This Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole is a warm and delicious dish that brings together sweet bananas, fluffy bread, and a hint of brown sugar. Perfect for breakfasts or brunches!
Making this casserole is a breeze! Just slice the bread, layer in the bananas, and pour the egg mixture over it. I love having this on weekends when I can enjoy every bite without rushing! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Day-old Bread: Using day-old bread is key as it absorbs the custard better. French bread or brioche works great, but you can use challah or even sourdough if you prefer, just make sure it’s a bit stale.
Bananas: Ripe bananas add natural sweetness. If you don’t have fresh bananas, you could use banana puree or even canned pumpkin for a different flavor twist!
Milk & Cream: I love using whole milk and heavy cream for richness, but you can substitute them with almond milk or oat milk. Just skip the heavy cream for a lighter version if needed.
Sugars: Brown sugar brings depth and a caramel flavor. If you want it less sweet, cut back the granulated sugar or use coconut sugar as a healthier alternative.
How Do I Properly Soak the Bread?
Soaking the bread in the custard mix is essential for a deliciously soft casserole. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure to pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and bananas.
- Use a spatula to press down the bread gently. This helps the custard absorb better.
- Let it soak for at least 30 minutes before baking. If you have time, refrigerate it overnight!
This way, every bite will be creamy and flavorful. Enjoy making this for your next brunch!
Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread (such as French bread or brioche), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6 cups)
- 3 ripe bananas, sliced (plus extra for garnish)
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- Maple syrup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful casserole will take about 15 minutes to prep and then require 45 to 55 minutes to bake. If you let it soak in the fridge overnight, that’s extra helpful, but if not, just allow at least 30 minutes of soaking before baking. Total time: about 1 hour to 1 hour and 10 minutes (plus optional overnight soaking).
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare:
Start by heating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven is warming up, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking.
2. Assemble the Base:
Take the cubes of bread and spread them evenly in your prepared baking dish. Once the bread is arranged, layer on the sliced bananas, distributing them evenly over the bread cubes for a delicious fruity flavor.
3. Whisk Together the Custard:
In a large mixing bowl, crack the eggs and whisk them together. Add in the whole milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Whisk until everything is fully combined and smooth.
4. Combine Bread and Custard:
Carefully pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread and banana layers. Use a spatula to gently press down on the bread, ensuring it soaks up the lovely custard nice and thoroughly.
5. Add Butter:
Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the entire casserole to enhance flavor and create a wonderful golden crust when baked.
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the baking dish in the oven and bake uncovered for 45 to 55 minutes. You’re looking for the top to become golden brown and the custard to be set. It will smell amazing!
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. This resting time will make it easier to serve. You can garnish it with extra banana slices for a lovely touch!
8. Enjoy with Maple Syrup:
Serve your warm Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole with a generous drizzle of maple syrup on top. This is sure to make your breakfast or brunch an unforgettable one!
Enjoy your sweet, comforting Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole!
Can I Use Other Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While day-old French bread or brioche is recommended for its texture, feel free to use challah, sourdough, or even whole grain bread. Just ensure it’s a bit stale to soak up the custard effectively!
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
You can easily make this dish gluten-free by using a gluten-free bread. Many grocery stores carry gluten-free options that work well in casseroles. Just ensure they’re day-old for best results!
Can I Make This Casserole in Advance?
Yes! You can assemble everything the night before and refrigerate it. This allows the bread to soak in the custard overnight, which enhances the flavors. Just pop it in the oven the next morning, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm individual servings in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Enjoy your sweet treat again!
