Mom's French Toast Sandwiches

Mix together cream cheese, walnuts and 1 tsp. vanilla in a small bowl. Spread mixture over 8 bread slices. Top with remaining bread slices. Whisk together half & half, eggs, nutmeg and remaining teaspoon vanilla in a pie pan. Melt 1 tbsp. butter with 1 tbsp. oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Dip both sides of sandwiches in egg mixture to coat. Add half of sandwiches to skillet and cook about 3 minutes per side until golden brown. Repeat with remaining butter, oil and sandwiches. Cut sandwiches into quarters and serve immediately with syrup.