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Crispy Apple Cinnamon Cream Cheese Stuffed French Toast Sticks

crispy apple cinnamon cream cheese stuffed french toast sticks - featured image

These crispy French toast sticks are stuffed with a creamy cinnamon-spiced apple and cream cheese filling, making for a cozy and indulgent breakfast or brunch treat.

Ingredients

Scale
  • Thick-sliced white or brioche bread (day-old works best)
  • 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and diced (Granny Smith or Fuji)
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup whole milk or 2%
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar, divided
  • Pinch of salt
  • Maple syrup or honey for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Apples: In a small saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add diced apples, 1 tablespoon sugar, and cinnamon. Stir occasionally and cook for about 7-10 minutes until apples are tender but not mushy. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Cream Cheese Filling: In a bowl, whip softened cream cheese with a fork or whisk until smooth and slightly fluffy.
  3. Assemble the Stuffed Bread: Spread about 2 tablespoons of cream cheese on one side of each bread slice. Add a spoonful of cooked apples over the cream cheese, then top with another bread slice, pressing gently to seal. Trim crusts if desired.
  4. Cut into Sticks: Slice each sandwich into 3-4 strips to create French toast sticks.
  5. Make the Egg Mixture: In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, remaining sugar, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
  6. Soak the Sticks: Dip each French toast stick into the egg mixture, turning to coat all sides. Soak about 20 seconds per side.
  7. Cook the Sticks: Heat remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Cook sticks 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully.
  8. Serve Warm: Transfer cooked sticks to a plate or cooling rack to keep crisp. Serve with maple syrup, honey, or powdered sugar if desired.

Notes

Use day-old bread for better soaking without falling apart. Soak sticks about 20 seconds per side to avoid sogginess. Cook on medium heat to get crispy exterior without burning. Cream cheese should be softened and whipped smooth for easy spreading. Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated in the oven at 350°F for 8-10 minutes to maintain crispiness. For gluten-free, use gluten-free bread and almond or oat milk. Vegan adaptations include dairy-free cream cheese, plant-based milk, and flax egg.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast sticks, apple cinnamon, cream cheese, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, stuffed French toast