April Fools' Fries: Cinnamon-Sugar Sticks

This morning I played an April Fools' joke on my kids by serving them Cinnamon-Sugar Sticks that look like french fries with ketchup. This recipe definitely isn't a meal but it is a fun prank. After a few of the cinnamon sticks, the kids were ready for a real breakfast. The small amount of effort in making the Cinnamon-Sugar Sticks was worth it for the smiles I received.

The Cinnamon-Sugar Sticks are super easy to make, although I complicated things by not using a deep-fry thermometer. Because of this, it took a few small batches before I got the temperature right. I tried frying both stale and fresh bread; both work but the stale bread is a sturdier. Happy April Fools' Day!   

April Fools' Fries: Cinnamon-Sugar Sticks

-recipe from Food Network Magazine

Heat 2 inches of vegetable oil to 365 degrees F in a deep skillet. Mix 1/2 cup sugar and 1 to 2 tablespoons cinnamon on a plate. Cut stale white bread into sticks and fry until golden, about 1 minute. Drain on paper towels, then roll in the cinnamon-sugar while still hot. Serve with strawberry jelly as ketchup.