Baked Banana French Toast Casserole

One of my fondest memories growing up is waking up to the smell of breakfast wafting through the house on lazy Sunday mornings. My mom would whip up something special, and one of my favorites was her Baked Banana French Toast Casserole. There’s just something magical about the combination of warm bananas and cinnamon, all wrapped up in that comforting bread goodness. It was a dish that always brought our family together, and it still does.

This Baked Banana French Toast Casserole is perfect for any occasion, and especially for cozy weekends when you want to treat your loved ones to something delicious without spending all your time in the kitchen. It’s an easy dish that lets you enjoy the morning with your family instead of slaving away at the stove. So, let’s dive in and get to cooking this delightful breakfast that’s sure to become a favorite in your home too!

Why You’ll Love Baked Banana French Toast Casserole

• Quick prep time: Ready in just 20 minutes before baking!
• Feeds a crowd: Perfect for family gatherings or brunch with friends.
• Minimal ingredients: Simple pantry staples create a delicious dish.
• Make-ahead option: Prep the night before and bake in the morning.
• Versatile flavors: Add your favorite fruits or nuts for a personal touch.
• Freezer friendly: Leftovers can be frozen for a quick breakfast later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb loaf Sourdough or French Bread, cut into chunks (day-old bread works best for soaking up the custard)
• 8 large eggs (preferably free-range for richer flavor)
• 2 cups (480ml) milk (whole or 2% for creaminess)
• ½ cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream (adds a luxurious texture)
• ½ cup (104g) granulated sugar (for sweetness)
• ¼ cup (36g) light brown sugar, unpacked (adds depth with its molasses flavor)
• 2 teaspoon vanilla extract (for that warm, comforting aroma)
• 1 ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon (can use fresh ground for a stronger flavor)
• 6-7 medium sized bananas, chopped (ripe bananas are sweeter and mashier)
• ¾ cup (98g) all-purpose flour (for the streusel topping)
• ¾ cup (169g) firmly packed brown sugar (for a sugary crunch in the topping)
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon (to complement the streusel)
• ½ cup (112g) salted butter, cut into pieces (for a rich, buttery topping)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preheat the Oven

First things first, let’s get that oven fired up! Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is super important because a hot oven helps our casserole bake evenly and turn golden brown. While it’s warming up, you can gather the rest of your ingredients and prep the dish.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, crack those 8 large eggs and whisk them together until they’re nicely blended. Then, pour in 2 cups of milk and ½ cup of heavy whipping cream. Whisk again until it’s all combined. Now, add in both the granulated sugar and light brown sugar, 2 teaspoons of vanilla extract, and 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cinnamon. Keep whisking until everything is smooth and the sugars are dissolved. This mixture is going to soak into the bread, creating that heavenly custard base we all love!

Combine Bread and Bananas

Now, it’s time to add the star ingredients — the bread and bananas! Grab your loaf of sourdough or French bread, cut into chunky pieces, and gently stir it into the egg mixture. Make sure every piece gets coated and soaked up that delicious custard. Then, fold in those 6-7 chopped bananas. Don’t worry if it seems a little messy; that just means it’s going to be scrumptious! Once everything is combined, pour the mixture into a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly to ensure every bite gets that banana goodness.

Prepare the Streusel Topping

In a separate bowl, let’s whip up the streusel topping! Combine ¾ cup of all-purpose flour, ¾ cup of firmly packed brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of cinnamon. Mix these dry ingredients well. Now, add in the ½ cup of salted butter, cut into small pieces. Use your fingers or a pastry cutter to mix it all together until it resembles coarse crumbs. This topping is what will give our casserole that delightful crunchy texture on top, so don’t skimp on the mixing!

Bake the Casserole

Once your casserole mixture is ready and the streusel topping is crumbly, it’s time to bake! Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the top of the casserole. Pop it into your preheated oven and let it bake for about 45-50 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it’s set and golden brown on top. When you take it out, let it cool for a few minutes before diving in. Trust me, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will have everyone gathering around, eager for their first bite!

Variations

• Swap bananas for seasonal fruits like apples, berries, or peaches for a different flavor profile.
• Add a handful of chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for a delightful crunch.
• Try using croissants instead of sourdough for a rich, buttery twist.
• For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and cream with almond or coconut milk.
• Make it lighter by using egg whites instead of whole eggs and reducing the sugar.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving

Serve your Baked Banana French Toast Casserole warm, drizzled with maple syrup for that extra touch of sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a dollop of whipped cream. Everyone will be reaching for seconds, so be ready!

Storage

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze portions for a quick breakfast later — just wrap them tightly and they’ll keep for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Helpful Notes

• For a nut-free version, simply omit any nuts in the variations and check your bread for allergens.
• Feel free to use whole grain bread for added fiber and nutrients.
• If you want to cut back on sugar, you can reduce both granulated and brown sugar by half without sacrificing flavor.
• For added flavor, try incorporating a splash of rum or bourbon into the egg mixture.
• Chia seeds or flaxseed meal can be added for a nutritious boost if you want to sneak in some extra health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I freeze Baked Banana French Toast Casserole?

Absolutely! You can freeze portions of the casserole for up to 2 months. Just make sure to wrap it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to keep it fresh. When you're ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

How do I substitute ingredients for dietary restrictions?

For dietary restrictions, you can easily substitute the milk and cream with almond, soy, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version. Using gluten-free bread will make it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just keep an eye on sugar levels if you're watching your intake!

Can this dish be prepared the night before?

Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before! Just assemble it, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. In the morning, pop it in the oven straight from the fridge, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed. It’s a great way to make your mornings stress-free!

Final Thoughts

I really hope you give this Baked Banana French Toast Casserole a try! It’s such a wonderful way to start the day, filled with flavors that will make your kitchen smell heavenly and your heart feel cozy. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular weekend morning, this dish is sure to bring smiles to your table. Remember, cooking is all about enjoying the process and sharing good times with loved ones. So gather your family, pour some coffee, and dig into this delightful breakfast casserole. You’ve got this, and I can’t wait for you to taste it!

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