, to prevent sticking and ensure easy removal of your waffle sticks. Cook the bread until it’s perfectly golden and wonderfully crisp, typically 3-5 minutes, though cooking times can vary depending on your waffle iron and desired level of crispness.

How to Make French Toast Waffle Sticks: A Simple Guide

Ready to create these breakfast marvels? Follow these straightforward steps for a delightful start to your day:

Prepare Your Waffle Iron: Begin by preheating your waffle iron to the recommended setting according to its brand and model directions. Ensuring it’s hot enough is key for that perfect crisp.
Mix Cinnamon-Sugar: In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Stir well to ensure it’s evenly mixed, then set this aromatic blend aside. This will be your finishing touch.
Whisk the Custard: In a medium mixing bowl, gently beat the large eggs with a whisk until they are light and slightly frothy. Next, add the milk, vanilla extract, and one teaspoon of your prepared cinnamon-sugar mixture. Whisk everything together until all ingredients are thoroughly combined and smooth. Transfer this liquid gold to a shallow baking dish, which will make dipping the bread much easier.
Dip the Bread: Working in batches, dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture. Ensure both sides are quickly coated, but do not allow the bread to soak. The goal is to coat it just enough so that it’s moist but still firm enough to transfer to the waffle maker without falling apart. A quick dip prevents a soggy final product. (Chef’s Tip: If you’re using an unusually dense or dry bread, a slightly longer dip might be necessary, but be mindful not to over-saturate. You may need to prepare a double batch of the egg mixture if you plan to use a very absorbent bread for all slices.)
Waffle Time! Lightly spray your preheated waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray. Carefully place as many dipped bread slices as will comfortably fit into your waffle iron. Close the lid and cook for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until the French toast waffle is beautifully golden brown and delightfully crispy on the outside. Cooking times may vary, so keep an eye on it.
Finish and Serve: Once cooked, carefully transfer the waffled French toast to a clean cutting board. Immediately and generously sprinkle it with some of the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture while it’s still hot. Using a sharp knife or pizza cutter, slice the waffled French toast into convenient, dippable sticks. Arrange them on a platter and serve warm with individual small bowls of maple syrup for dipping.

These simple steps will guide you to a breakfast that’s both fun and incredibly tasty, making mornings a little more special and a lot more delicious.

I often find myself preparing these delightful French Toast Waffle Sticks while tackling other morning tasks, like packing school lunches for my boys. By the time I’m done, a magnificent platter, overflowing with these irresistible treats, awaits us. The anticipation alone is enough to bring everyone to the table, eager for that first bite. They emerge from the waffle iron perfectly crispy and golden on the outside, giving way to a wonderfully soft and slightly creamy interior. That contrast of textures, combined with the sweet cinnamon aroma, is simply heavenly – a true “mmmm…mmmm!” moment for the whole family.

One of the many joys of this recipe is its adaptability to different types of bread. I’ve experimented with various loaves, and each batch has turned out wonderfully. While a thicker bread often provides a more substantial bite and a richer interior, the beauty of the waffle iron is that it can crisp up almost anything. Whether you reach for classic white bread, hearty whole wheat, rich challah or brioche, tangy sourdough, or a wholesome multi-grain loaf, the results are consistently delicious. It truly comes down to personal preference and what you happen to have stocked in your pantry.

These French Toast Waffle Sticks have quickly risen through the ranks to become as popular as traditional pancakes in our household. I absolutely love how easily I can incorporate them into our breakfast menu, even on busy weekdays, without feeling overwhelmed by the preparation. The process is quick, clean, and yields maximum flavor with minimal effort. For those really hectic mornings, I often double the batch. The leftovers store beautifully in the refrigerator and reheat like a dream in the oven, emerging crispy and warm, ready to sweeten even the craziest of starts to the day.

While they are an absolute lifesaver for speedy weekday breakfasts, these waffle sticks also shine as the centerpiece for special weekend brunches or leisurely family meals. Imagine a grand platter piled high with these golden French Toast Waffle Sticks, surrounded by a vibrant bowl of fresh seasonal fruits, perfectly scrambled eggs, and a generous stack of crispy bacon or savory sausage. Oh my, that sounds like a perfect Sunday morning, doesn’t it? It’s a spread that promises both deliciousness and comfort, a truly memorable meal that brings everyone together.

Beyond maple syrup, consider an array of delightful toppings to customize your French Toast Waffle Sticks experience. A dusting of powdered sugar adds an elegant finish, while a dollop of whipped cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce can transform them into a dessert-like treat. Fresh berries – strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries – provide a burst of fresh flavor and beautiful color. For an extra crunch, sprinkle on some chopped nuts or a touch of toasted coconut. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to tailor this versatile dish to any palate or occasion.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy breakfast solution, a fun and interactive meal for the kids, or an impressive dish for your next brunch gathering, these French Toast Waffle Sticks are guaranteed to be a hit. Their unique texture, delightful flavor, and simple preparation make them a truly indispensable recipe for any home cook. So go ahead, plug in that waffle iron, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a breakfast experience that’s anything but ordinary.

Enjoy every delightful bite!

xoxo,

French Toast Waffle Sticks

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star
5 from 1 review

Author: Maegan – The BakerMama
Prep Time: 5 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Yield: 32 sticks
Category: Breakfast

Print Recipe

Description

These French Toast Waffle Sticks bring together two beloved breakfast dishes into one incredibly fun, fork-free treat. Perfect for busy mornings, special brunches, or simply a delightful way to start your day, they’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and endlessly customizable with your favorite toppings.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons granulated sugar
2 teaspoons cinnamon
8 slices bread, 1/2-1 inch thick (such as white, whole wheat, challah, brioche, sourdough, etc.)
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
maple syrup, for dipping and serving

Instructions

Preheat your waffle iron according to its specific brand and model directions to ensure optimal cooking.
In a small bowl, combine the granulated sugar and cinnamon, mixing well until evenly blended. Set aside for later use.
In a medium mixing bowl, whisk the eggs until they are light and slightly frothy. Incorporate the milk, vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of the previously mixed cinnamon-sugar. Beat thoroughly until the custard is smooth and well combined. Pour this mixture into a shallow baking dish, ready for bread dipping.
Taking as many bread slices as your waffle iron can accommodate at once, quickly dip each slice into the egg mixture. Ensure both sides are coated, but avoid soaking the bread. The goal is to moisten it just enough to retain its structure, allowing for easy transfer to the waffle maker. (For very dense breads, a slightly longer dip might be beneficial, but be prepared to double the egg mixture if needed.)
Lightly spray the preheated waffle iron with non-stick cooking spray. Carefully place the dipped bread slices into the waffle iron, close the lid, and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the French toast appears golden brown and crispy to your liking.
Once cooked, transfer the waffled French toast to a cutting board. Immediately sprinkle a generous amount of the reserved cinnamon-sugar mixture over the hot surface. Slice into convenient sticks and serve them warm with maple syrup on the side for dipping.

Notes

Should you have any French Toast Waffle Sticks remaining, store them in an airtight bag or container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For reheating, place them on a baking sheet and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5-10 minutes, or until they are hot and have regained their delightful crispness. This method ensures they taste almost as good as fresh!