French Toast Sticks in 25 Minutes

Instructions:

1. Cut each slice of thick bread into three equal vertical strips to create the sticks.
2. In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and salt until smooth.
3. Quickly dip each bread stick into the custard for two seconds per side and flip immediately to avoid over-saturation.
4. Pour vegetable oil into a skillet until 1 inch deep and heat over medium-high until a bread cube sizzles upon contact.
5. Fry sticks in batches of 4–6 for 2–3 minutes per side until a deep mahogany-colored crust forms.
6. Transfer sticks to a paper towel-lined plate for 30 seconds to drain excess oil.
7. Stir together granulated sugar and 1 tsp cinnamon in a medium bowl.
8. Toss the hot fried sticks in the cinnamon-sugar mixture until evenly coated.
9. Place on a wire rack for 1 minute to allow the sugar coating to set.