Description
This Caramelized Banana French Toast is a decadent breakfast treat featuring thick slices of brioche or challah bread soaked in a rich custard and topped with sweet, buttery caramelized bananas. Perfectly golden and tender, it’s an easy and impressive brunch recipe that offers a delightful balance of sweetness and warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
Bread and Custard
- 4 thick slices of brioche or challah bread
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- Pinch of salt
Banana Topping
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter (plus more for cooking)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Serving Options
- Maple syrup (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the custard mixture: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt until well combined and smooth.
- Soak the bread slices: Dip each thick slice of brioche or challah bread into the custard mixture, allowing both sides to soak thoroughly to absorb the flavors without becoming overly soggy.
- Cook the French toast: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt a small amount of butter. Place the soaked bread slices onto the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. Remove from the pan and keep warm while preparing the topping.
- Caramelize the bananas: In the same skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the sliced bananas and brown sugar, stirring occasionally. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the bananas become golden and caramelized, forming a luscious topping.
- Assemble and serve: Spoon the warm caramelized bananas generously over the cooked French toast. Serve immediately, drizzling with maple syrup and dusting with powdered sugar as desired for extra sweetness and presentation.
Notes
- Use day-old bread for best results, as it absorbs the custard better without becoming soggy.
- Add a splash of dark rum to the banana mixture for a sophisticated adult version.
- To make this recipe dairy-free, substitute whole milk and heavy cream with plant-based alternatives, and use vegan butter or oil instead of dairy butter.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 slices with bananas
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 20g
- Sodium: 290mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 155mg
