Make your own French toast sticks or use ready made. Lightly grease a 3 quart casserole dish with shortening. Place sliced French toast sticks on the bottom of prepared dish. Set aside.

In a large bowl whisk together cinnamon, vanilla, brown sugar, salt, pepper, eggs, half and half, maple syrup and cream cheese. Whisk together well. Slowly pour over French toast sticks. With the back of a spoon, press French toast sticks into milk/egg mixture.

Cover dish with foil. Refrigerate overnight.

Remove covered dish from refrigerator. Allow dish to sit at room temperature for 30-45 minutes. Preheat oven to 375 degrees.

Bake for 45 minutes. Uncover and bake an additional 10-15 minutes or until top is golden brown. Serve with additional maple syrup.