Can French Toast Sticks Go Bad : What You MUST Know

But, like any food, they have a limited shelf life and can eventually go bad. Understanding how to store them properly and identifying the signs of spoilage will help you keep them safe and delicious for longer.

So, let’s dive in-how long can you really keep French toast sticks, and how do you know if they’ve gone bad?

Can French Toast Sticks Go Bad?

Yes, French toast sticks can absolutely go bad. While they may seem like they can last indefinitely (after all, who would leave French toast sticks hanging around long enough for them to spoil?), they have a shelf life. The preservatives in store-bought frozen versions can extend their freshness, but even those will eventually degrade.

Homemade French toast sticks, in particular, are highly perishable because they contain ingredients like eggs, milk, and bread-components that spoil relatively quickly when left at room temperature or improperly stored. The real question isn’t just can they go bad, but how and why they go bad.

So, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of that.

Shelf Life For French Toast Sticks

The shelf life of French toast sticks depends on several factors: whether they are homemade or store-bought, how they’re stored, and whether they are cooked fresh or frozen.

1. Homemade French Toast Sticks

   • Refrigerator: If you’ve made them yourself and have leftover French toast sticks, they can last 3-4 days in the fridge. The combination of eggs and dairy makes them susceptible to rapid bacterial growth if left out for too long.
   • Freezer: If you want to extend their lifespan, freezing them is the best option. Homemade French toast sticks can be frozen for up to 2 months without losing much quality.

2. Store-Bought Frozen French Toast Sticks

   • Unopened package: If you haven’t opened the package, store-bought frozen French toast sticks can last for 6-12 months in the freezer. These are often loaded with preservatives, which helps prolong their shelf life.
   • Opened package: Once opened, store-bought French toast sticks can last about 2-3 months in the freezer, as long as they are properly sealed and stored.

3. Prepared Store-Bought French Toast Sticks

   • Once you’ve cooked them, store-bought French toast sticks follow the same timeline as homemade ones: they can last 3-4 days in the refrigerator, or up to 2 months in the freezer.

Note: The longer you keep French toast sticks, whether homemade or store-bought, the more likely they are to lose flavor, texture, and overall appeal. Freezing is a great way to preserve them, but quality can start to diminish after extended storage.

Common Signs Of Spoilage

Even though French toast sticks might be fun and easy to eat, there are a few things to watch for to know when they’ve crossed over from "tasty" to "time to toss." Here’s what to look for:

1. Smell: The first and most obvious sign is a sour or off smell. If you notice any rancid or sour odor, it’s a clear indicator that the French toast sticks are no longer safe to eat.
2. Texture: If the French toast sticks become overly soggy or slimy, it means they’ve started to degrade. This can happen when they’ve been sitting in the fridge too long or haven’t been sealed well when stored.
3. Color Changes: French toast sticks that have turned a strange, darkened color or developed mold spots should be thrown away immediately. Any discoloration beyond the normal browning from cooking is a red flag.
4. Off-Taste: If you take a bite and the flavor is unpleasant or noticeably “off”, even though the sticks seem fine in other ways, that’s another sign they’ve spoiled.
5. Freezer Burn (for Frozen Sticks): When frozen French toast sticks develop ice crystals or dry spots from exposure to air, they can suffer from freezer burn. While technically still safe to eat, they will have a terrible taste and texture. The best course of action is to toss them if freezer burn is severe.

How To Store French Toast Sticks?

Proper storage is key to prolonging the shelf life of your French toast sticks and keeping them tasting fresh. Here’s how you can make sure your breakfast treat stays safe and delicious for as long as possible:

1. Homemade French Toast Sticks

   • In the Fridge: If you plan on eating them within a few days, store your French toast sticks in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Keep them in the fridge, where they will last 3-4 days.
   • In the Freezer: For longer storage, place the cooked French toast sticks in a freezer-safe zip-top bag or airtight container. Make sure to remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. You can also freeze them in a single layer first on a baking sheet before transferring to a bag, which prevents them from sticking together. This way, they stay good for up to 2 months.

