Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

Name: Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 slices bread (thick, such as Texas toast); 1 cup milk; 0.5 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling); 2 large eggs; 1 tsp pumpkin pie spice; 0.5 tsp vanilla extract

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By: Maria
Posted: 05/19/2025

Looking for a cozy breakfast idea that captures the essence of fall? Look no further than these delightful Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks. Packed with seasonal flavors, this simple yet satisfying recipe is perfect for a quick morning treat or a special weekend brunch. The golden, crispy texture combined with the warm, spiced pumpkin flavor will make it a family favorite.

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I remember the first time my family gathered to try out this recipe, and the delightful aroma quickly filled the kitchen. It instantly reminded me of the cozy fall mornings of my childhood, when we’d eagerly await my grandmother’s special pumpkin concoctions. It was a joy to share a modern twist on those beloved memories with my own family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe for pumpkin french toast sticks is perfect because it’s incredibly easy to prepare and finished in the Air Fryer for a quick cook time. The pumpkin puree adds moisture while infusing each bite with a delightful autumn flavor. Not only is the texture perfectly balanced between crispy and tender, but it’s also a great dish to make ahead for busy mornings.

Ingredients Notes

Start with thick-sliced bread like brioche or Texas toast for the best structure. Use canned pumpkin puree, not pumpkin pie filling, to control the sugar and spice levels. A mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice will bring out the characteristic Pumpkin Spice taste. Feel free to use any milk you prefer—dairy or non-dairy works well!

Recipe Steps

Step 1

Preheat your Air Fryer to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the french toast sticks cook evenly and become deliciously crispy.

Step 2

In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs, pumpkin puree, milk, sugar, vanilla extract, and spices until well combined.

Step 3

Cut each slice of bread into thirds, creating even sticks. Dip each stick into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring it’s coated well but not soggy.

Step 4

Arrange the soaked bread sticks in the Air Fryer basket in a single layer, being careful not to overcrowd. You may need to work in batches.

Step 5

Air fry the sticks for 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re golden brown and crispy. Serve warm, dusted with powdered sugar or accompanied by maple syrup.

Storage Options

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. For a longer shelf life, freeze the cooked and cooled french toast sticks on a baking sheet before transferring them to a zip-top freezer bag. Reheat in the air fryer or microwave until warmed through before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

For a dairy-free option, substitute almond milk and use a non-dairy yogurt in place of regular milk. Add a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts for extra texture, or try dipping them in a chocolate sauce for a dessert-like twist.

Serving Suggestions

These french toast sticks are perfect for a cozy breakfast, paired with a steaming mug of coffee or hot apple cider. They also make an excellent addition to a brunch spread or a delightful after-school snack for kids. Serve alongside fresh fruit for a balanced meal.

frequently asked questions

Can I make these ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin mixture and slice the bread the night before, keeping them separate in the refrigerator. In the morning, simply dip the bread sticks and air fry them fresh for the best texture.

What type of bread works best? Opt for soft bread like brioche, challah, or thick Texas toast. These options soak up the pumpkin mixture well and create a sturdy, flavorful stick. Rustic or whole grain breads are less ideal due to their denser texture.

Can I adjust the spices? Absolutely! Feel free to increase or decrease the amounts of cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to your liking. You can even add a pinch of clove or ground ginger for additional warmth and complexity.

With minimal prep and maximum flavor, these pumpkin french toast sticks are a breakfast triumph. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet morning alone or feeding a hungry crowd, this recipe brings seasonal cheer to any table. Enjoy the delicious symphony of pumpkin spice, crisp textures, and sweet, satisfying taste in every bite!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the pumpkin french toast sticks ahead of time and how should I store them?

Yes, you can prepare the pumpkin mixture and cut the bread sticks the night before, storing them separately in the refrigerator. In the morning, dip the bread sticks and air fry them fresh for the best texture and crispiness. Leftover cooked french toast sticks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days or frozen for longer storage; freeze them individually on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.

What kind of bread is best for making these pumpkin french toast sticks?

The best bread choices for this recipe are soft, thick-cut breads like brioche, challah, or Texas toast. These breads absorb the pumpkin mixture beautifully, resulting in a tender interior and a perfectly crisp exterior when air fried. Avoid using very dense or rustic breads, as they may not absorb the mixture as well and could become tough.

How do I know when the pumpkin french toast sticks are perfectly cooked in the air fryer?

The pumpkin french toast sticks are perfectly cooked when they are golden brown and crispy on the outside. This typically takes about 6-8 minutes in a preheated air fryer at 375°F (190°C), flipping halfway through. You can also gently press on a stick; it should feel firm and not overly soft or soggy.

Can I double or triple this recipe to make more french toast sticks?

Yes, you can easily scale up this recipe. If doubling or tripling, you may need to cook the french toast sticks in multiple batches to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket. Adjust the cooking time slightly, keeping a close eye on them to ensure they don’t burn. Be sure to whisk together the ingredients thoroughly in a larger bowl to accommodate the increased quantities.

What are the nutritional benefits of the ingredients in these pumpkin french toast sticks?

This recipe offers several nutritional benefits. Pumpkin puree provides Vitamin A and fiber, while eggs contribute protein and essential nutrients. Milk adds calcium and Vitamin D. The spices, such as cinnamon and nutmeg, offer antioxidants. Consider serving with fresh fruit for added vitamins, minerals, and fiber to create a more balanced breakfast.

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Air Fryer Pumpkin French Toast Sticks

A delicious fall-inspired twist on classic French toast sticks, using pumpkin puree and the air fryer for a quick and healthy breakfast!

Prep : 10 Total : 25 minutes

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Ingredients

Main Ingredients

4 slices bread thick, such as Texas toast
1 cup milk
0.5 cup pumpkin puree not pumpkin pie filling
2 large eggs
1 tsp pumpkin pie spice
0.5 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cut each slice of bread into four sticks.
In a large bowl, whisk together milk, pumpkin puree, eggs, pumpkin pie spice, and vanilla extract.
Dip each bread stick into the pumpkin mixture, ensuring it is fully coated.
Place coated bread sticks in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
Air fry at 350°F for 10-12 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.