Overnight Banana French Toast Casserole

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This Overnight Banana French Toast Casserole is the perfect make-ahead breakfast for busy mornings, special occasions, or brunch gatherings. Soft cubes of French bread soak overnight in a rich custard made with ripe bananas, cinnamon, and vanilla, then baked to golden perfection. Topped with nuts and served with maple syrup, every bite is warm, creamy, and full of cozy flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

• Easy Make-Ahead Meal: Prep at night, bake in the morning.

• Incredible Flavor: Warm cinnamon, sweet banana, and a hint of vanilla.

• Perfect Texture: Crispy top with soft, custardy inside.

• Great for Feeding a Crowd: Ideal for gatherings and holidays.

Ingredients Breakdown

Bread Base:

• French bread (1 loaf): Provides a sturdy, absorbent base that holds up well to the custard without becoming mushy.

• Ripe bananas (4): Naturally sweetens and adds moist texture and banana flavor throughout.

Custard Mixture:

• Eggs (8): Binds the casserole and gives it a rich, creamy texture.

• Whole milk (2 cups) & heavy cream (½ cup): Creates a smooth and velvety custard.

• Granulated sugar (½ cup) & brown sugar (½ cup): Balances sweetness with depth of flavor from the molasses in the brown sugar.

• Vanilla extract (1 tbsp): Adds a warm, aromatic undertone.

• Cinnamon (1 tsp) & nutmeg (½ tsp): Brings cozy, spiced flavor.

• Salt (pinch): