This Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole is a warm and cozy dish perfect for breakfast! It’s made with soft bread, sweet bananas, and a delicious brown sugar topping that melts in your mouth.
Cooking this casserole is super easy—just mix, bake, and enjoy! I love to serve it with a drizzle of maple syrup on top. Who can resist that sweet, sticky goodness? 🍌🥞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A loaf of French bread or challah works perfectly for this casserole. If you’re looking for a whole-grain option, you could use whole wheat bread or even brioche for a richer taste.
Bananas: Overripe bananas are ideal because they are sweeter and mash easily. If you don’t have bananas, you can substitute with apples or berries, though the flavor will change.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but you can replace it with more milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond or coconut cream for a lighter version.
Brown Sugar: While brown sugar gives that molasses flavor, you can use white sugar or coconut sugar if needed. Honey or maple syrup can also be alternatives, but they will alter the texture slightly.
Nuts: Walnuts or pecans add crunch and flavor, but if you have nut allergies, you can skip them entirely or use seeds like sunflower seeds instead.
How Do You Ensure the Perfect Soak for Your Casserole?
The soaking step is crucial for achieving that soft, custardy texture. Here’s how to do it right:
- After you pour the egg mixture, gently press down on the bread with a spatula. This pushes the mixture into the bread for better soaking.
- Cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 2 hours; overnight is the best way to let the bread absorb the flavors.
- Before baking, let the casserole sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This helps it cook evenly.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to making a wonderfully delicious Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole that everyone will love!
Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of French bread or challah, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray for greasing the dish
- Maple syrup, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe requires about 15 minutes of prep time and 1 hour of baking time. Remember to allow for at least 2 hours of chilling time, preferable overnight, so the bread can soak up the egg mixture. In total, you can expect around 3 hours for preparation and cooking, but most of that time is hands-off while your casserole chills and bakes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Oven and Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray to help the casserole come out easily after baking.
2. Make the Custard Mixture:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt. Mix well until everything is nicely combined.
3. Assemble the Casserole:
Take your cubed bread and place it into the greased baking dish. Next, scatter the sliced bananas evenly over the top of the bread. If you like nuts, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over everything for an added crunch!
4. Pour and Press:
Now, pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and banana layers evenly. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread cubes. This will help them soak up the delicious liquid.
5. Chill in the Fridge:
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the casserole to chill for at least 2 hours, or overnight if you have the time. This soaking process is key to making it perfectly custardy!
6. Pre-Bake Preparation:
When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge about 30 minutes beforehand. Preheat your oven to 350°F if needed to ensure it’s nice and hot before baking.
7. Bake the Casserole:
Bake the casserole covered with foil for 30 minutes. After that, carefully remove the foil and bake for another 25-30 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden brown and the custard is set in the middle.
8. Cool and Serve:
Once baked, take the casserole out of the oven and let it cool slightly. To serve, garnish with extra banana slices for a fresh touch. Then, drizzle generously with warm maple syrup for that sweet finish!
Enjoy this cozy and delightful Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole with your friends and family — a perfect dish to enjoy together! 🍌🥞
Can I Use Whole Wheat Bread Instead?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread can be used as a healthier option, giving the casserole a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that it may absorb liquid differently, so adjust the soaking time as needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegan?
Yes! To make a vegan version, substitute the eggs with a mix of 1/4 cup mashed banana or 1/4 cup applesauce per egg. Use almond milk or another non-dairy milk instead of whole milk and omit the heavy cream or replace it with coconut cream.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat individual portions in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Yes! You can freeze the unbaked casserole after assembling it. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. When ready to bake, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake as directed. This can save you time on busy mornings!
