Ingredients:

4 eggs

2/3 cup milk

6 tablespoons melted butter, divided

2 tablespoons sugar

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, divided

1 teaspoon vanilla

8 pieces hearty bread (cottage or French)

1/2 cup real maple syrup

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. Butter 2 baking sheets.

Whisk together eggs, milk, 4 tablespoons melted butter, sugar, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon, and vanilla in a large, shallow dish. Cut bread slices into thirds to make sticks, then dip in egg mixture and place onto prepared baking sheets, 12 sticks to a sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown, flipping halfway through.

For Cinnamon Maple Syrup:

Heat remaining butter, cinnamon, and maple syrup in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir until butter is melted. Serve warm.