Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole

Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole

If you’re looking for a decadent breakfast or brunch treat that combines the flavors of caramelized bananas and rich French toast, this Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole is the ultimate dish. It’s perfect for special occasions or lazy weekends when you want to indulge in something sweet and comforting. With a buttery brown sugar banana filling, a custardy French bread base, and a crunchy cinnamon topping, this casserole has it all. Plus, it can be prepped the night before, making breakfast effortless!

Ingredients:

For the Brown Sugar Banana Filling:

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• ¾ cup light brown sugar, packed
• 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
• Pinch of salt
• 3 ripe-firm bananas, peeled and sliced

For the French Toast:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup milk (whole or 2%)
• 1 cup half and half
• 2 tablespoons light brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon pure vanilla extract
• One 15 oz loaf of French bread, cut into large cubes (preferably a day or two old)

For the Topping:

• ⅓ cup light brown sugar, packed
• ⅓ cup all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Pinch of salt
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

To Serve (Optional):

• Maple syrup
• Caramel sauce
• Sliced bananas
• Chopped nuts
• Whipped cream

Directions:

1. Prepare the Brown Sugar Banana Filling:
In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt, stirring constantly until smooth and caramel-like. Remove the skillet from heat and carefully stir in the sliced bananas. Set aside and let the mixture cool to room temperature.

2. Prepare the French Toast:
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, half and half, brown sugar, cinnamon, and vanilla extract until smooth. Grease a 2 ½ or 3-quart casserole dish.

• Place half of the bread cubes into the dish and spoon half of the cooled banana-brown sugar mixture over the bread.
• Add the remaining bread cubes on top.
• Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes, pressing down lightly to help the bread absorb the liquid.
• Spoon the remaining banana-brown sugar mixture over the top of the bread.
• Cover the casserole and refrigerate it overnight to allow the flavors to meld and the bread to soak up the custard.

3. Prepare the Topping:
In a small bowl, combine the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt. Add the softened butter and mix until the mixture resembles wet, clumpy sand. Cover and refrigerate until ready to bake.

4. Bake the Casserole:
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the French toast casserole from the refrigerator and crumble the prepared topping evenly over the surface.

• Bake uncovered for 40-55 minutes, or until the casserole is puffed, golden brown, and set. Check to ensure the center is not too wet before removing from the oven.

5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the French toast casserole warm, topped with maple syrup, caramel sauce, sliced bananas, chopped nuts, and/or whipped cream if desired. This dish is perfect for feeding a crowd, and every bite will have your guests asking for more!

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes (plus overnight soak)
• Cooking Time: 50 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Calories: 450 kcal per serving

This Brown Sugar Banana French Toast Casserole is the ultimate make-ahead breakfast dish. The combination of sweet bananas, caramel-like brown sugar, and a rich custardy base creates a comforting and indulgent breakfast. The best part is that you can assemble it the night before, leaving you more time to enjoy your morning. Serve it with your favorite toppings and enjoy a breakfast that feels like dessert!

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