Description
This Bananas Foster French Toast is a decadent breakfast casserole featuring rich custard-soaked egg bread topped with a luscious bananas foster mixture, baked to golden perfection. The dish combines the flavors of caramelized bananas, warm spices, and creamy custard soaked overnight for a deliciously indulgent meal perfect for brunch or special occasions.
Ingredients
Bananas Foster Mixture
- 1/2 cup butter, cubed
- 2/3 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
- 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
- 3 large bananas, sliced
French Toast Custard
- 12 slices egg bread or challah (about 3/4 pound)
- 1 1/2 cups 2% milk
- 3 large eggs
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Make the bananas Foster mixture: Place the cubed butter in a medium to large microwave-safe bowl and microwave it covered for 30 to 45 seconds until melted. Whisk in the brown sugar, heavy cream, cinnamon, allspice, and chopped pecans. Add the sliced bananas and toss them carefully to coat evenly with the mixture. Alternatively, you can melt the butter gently on the stove before adding the other ingredients.
- Prepare the baking dish: Grease a 13x9-inch baking dish thoroughly to prevent sticking. Pour the bananas Foster mixture into the greased dish to create the flavorful base layer.
- Add the bread: Place the slices of egg bread or challah over the banana mixture in the dish. Trim edges as needed so the bread fits well and covers the banana layer.
- Blend the custard: In a blender, combine the 2% milk, eggs, sugar, and vanilla extract. Blend just until all ingredients are combined into a smooth custard mixture.
- Soak the bread overnight: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread in the baking dish. Cover the dish and refrigerate it for at least eight hours or overnight. This long soak allows the custard to penetrate every nook and cranny of the bread for a rich, custardy texture.
- Bake the casserole: When ready to bake, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and allow it to reach room temperature while preheating the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the French toast uncovered for 35 to 40 minutes, or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean and the top is golden.
- Rest and serve: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it stand for 5 to 10 minutes to set slightly. Then, carefully invert the casserole onto a serving dish so the bananas Foster topping is on top. Serve warm and enjoy this indulgent breakfast treat.
Notes
- For best results, soak the bread overnight to ensure the custard thoroughly permeates the bread.
- Chopping pecans is optional but adds a nice crunch to the dish.
- Let the casserole come to room temperature before baking to avoid cracking your dish from thermal shock.
- Use egg bread or challah for the most tender, rich texture, but brioche is an excellent substitute.
- This recipe serves 6 and can be doubled for larger gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
