Spicy Mozzarella Sticks with a Twist

Cut mozzarella into 8 plank-shaped pieces, about 1/2-inch thick.

In a shallow dish, mix flour with 1 tsp salt and 1/2 tsp pepper. In another dish, combine beaten eggs with hot sauce. In a third dish, stir together breadcrumbs and 1 Tbsp paprika.

Coat each cheese piece in flour, shaking off excess. Coat with egg mixture and then breadcrumb mixture. Repeat dipping process for remaining cheese.

Freeze breaded cheese on a wire rack for 30 minutes.

Heat oil to 365-375°F (185-190°C) in a deep saucepan.

Combine remaining salt, pepper, and paprika with garlic powder, cayenne, and brown sugar in a heatproof bowl. Mix well.

Carefully lower cheese pieces into hot oil and fry for about 1 minute until golden brown and crisp, turning occasionally. Drain on wire rack.

Combine 1 1/4 cups hot oil from frying with cayenne mixture in the heatproof bowl. Mix well. Coat each cheese stick lightly in seasoned oil and return to wire rack.

Serve with ranch dressing for dipping.