Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole
This Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole is a decadent breakfast or brunch dish that combines the comforting flavors of caramelized bananas and brown sugar with rich, custardy French toast. Perfect for feeding a crowd or indulging in a lazy weekend treat, this dish is easy to prepare and full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast, Brunch
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
- For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of brioche or challah bread, cubed
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bread:
Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish. Spread the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Layer the sliced bananas on top of the bread cubes. - Make the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined. - Assemble the Casserole:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and bananas, ensuring all the bread is soaked. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results. - Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, mix the brown sugar, melted butter, and chopped nuts (if using). Set aside. - Bake the Casserole:
Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the casserole from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature for 20 minutes. Spread the topping evenly over the casserole. - Cook:
Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set. Check with a toothpick or knife to ensure the custard is fully cooked. - Serve:
Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes before serving. Serve warm with syrup, whipped cream, or powdered sugar.
Notes
- Substitute brioche or challah with any sturdy bread like French bread if needed.
- For an extra caramelized flavor, add a drizzle of caramel sauce on top before serving.
- Make it dairy-free by using almond milk and coconut cream.