Add the eggs and milk in a large bowl and beat with an electric mixer on high.
Add the sugar, vanilla, and salt to the bowl and mix for 30 seconds
Then add in half the flour and mix until fully incorporated.
Add in the second half of the flour and mix until smooth.
Using a serrated knife cut each slice of bread in half, then slice the halves in half. You should have about 16-24 sticks.
In a large frying pan, melt the oil and butter together. Once the butter is melted and begins to bubble slightly, dip the sticks into the batter; a few at a time.
Allow the excess egg mixture to drain off before adding to the pan. Be careful not to over crowd the pan. I was able to fit about 8 sticks at a time.
Cook for 3-4 mins per side until toasted.
Flip over and the allow the other sides to reach a beautiful golden brown.
Let them rest on paper towels while you fry the others.
Repeat the steps to finish off the remaining sticks.
Notes
If possible, use slightly stale bread for French toast sticks. This helps the bread hold its shape and prevents it from becoming too soggy during cooking.
Do not let the bread sit in the batter to soak, they will fall apart. Only add them to the batter when you are actively preparing to fry them immediately.
If your heat is too high, the oil and butter can burn. If that happens, pour it out and start again to avoid giving your sticks a burnt smell or taste.