Baked Mozzarella Sticks

Preheat your toaster oven to the highest temperature setting, or position an oven rack about 6 inches away from the heat source and preheat the broiler to its maximum level. Next, lightly coat a small baking sheet with cooking spray and set it aside for now.

In a separate, small bowl, whisk together an egg until it's smooth. In another small bowl, place a layer of bread crumbs.

Using a toothpick, create a vertical hole in each cheese stick, stopping at the middle point. Dip each cheese stick into the egg mixture, coating it evenly, then roll it in the bread crumbs to create a thick crust. Repeat this process once more to achieve an extra-thick coating.

Place the coated cheese sticks on the prepared baking sheet, making sure to coat them with additional cooking spray for uniform browning.

Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and broil until the cheese sticks are golden brown, taking about 4 to 5 minutes. Once done, allow them to set for a minute before serving.

Note: The cheese sticks are now ready to be served, and they should retain their golden brown color for a short while.