2. Store-Bought Frozen French Toast Sticks

   • Unopened Package: Store the unopened box in the freezer at 0°F (-18°C) or lower. Keep it tightly sealed to avoid freezer burn.
   • Opened Package: After opening, transfer any remaining French toast sticks to a sealed bag or airtight container to prevent exposure to air, moisture, and ice crystals. They’ll last for 2-3 months in the freezer this way.

Expert Tips

1. Reheating Properly: When reheating French toast sticks, whether from the fridge or freezer, aim for a method that will restore their crispy texture. Reheat them in the oven or toaster oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes, flipping halfway through. If using the microwave, be aware that they’ll become soggy.
2. Avoid Overcrowding in Freezer: When freezing French toast sticks, don’t just dump them all together in a container. Lay them flat on a baking sheet in a single layer first, freeze for an hour or so, then transfer them into a bag or container. This way, they won’t stick together and will be easier to grab when you need them.
3. Make a Big Batch: If you’re making homemade French toast sticks, it’s a good idea to make extra and freeze them in portions. That way, you’ll always have a breakfast option ready to go without worrying about spoilage.
4. Double-Check the Expiry Date: If you’re using store-bought frozen French toast sticks, always check the expiration date on the package before purchasing. Even though they last a while, they do have a shelf life.

FAQs

Can French Toast Sticks Go Bad If Left Out Overnight?

Yes, French toast sticks can go bad if left out overnight. Perishable foods, including cooked French toast sticks, should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours. After this period, bacteria can begin to grow, increasing the risk of foodborne illness.

How Long Do French Toast Sticks Last In The Fridge?

French toast sticks can typically last in the fridge for up to 3 to 5 days when stored properly in an airtight container. It’s important to ensure they are fully cooled before refrigeration to prevent condensation and moisture buildup.

How Can I Tell If French Toast Sticks Have Gone Bad?

Signs that French toast sticks have gone bad include an off or sour smell, mold growth, or a slimy texture. If they are discolored, dried out, or have an unusual odor, it’s best to discard them.

Can I Freeze French Toast Sticks To Extend Their Shelf Life?

Yes, you can freeze French toast sticks to extend their shelf life. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and they can last for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, reheat them in the oven or toaster for best results.

Can French Toast Sticks Be Reheated After Being Frozen?

Yes, frozen French toast sticks can be reheated. It’s best to reheat them in an oven or toaster oven to keep them crispy. You can also microwave them, but they may lose their crispiness.

Do French Toast Sticks Spoil Faster If They Contain Toppings Like Syrup Or Butter?

Yes, French toast sticks with toppings such as syrup or butter may spoil faster than plain ones. These toppings introduce moisture and additional ingredients that can accelerate bacterial growth. It’s best to store them separately or eat them within a shorter period.

Is It Safe To Eat French Toast Sticks Past Their Expiration Date?

While French toast sticks may still be safe to eat a few days past their expiration date, it’s important to check for signs of spoilage, such as changes in texture, smell, or appearance. Always prioritize your safety by using the ’smell, look, and feel’ test.

Can French Toast Sticks Go Bad If They Are Made From Stale Bread?

If French toast sticks are made from stale bread, they are likely to have a dry texture and may go bad more quickly. The stale bread itself doesn’t necessarily make them unsafe, but the texture and taste will be compromised.

How Should French Toast Sticks Be Stored To Keep Them Fresh?

To keep French toast sticks fresh, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight bag or container. Always ensure they are fully cooled before storing to avoid condensation.

Can French Toast Sticks Go Bad If They Are Not Cooked Properly?

Yes, undercooked French toast sticks can go bad or pose a food safety risk. If the eggs and milk mixture is not fully cooked through, it can lead to bacterial growth. Always ensure the sticks are cooked thoroughly, with no raw batter inside.