Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks combine the beloved flavors of cinnamon sugar churros with the comforting texture of French toast, all cooked conveniently in a waffle iron. This delightful breakfast treat offers a crispy exterior, a soft and fluffy interior, and a sweet cinnamon-sugar coating that makes every bite irresistible. Whether you’re preparing a special weekend brunch or seeking a fun twist on traditional French toast, these waffle sticks are sure to impress.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• For the cinnamon sugar coating:
  • Granulated sugar
  • Ground cinnamon
• For the French toast waffles:
  • Bread (preferably stale or day-old)
  • Eggs
  • Milk
  • Breadcrumbs
  • Oil (for greasing the waffle iron)
• Optional maple frosting dip:
  • Cream cheese or Greek yogurt
  • Maple syrup

Directions

1. Prepare the cinnamon sugar: In a shallow dish, mix together the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Set aside.
2. Prepare the egg custard: In a separate shallow dish, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined.
3. Prepare the breadcrumbs: Place the breadcrumbs in another shallow dish.
4. Preheat the waffle iron: Lightly grease the waffle iron with oil and preheat it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Prepare the bread: Cut the bread into 1 to 1.5-inch wide slices.
6. Soak the bread: Dip each slice of bread into the egg custard, ensuring both sides are coated. Allow excess custard to drip off.
7. Coat with breadcrumbs: Immediately dip the soaked bread into the breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
8. Cook in the waffle iron: Place the coated bread slices onto the preheated waffle iron and cook until golden brown and crispy, typically 3 to 5 minutes.
9. Coat with cinnamon sugar: While the waffle sticks are still hot, roll them in the prepared cinnamon sugar mixture to coat evenly.
10. Prepare the maple frosting dip (optional): In a small bowl, mix together the cream cheese or Greek yogurt with maple syrup until smooth and creamy.
11. Serve: Arrange the churro French toast waffle sticks on a plate and serve with the optional maple frosting dip on the side.

Nutritional Facts (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Cholesterol: 70 mg
• Sodium: 200 mg
• Potassium: 150 mg
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 20 g
• Vitamin A: 10% DV
• Vitamin C: 2% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 8% DV

The Appeal of Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks

What makes Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks so appealing is the perfect balance of texture and flavor. The crispiness on the outside, achieved by cooking the sticks in a waffle iron, contrasts with the soft, custard-like inside of the bread. The cinnamon sugar coating adds a warm sweetness that brings the whole dish together, offering a flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting.

Additionally, these waffle sticks are highly versatile. They can be served as part of a leisurely breakfast spread, or they can be dressed up for a more indulgent brunch. Whether served with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or a drizzle of syrup, the possibilities are endless. This recipe is not just for those with a sweet tooth; it’s a breakfast that everyone will love, making it perfect for both casual mornings and special occasions.

The Magic of Cinnamon Sugar

One of the defining features of churros is their cinnamon sugar coating, and this is where the magic happens in the Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks. The combination of cinnamon and sugar is not only a classic pairing for sweet dishes, but it also offers a comforting warmth that evokes fond memories of fairgrounds and dessert stands.

The cinnamon sugar mixture adds a layer of sweetness and spice to the crispy waffles, giving them that authentic churro taste. As the waffle sticks cook in the waffle iron, the cinnamon sugar begins to melt and caramelize slightly, creating a delightful texture and flavor contrast. It’s the perfect way to transform the simple ingredients of French toast into something extraordinary.

Why Waffle Irons Are Perfect for French Toast

While French toast is traditionally cooked in a skillet or griddle, using a waffle iron to make the Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks takes the dish to a whole new level. The waffle iron’s design allows for even cooking on both sides of the bread at once, creating a perfectly crisp exterior. The indentations left by the waffle iron give the French toast a fun, waffle-like appearance and texture, adding an extra dimension to the dish.

Additionally, the waffle iron creates a golden-brown crust that helps to seal in the custard-like texture of the bread. This makes each bite of Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks satisfying, with a delicate, airy interior and a crisp, sugary exterior. The waffle iron’s quick cooking time ensures that these sticks are ready in minutes, making it an ideal method for busy mornings or when you want to treat yourself without too much prep time.

Customizing the Recipe for Different Tastes

One of the great things about Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks is their versatility. While the basic recipe is already a delicious treat, it can easily be customized to suit various tastes and preferences. For example, if you prefer a richer French toast, you can add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of nutmeg to the egg custard mixture. A dash of vanilla adds warmth and depth to the flavor profile, while nutmeg offers a hint of spiciness that complements the cinnamon.

For those who prefer a less sweet version, the cinnamon sugar coating can be adjusted or even skipped. You can substitute the sugar for a sugar-free alternative, or simply opt for a light dusting of cinnamon on the waffle sticks after they are cooked. You could even try experimenting with other spices, like cardamom or allspice, to create a different flavor profile.

Additionally, the toppings for Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks can be as simple or as elaborate as you like. For a more indulgent option, you could drizzle them with chocolate syrup, add a dollop of whipped cream, or serve them with a side of fresh fruit for some natural sweetness. If you’re in the mood for something more savory, you could even top the waffle sticks with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of honey for a lighter, yet still delicious, breakfast.

Healthier Alternatives

While Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks are undeniably delicious, they are also a treat that’s best enjoyed in moderation. However, there are ways to make this dish a little healthier without sacrificing flavor. For instance, you could use whole-grain bread instead of white bread for added fiber. Whole-grain bread will also provide more nutrients, helping to make the meal more filling.

In terms of the egg custard, consider using egg whites or a combination of whole eggs and egg whites to reduce the fat content. You could also replace the milk with a plant-based alternative, like almond milk or oat milk, for a dairy-free version.

The cinnamon sugar can be made with a sugar substitute if you’re looking to cut back on the sweetness or reduce the calorie count. You could also try incorporating some ground flaxseeds into the breadcrumbs for a boost of omega-3 fatty acids.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks are not just for everyday breakfasts; they also make a fantastic treat for special occasions. Whether you’re hosting a brunch with friends or celebrating a holiday like Easter or Mother’s Day, these waffle sticks will be a hit. Their fun, bite-sized shape makes them easy to serve and eat, and their sweet, cinnamon-sugar coating ensures that they will appeal to guests of all ages.

For an even more festive touch, you could offer a variety of dipping sauces, like chocolate sauce, caramel sauce, or a fruity compote. The colorful dips will add visual appeal and allow your guests to customize their waffle sticks to their liking.

A Fun Twist for Kids

Kids love finger foods, and Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks are the perfect choice for a fun breakfast that’s both tasty and easy to eat. The waffle sticks are small, making them perfect for little hands to grab and dip into their favorite sauces. Additionally, their sweet, cinnamon flavor is sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. You could even get creative by using cookie cutters to shape the bread into fun, themed shapes like hearts, stars, or animals.

This dish can also be a fun activity for children to help with. From dipping the bread in the egg mixture to rolling it in the cinnamon sugar, there are plenty of steps that little ones can participate in. This can turn breakfast into an interactive family event that everyone will enjoy.

Conclusion

Churro French Toast Waffle Sticks are a delightful and creative way to enjoy two beloved breakfast treats in one. The combination of crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated waffles with the soft, custardy interior of French toast makes for a satisfying and indulgent meal. Whether you’re looking for a fun twist on a classic or a treat to impress your guests, these waffle sticks are sure to become a favorite.