Are you tired of the same old boring breakfast routine? Look no further than French toast sticks, a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast treat that can be cooked to perfection in the oven. In this article, we’ll show you how to cook French toast sticks in the oven, providing you with a simple and mouth-watering breakfast solution that’s perfect for busy mornings.
The Benefits of Cooking French Toast Sticks in the Oven
Cooking French toast sticks in the oven offers several benefits over traditional stovetop methods. For one, it’s much easier to cook large quantities of French toast sticks at once, making it a great option for families or for meal prep. Additionally, oven-cooked French toast sticks are less likely to burn or become too crispy, resulting in a more even and delicious texture.
Health Benefits of Oven-Cooked French Toast Sticks
Oven-cooked French toast sticks are also a healthier option than deep-fried French toast sticks. By cooking the French toast sticks in the oven, you can avoid adding extra oil and calories to your breakfast. This makes oven-cooked French toast sticks a great option for those looking for a healthier breakfast solution.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
To cook French toast sticks in the oven, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably a day-old bread)
- 2 large eggs
- 1 cup of milk
- 1/4 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter, melted
- Cooking spray or oil
- Baking sheet lined with parchment paper
- Oven
Choosing the Right Bread
When it comes to choosing the right bread for French toast sticks, you’ll want to select a bread that’s sturdy enough to hold its shape when cooked. A day-old bread is perfect for French toast sticks, as it’s firmer and less likely to fall apart when cooked.
Instructions for Cooking French Toast Sticks in the Oven
Cooking French toast sticks in the oven is a simple process that requires just a few steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to cooking French toast sticks in the oven:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Make sure to adjust the oven racks to the middle position to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Prepare the Egg Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 3: Cut the Bread
Cut the bread into 1-inch thick slices. You can either cut the bread into sticks or into cubes, depending on your preference.
Step 4: Dip the Bread in the Egg Mixture
Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
Step 5: Place the Bread on the Baking Sheet
Place the coated bread slices on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each slice.
Step 6: Drizzle with Melted Butter
Drizzle the melted butter over the bread slices, making sure each slice is coated with a small amount of butter.
Step 7: Bake the French Toast Sticks
Bake the French toast sticks in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown. Flip the French toast sticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking.
Step 8: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the French toast sticks warm, topped with your favorite toppings such as maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream.
Tips and Variations for Cooking French Toast Sticks in the Oven
Here are some tips and variations to help you take your oven-cooked French toast sticks to the next level:
- Use different types of bread: Experiment with different types of bread, such as Challah or brioche, to add more flavor and texture to your French toast sticks.
- Add flavorings to the egg mixture: Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract or a pinch of salt to the egg mixture to give your French toast sticks an extra boost of flavor.
- Top with fresh fruit: Top your French toast sticks with fresh fruit, such as strawberries or blueberries, for a sweet and healthy breakfast option.
- Make it a dessert: Top your French toast sticks with whipped cream, chocolate chips, or caramel sauce to make it a decadent dessert.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking French Toast Sticks in the Oven
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when cooking French toast sticks in the oven:
- Overcrowding the baking sheet: Make sure to leave enough space between each French toast stick to allow for even cooking.
- Not flipping the French toast sticks: Flip the French toast sticks halfway through the cooking time to ensure even cooking and to prevent burning.
- Overcooking the French toast sticks: Keep an eye on the French toast sticks while they’re cooking and remove them from the oven when they’re golden brown.
Conclusion
Cooking French toast sticks in the oven is a simple and delicious way to start your day. With just a few ingredients and some basic equipment, you can create a mouth-watering breakfast treat that’s perfect for busy mornings. By following the steps outlined in this article and experimenting with different tips and variations, you can take your oven-cooked French toast sticks to the next level and enjoy a delicious breakfast that’s sure to please.
What are the benefits of cooking French toast sticks in the oven?
Cooking French toast sticks in the oven offers several benefits. For one, it allows for even cooking and browning, resulting in a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior. Additionally, oven-cooking eliminates the need for constant monitoring and flipping, making it a convenient and hands-off process.
Another advantage of oven-cooking French toast sticks is that it enables cooking in bulk. Simply line a baking sheet with the desired number of French toast sticks and bake until golden brown. This makes it an ideal method for families or large groups, as it can accommodate multiple servings at once.
What type of bread is best suited for oven-cooked French toast sticks?
The type of bread used for oven-cooked French toast sticks can greatly impact the final result. It’s best to use a sturdy bread that can hold its shape and absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy. Challah or brioche bread works well, as it has a dense texture and a slightly sweet flavor that complements the French toast.
Avoid using flimsy or thin bread, such as white sandwich bread, as it may become too crispy or burnt during the cooking process. Instead, opt for a heartier bread that can withstand the oven heat and retain its texture.
How do I prepare the egg mixture for oven-cooked French toast sticks?
Preparing the egg mixture for oven-cooked French toast sticks is a straightforward process. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, and a pinch of salt until well combined. Add any desired flavorings, such as vanilla extract or cinnamon, and whisk until smooth.
The key to a good egg mixture is to use room temperature eggs and to whisk until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This ensures that the French toast sticks cook evenly and absorb the egg mixture uniformly.
Can I add toppings or fillings to oven-cooked French toast sticks?
Oven-cooked French toast sticks can be customized with a variety of toppings or fillings to suit your taste preferences. Some popular options include fresh fruit, powdered sugar, maple syrup, or whipped cream. You can also add nuts, chocolate chips, or caramel sauce for added flavor and texture.
If you prefer a filled French toast stick, you can add a layer of cream cheese, peanut butter, or Nutella to the bread before cooking. Simply spread a small amount of the filling on one half of the bread, top with the other half, and cook as usual.
How long does it take to cook French toast sticks in the oven?
The cooking time for oven-cooked French toast sticks will depend on the thickness of the bread and the desired level of browning. As a general rule, cook the French toast sticks for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Keep an eye on the French toast sticks during the cooking process, as the cooking time may vary depending on your oven. If you prefer a crisper exterior, you can broil the French toast sticks for an additional 1-2 minutes, watching carefully to avoid burning.
Can I make oven-cooked French toast sticks ahead of time?
While oven-cooked French toast sticks are best served fresh, you can make them ahead of time and reheat as needed. Simply cook the French toast sticks as usual, then let them cool completely on a wire rack.
To reheat, place the French toast sticks on a baking sheet and warm in a low oven (200°F – 250°F) for 5-10 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat individual French toast sticks in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until warm and toasty.
Are oven-cooked French toast sticks a healthy breakfast option?
Oven-cooked French toast sticks can be a relatively healthy breakfast option, depending on the ingredients used. By using whole grain bread and reducing the amount of added sugar, you can create a nutritious breakfast that’s high in fiber and protein.
Additionally, oven-cooking eliminates the need for added oils or butter, making it a lower-fat option compared to pan-frying. Just be mindful of the toppings and fillings you add, as they can greatly impact the nutritional value of the dish.