This Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole is a warm, sweet breakfast treat that’s super easy to make. With layers of fluffy bread, ripe bananas, and a brown sugar topping, it’s delightful!
Honestly, who wouldn’t want to wake up to this tasty dish? I love making it the night before; then, all I have to do is pop it in the oven in the morning—so simple!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick-cut bread like French or brioche works best for this casserole, providing a soft texture. If you’re looking for a lighter option, whole wheat or gluten-free bread can work too.
Bananas: Ripe bananas are crucial for sweetness. If you don’t have bananas, apples or berries can be a fun alternative, though the flavor will change.
Eggs: These create the custard base for the casserole. For a vegan version, you could use flax eggs or a plant-based egg replacer. Just be sure to adjust the liquid level accordingly.
Brown Sugar: Besides adding a caramel flavor, brown sugar helps with moisture. If you prefer less sweetness, try using coconut sugar or reducing the quantity.
Nuts: Pecans or walnuts add nice crunch, but feel free to exclude them if nut allergies are a concern. You can also replace them with seeds like pumpkin or sunflower seeds.
How Do I Ensure a Perfect Custard Consistency?
Getting the right custard consistency is key to a great casserole. Make sure to give the bread enough time to soak up the egg mixture. Here’s how:
- Mix the egg, milk, and sugar until well combined for a smooth custard.
- Press the bread down gently after pouring the mixture over it to help it absorb.
- Let the casserole sit for 10-15 minutes before baking; this softens the bread for that gooey texture.
Proper soaking is vital so that every bite melts in your mouth!
Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 loaf of thick-cut bread (such as French bread or brioche), cubed (about 8 cups)
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- Maple syrup, for serving
- Whipped cream or dollop of cream cheese, for garnish (optional)
Time Needed:
This Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 50 minutes to bake. Allow for some additional time for it to rest and absorb the custard, so overall, plan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Baking Dish:
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Next, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray. This helps prevent the casserole from sticking!
2. Layer the Bread and Bananas:
Spread half of the cubed bread evenly in the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Then, layer the sliced bananas evenly over the bread. Top this with the remaining bread cubes, pressing down gently to create an even layer.
3. Mix the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, brown sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and salt until everything is well combined. This is your custard base that will bring everything together.
4. Combine and Soak:
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and bananas in the casserole dish. Lightly press the bread down with a spatula to ensure it soaks up the custard. If you’re using nuts, sprinkle them evenly on top now.
5. Add Butter and Rest:
Drizzle the melted butter over the entire casserole for a delicious golden topping. Let the casserole sit for about 10-15 minutes to absorb the custard mixture.
6. Bake the Casserole:
Place the casserole in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the top is golden brown and the center is set. It might puff up a bit while baking but will settle as it cools!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly for about 5-10 minutes. Serve warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, and top with whipped cream or a dollop of cream cheese for an extra touch!
This comforting casserole combines the caramel notes of brown sugar with the sweet creaminess of bananas, all wrapped in soft, custardy bread. Perfect for brunch or a special breakfast!
Can I Make This Casserole Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can assemble the casserole the night before and keep it covered in the refrigerator. Just add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it straight from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
What Can I Substitute for the Nuts?
If you prefer not to use nuts, feel free to skip them altogether or replace them with seeds, such as pumpkin or sunflower seeds, for a little crunch. This also makes it nut-free for those with allergies!
Can I Use Other Fruits Instead of Bananas?
Yes! While bananas are delicious, you can experiment with other fruits like berries, apples, or sliced peaches. Just be mindful that different fruits may alter the overall sweetness and texture of the casserole.
