This Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole is a sweet breakfast treat! Soft bread mixed with bananas and a buttery brown sugar topping makes it warm and comforting.
It’s super easy to prepare the night before, so you can wake up and just bake it. I love serving it with syrup—who can resist that golden drizzle? 🍌✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Challah or brioche works best for a rich flavor and texture. If you’re looking for a lower-cost option, regular bread like French or whole grain can also work.
Bananas: Ripe bananas bring fantastic sweetness. If you’re short on bananas, you could swap in apples or even berries for a different twist.
Milk and Cream: Whole milk makes this casserole creamy, but you can use 2% milk or even a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk as a substitute. Just know the texture might differ slightly.
Brown Sugar: Light brown sugar gives a subtle molasses flavor. If you only have granulated sugar, use that—but consider adding a teaspoon of molasses to mimic the flavor.
How Do I Ensure the Custard is Perfectly Soaked?
The key here is to let the bread soak up the custard. After pouring the mixture over the bread, press down gently to help it absorb. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This allows the flavors to blend and the bread to get soft and custardy.
- Use a deep dish to ensure even soaking.
- Press the bread gently with a spatula after pouring the egg mixture.
- Let it sit in the fridge to soak overnight for best results.
What’s the Best Way to Achieve a Golden Brown Topping?
Baking uncovered allows the top to get that beautiful golden color. Make sure the casserole is evenly covered with the nut and butter mixture for a deliciously crunchy topping. If you notice it browning too quickly, cover with foil until it’s cooked through.
- Preheat your oven to ensure even cooking.
- Check the casserole around the 40-minute mark to prevent over-baking.
Enjoy your breakfast feast! 🍽️
Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf challah or brioche bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (about 8 cups)
- 3 large ripe bananas, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup packed light brown sugar
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp salt
For the Topping:
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (toasted)
For Serving:
- Maple syrup, for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious casserole takes about 20 minutes to prep and 50–60 minutes to bake. It’s best if you let it chill overnight after you assemble it, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. So, plan for some resting time, but you can do most of the work ahead of time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Bread and Bananas:
Start by greasing a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick spray or butter. Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the dish. Then, layer half the sliced bananas on top. Once that’s done, add the rest of the bread cubes in a single layer over the bananas, followed by the remaining banana slices.
2. Make the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, crack all 8 eggs. Add the whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Using a whisk, mix it all together until it’s well-blended and looks smooth and creamy. This is your custard base!
3. Pour Custard and Soak:
Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and bananas in the baking dish. Take a spatula and gently press down on the bread to help it soak up all that delicious custard. Cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours—overnight is even better!
4. Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Topping:
When you’re ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s happening, take a small bowl and mix melted butter with the chopped pecans or walnuts to create a tasty topping.
5. Add Topping and Bake:
Remove the casserole from the refrigerator. Sprinkle the nut and butter mixture evenly over the top of the soaked bread. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 50–60 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the custard is set, and the top has a lovely golden brown color.
6. Serve:
Once baked, let the casserole cool for about 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm with fresh banana slices on top and a generous drizzle of maple syrup for the ultimate breakfast delight!
Enjoy this gooey, sweet, and nutty French toast casserole, perfect for a special breakfast or brunch! 🍽️
Can I Use Whole Wheat Bread Instead of Challah or Brioche?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread can be used for a healthier option, but keep in mind that it may alter the flavor and texture slightly. The casserole will still be delicious!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
Can I Freeze the Casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Wrap it tightly with plastic wrap and then foil. When ready to bake, thaw it in the fridge overnight, then bake as instructed!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make this casserole gluten-free, use a gluten-free bread alternative. Most gluten-free bread can work well in this recipe, just ensure it’s sturdy enough to hold up under the custard.
