Banana Nut French Toast Casserole

Prep Time 15 mins
Cook Time 40 mins
Rest Time 30 mins
Total Time 1 hr 25 mins
Cooking Method:
Cuisine:
Courses: ,
Difficulty: Beginner
Cooking Temp: 175  C
Servings: 6
Best Season: All Seasons
Description

This Banana Nut French Toast Casserole is a rich and comforting breakfast dish featuring caramelized bananas, crunchy nuts, and a warm custard-soaked bread base. It’s easy to prepare the night before, making it perfect for brunch, holiday mornings, or a special weekend treat. With a crispy golden topping and a soft, custardy center, this casserole is a delightful way to start the day.

Ingredients
    For the Base:
  • 1 loaf 1 brioche or challah bread, cut into 1-inch cubes (stale or day-old preferred)
  • 3 ripe bananas, sliced
  • 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
    • For the Custard Mixture:
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1 1/2 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/3 cup brown sugar, packed
  • 1/4 cup maple syrup
  • 1 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 tsp cinnamon
  • 1/4 tsp nutmeg
  • 1/4 tsp salt
    • For the Topping:
  • 2 tbsp butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 1/2 tsp cinnamon
Instructions
    Prepare the Baking Dish
  1. 1
    Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter or nonstick spray. Evenly layer the bread cubes in the dish, followed by banana slices and chopped nuts.
    2. Make the Custard Mixture
  2. 2
    In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
    3. Assemble the Casserole
  3. 3
    Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down lightly to ensure all pieces absorb the liquid. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or cover and refrigerate overnight for deeper flavor.
    4. Make the Topping
  4. 4
    In a small bowl, mix melted butter, brown sugar, chopped nuts, and cinnamon. Sprinkle evenly over the casserole for a caramelized, crunchy topping.
    5. Bake the Casserole
  5. 5
    Preheat the oven to 175°C (350°F). Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake uncovered for another 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
    6. Serve & Enjoy
  6. 6
    Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Drizzle with extra maple syrup, dust with powdered sugar, or add a dollop of whipped cream if desired.
Note
  • Make-Ahead Option: This casserole is perfect for overnight preparation. Simply cover and refrigerate overnight, then bake in the morning.
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
  • Variations: Swap walnuts or pecans for almonds, add chocolate chips, or use almond milk for a dairy-free version.
  • Serving Suggestions: Serve with fresh fruit, whipped cream, or Greek yogurt for added flavor and texture.
Keywords: easy breakfast recipe, make-ahead brunch, baked French toast, banana nut casserole, holiday breakfast
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/banana-nut-french-toast-casserole/