•- 1 loaf white bread or brioche, day-old preferred
•- 3 large eggs
•- ½ cup whole milk
•- 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
•- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
•- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
•- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
•- Pinch of salt
•- Vegetable oil for frying (about 2 cups for deep frying)
•- 3 tablespoons powdered sugar for dusting
•- Maple syrup for serving
Instructions
1Slice bread into uniform sticks measuring ¾ inch thick and 3-4 inches long, creating even rectangular pieces for consistent cooking.
2Whisk together eggs, whole milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, granulated sugar, nutmeg, and salt in a shallow bowl until completely combined and sugar dissolves, about 1 minute.
3Pour vegetable oil into a heavy-bottomed skillet or deep fryer to a depth of 2 inches. Heat oil to 350-375°F, monitoring with a kitchen thermometer for accuracy.
4Dip each bread stick quickly into the egg mixture, coating all sides but avoiding over-saturation which causes sogginess, about 2-3 seconds per stick.
5Place coated sticks carefully into hot oil, working in batches of 4-5 pieces to prevent temperature drops and ensure even browning. Fry until deep golden brown on all sides, turning once halfway through, about 2-3 minutes total.
6Remove finished sticks with a slotted spoon or tongs. Transfer immediately to paper towel-lined plates, allowing excess oil to drain for 30 seconds.
7Dust warm French toast sticks generously with powdered sugar while still hot, ensuring even coverage for that signature sweet coating.
8Arrange sticks on serving plates in neat rows or standing upright in a cup. Serve immediately alongside warm maple syrup for dipping to recreate the authentic fast-food breakfast experience.