Crispy French Toast Sticks

Step 1

Crack the 2 eggs into a shallow bowl and add 0.25 cup milk, then whisk them together with a fork until the mixture is light yellow and uniform, about 20 seconds.

Step 2

Lay one bread slice flat on the cutting board and cut it straight down the middle lengthwise, creating two long rectangular halves; repeat with the remaining 3 slices.

Step 3

Cut each rectangular half lengthwise again into 2 sticks that are roughly 1 inch wide, creating 8 sticks total; you can cut off the crusts if you prefer, but they are not necessary.

Step 4

Place a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons butter, watching it until it foams and then settles into a clear, golden liquid that coats the pan, about 90 seconds.

Step 5

Take one bread stick, dip both sides into the egg mixture for 1 second per side so it is wet but not soggy, then place it in the hot skillet; repeat until the skillet holds 4 sticks in a single layer without crowding.

Step 6

Cook the sticks without moving them until the bottom is golden brown and looks like caramel in color, 2 to 3 minutes, then use a thin spatula to flip each stick onto its other side.

Step 7

Cook the flipped sticks for another 2 to 3 minutes until the second side is also golden brown and crispy, then remove them to a plate.

Step 8

Repeat steps 5 through 7 with the remaining 4 bread sticks, adding a splash more milk to the egg mixture if it thickens.

Step 9

Arrange all 8 sticks on a serving plate and pour 0.5 cup maple syrup into a small bowl placed next to the plate for dipping.