Cinnamon and Raisin French Toast

1 (16 ounce) loaf raisin bread, sliced
4 eggs
2 cups milk
2 tablespoons ground cinnamon
2 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract
Nonstick cooking spray or butter

Syrup:
1/2 cup raisins
1 (8 ounce) bottle pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon cinnamon

In a large mixing bowl, mix together eggs, milk, cinnamon and vanilla extract with a whisk until eggs are incorporated into mixture well.

Spray a griddle with nonstick cooking spray or melt 1 teaspoon of butter on griddle and spread around. Dip one slice of raisin bread at a time into egg mixture until both sides are coated with the egg mixture. Place on griddle and cook until brown on both sides. Place on an ovenproof platter and place in a warm (200 degree F) oven until you finish the remaining French toast.

In a saucepan mix raisins, syrup and cinnamon together. Heat until bubbles form around outside of pan. Drizzle syrup over warm French toast.