Get ready to welcome a beloved breakfast classic back to your table, transformed into a wholesome and satisfying treat that supports your healthy lifestyle! Imagine perfectly golden, slightly crisp-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside French toast sticks, baked to perfection and naturally sweetened, ready to be dipped or topped with vibrant fresh berries. This Baked Whole Wheat Protein French Toast Stick recipe delivers all the comforting flavors and fun of traditional French toast sticks but uses whole wheat bread, a protein-boosted egg mixture, and a baking method to significantly reduce fat and unnecessary sugars, creating a delicious, guilt-free breakfast or brunch. Perfect for busy mornings when you need something quick yet nourishing, a fantastic way to satisfy a sweet craving healthily, or when you simply want a fun, dippable breakfast treat, these sticks are sure to be a hit with the whole family. You won’t believe how easy and delightful healthy can be!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 35-40 mins (includes baking time)
Servings: 4 (about 3-4 sticks per serving)
Ingredients:
For the Baked French Toast Sticks:
- 6-8 Slices Whole Wheat Bread, preferably slightly stale, cut into 3-4 sticks per slice
- 2 Large Eggs
- 2 Large Egg Whites
- ½ cup Unsweetened Almond Milk or Skim Milk
- 1 tsp Pure Vanilla Extract
- 1 tsp Ground Cinnamon
- ½ tsp Ground Nutmeg (optional)
- 1-2 tbsp Pure Maple Syrup or a few drops Liquid Stevia (optional, for a touch of sweetness in the batter)
- Pinch Salt
- Olive Oil Spray or Coconut Oil Spray
For Serving (Healthy Topping Ideas):
- 1-2 cups Mixed Fresh Berries, (like blueberries and raspberries, as pictured)
- A light dusting of Powdered Erythritol or Monk Fruit Sweetener (instead of regular powdered sugar)
- A drizzle of Pure Maple Syrup, (use sparingly)
- Plain Non-Fat Greek Yogurt, for dipping or a dollop on top
- A sprinkle of Chopped Nuts or Seeds, (like almonds, walnuts, or chia seeds for added crunch and healthy fats)
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven & Prepare Pan: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper and lightly spray it with Olive Oil Spray or Coconut Oil Spray.
- Prepare Bread Sticks: If you haven’t already, cut each slice of Whole Wheat Bread into 3 or 4 evenly sized sticks. Set aside. Using slightly stale bread helps the sticks hold their shape and absorb the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Make the Egg Mixture: In a shallow dish or pie plate, whisk together the Large Eggs, Egg Whites, Unsweetened Almond Milk (or Skim Milk), Vanilla Extract, Ground Cinnamon, Nutmeg (if using), Maple Syrup/Stevia (if using), and Pinch of Salt until well combined and frothy.
- Dip the Bread Sticks: Working one at a time, quickly dip each bread stick into the egg mixture, ensuring all sides are lightly coated but not overly saturated. You want them moist, not soggy. Let any excess egg mixture drip off.
- Arrange on Baking Sheet: Place the dipped bread sticks in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet, making sure they are not touching. This allows them to bake evenly and get crispy on all sides.
- Bake the French Toast Sticks: Bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping the sticks halfway through, until they are golden brown, slightly puffed, and feel somewhat firm to the touch. Baking time may vary slightly depending on the thickness of your bread and your oven.
- Check for Doneness: The French toast sticks should be nicely browned and no longer wet in the center.
- Serve Warm: Once baked, remove the French toast sticks from the oven.
- Plate and Garnish: Serve the Baked Whole Wheat Protein French Toast Sticks warm, arranged on a plate. Garnish with your favorite Healthy Toppings like Mixed Fresh Berries, a light dusting of Powdered Erythritol, a drizzle of Pure Maple Syrup, or a side of Greek Yogurt for dipping. Enjoy your wonderfully healthy and delicious breakfast treat!
Recipe Notes:
- Best Bread Choice: Slightly stale, sturdy whole wheat bread works best. If your bread is very fresh, you can lightly toast the slices or leave them out on the counter for a few hours to dry out a bit.
- Achieving Crispiness: Baking on parchment paper helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning. Flipping them halfway is key for crispiness on all sides. For extra crispiness, you can broil them for the last 1-2 minutes, watching very carefully to prevent burning.
- Avoid Over-Soaking: Dip the bread sticks quickly. If they absorb too much liquid, they can become soggy rather than pleasantly custardy and crisp.
- Protein Boost: Using a combination of whole eggs and egg whites increases the protein content while keeping the fat moderate, making these sticks more satiating.
- Sweetness Control: The sweetness is intentionally kept moderate in the batter, allowing you to control the overall sugar by choosing your toppings wisely. Fresh fruit is a great natural sweetener.
- Flavor Variations: Add a pinch of cardamom to the egg mixture for a different spice note, or a little orange zest for a citrusy brightness.
- Make-Ahead Potential: You can prepare the egg mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. The baked sticks are best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored.
- Batch Cooking: This recipe can easily be doubled if you’re serving a larger group or want leftovers. Use multiple baking sheets if needed, ensuring not to overcrowd them.
- Storage and Reheating: Store leftover baked French toast sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in a toaster, oven, or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through and re-crisped. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain crispiness.
There you have it – incredibly delicious, fun-to-eat, and healthy Baked Whole Wheat Protein French Toast Sticks that are perfect for a satisfying breakfast or a delightful brunch! This recipe will quickly become a go-to for its ease, flavor, and family-friendly appeal. We hope you enjoy this guilt-free way to enjoy a breakfast classic! Happy baking!
