These Cinnamon Banana French Toast Sticks are a delightful vegan twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Made with wholesome ingredients like banana, flaxseed, and almond milk, they’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with warm cinnamon flavor. Perfect for a cozy weekend breakfast or brunch!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is everything you love about French toast—just made vegan and snack-sized. It’s easy to make, kid-friendly, and perfect for dipping into maple syrup. The banana not only adds natural sweetness but also helps create the perfect custard texture without eggs. Plus, it’s a great way to use up ripe bananas and slightly stale bread.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
4 slices of bread (use gluten-free bread if preferred)
1 cup dairy-free milk (almond milk works wonderfully)
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
1 medium banana, mashed into a smooth paste
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon oil (canola spray oil or coconut oil, for the pan)
1/3 cup maple syrup (for serving)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for topping)
Directions
Cut the slices of bread into thick sticks and set aside.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mashed banana, almond milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and ground flaxseed until smooth.
Place the mixture in the refrigerator for 10 minutes to allow it to thicken.
Once chilled, whisk the mixture again. Dip each bread stick into the banana mixture, ensuring all sides are well-coated.
Heat a large non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease with oil.
Add 3–4 coated sticks to the pan at a time. Cook each side for about 2 minutes or until golden brown and crisp.
Repeat until all the sticks are cooked.
Serve warm with maple syrup, walnuts, and extra banana slices if desired.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 servings and takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare and cook—10 minutes of prep and 10 minutes of cooking time.
Variations
Spiced French Toast Sticks: Add a pinch of nutmeg or pumpkin pie spice for a warm, aromatic twist.
Chocolate Banana French Toast Sticks: Mix 1 tablespoon of cocoa powder into the batter for a chocolatey version.
Nutty Delight: Replace walnuts with pecans or almonds for a crunchier topping.
Berry Boost: Top with fresh strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries for a fruity finish.
Coconut Bliss: Sprinkle shredded coconut on top before serving for extra flavor and texture.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover French toast sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through and crisp. You can also freeze them for up to 2 months—just reheat directly from frozen in a hot oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 8–10 minutes.
FAQs
1. Can I use any type of bread?
Yes, you can use any bread you like. Slightly stale bread works best because it absorbs the mixture without falling apart.
2. Is this recipe gluten-free?
It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.
3. Can I use a different plant-based milk?
Absolutely! Soy, oat, or coconut milk are all great alternatives.
4. Can I bake the French toast sticks instead of frying?
Yes, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden brown.
5. What can I use instead of flaxseed?
You can use chia seeds as a substitute, but let the mixture sit longer to thicken properly.
6. How do I prevent the bread from becoming soggy?
Don’t soak the bread too long—just a quick dip on all sides will do.
7. Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes, prepare the banana mixture up to 24 hours in advance and keep it refrigerated. Whisk again before using.
8. What toppings go well with these French toast sticks?
Try maple syrup, nut butter, coconut whipped cream, or fresh fruit.
9. Can I make this without oil?
Yes, use a good non-stick pan and dry-cook them carefully until browned.
10. Are these French toast sticks suitable for kids?
Definitely! They’re soft, lightly sweet, and easy for little hands to hold.
Conclusion
These Cinnamon Banana French Toast Sticks are a comforting and easy vegan breakfast that everyone will love. With simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, they’re ideal for busy mornings or leisurely brunches. Enjoy them fresh off the pan with your favorite toppings for a satisfying start to your day.
These Cinnamon Banana French Toast Sticks are a vegan twist on the breakfast classic, made with banana, flaxseed, and almond milk. They’re crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and packed with warm cinnamon flavor — perfect for dipping in maple syrup.
Ingredients
4 slices of bread (use gluten-free bread if preferred)
1 cup dairy-free milk (almond milk recommended)
1 tablespoon ground flaxseed
1 medium banana, mashed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 tablespoon oil (canola spray oil or coconut oil, for pan)
1/3 cup maple syrup (for serving)
1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional, for topping)
Instructions
Cut the slices of bread into thick sticks and set aside.
In a large bowl, whisk together mashed banana, almond milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and ground flaxseed until smooth.
Refrigerate the mixture for 10 minutes to thicken.
Whisk again, then dip each bread stick into the banana mixture, coating all sides.
Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat and lightly grease with oil.
Cook 3–4 coated sticks at a time for about 2 minutes per side until golden brown and crisp.
Repeat with remaining sticks.
Serve warm with maple syrup, walnuts, and extra banana slices if desired.
Notes
Use slightly stale bread for best texture and soak briefly to avoid sogginess.
Chia seeds can substitute flaxseed if needed, but allow extra thickening time.
Use any plant-based milk you prefer: oat, soy, or coconut all work well.
