Description
This Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole is a delightful twist on classic French toast, combining the richness of eggs and creamy milk with the natural sweetness of ripe bananas. Prepared the night before and baked in the morning, it results in a warm, custardy breakfast treat crowned with a buttery streusel topping that adds a satisfying crunch. Perfect for busy mornings or brunch gatherings, this recipe offers a comforting, indulgent start to your day.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb sourdough or French bread, cut into chunks
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup light brown sugar
- 6–7 medium ripe bananas, chopped
Streusel Topping
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup salted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking and make for easy cleanup.
- Combine Bread and Bananas: In a large bowl, toss together the chunks of sourdough or French bread with the chopped ripe bananas, ensuring even distribution of fruit throughout the bread.
- Mix Wet Ingredients: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy whipping cream, sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
- Coat Bread Mixture: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and bananas, gently stirring to ensure all pieces are well coated with the custard mixture.
- Refrigerate Overnight: Transfer the coated bread and banana mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the bread absorb the custard.
- Preheat Oven and Bake: The next morning, preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C). Bake the casserole for 30-35 minutes to begin cooking and set the custard.
- Prepare and Add Streusel Topping: While the casserole bakes, combine flour, brown sugar, and salted butter in a bowl, mixing until crumbly. After the initial bake, sprinkle the streusel evenly over the casserole and return it to the oven for the last 5-10 minutes of baking until the topping is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve Warm: Remove from the oven and allow to cool slightly before serving. Best enjoyed warm with maple syrup or your favorite breakfast toppings.
Notes
- Use day-old or slightly stale bread for better absorption of the custard mixture.
- You can substitute the milk and cream with dairy-free alternatives for a lactose-free version.
- Add a teaspoon of vanilla extract and a half teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the egg mixture for enhanced flavor.
- For added texture and flavor, consider mixing chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans into the streusel topping.
- If you prefer a less sweet casserole, reduce the sugars slightly according to taste.
- This casserole freezes well; prepare as directed and freeze before baking. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: banana French toast casserole, overnight French toast, baked French toast, breakfast casserole, streusel topping, banana breakfast recipe
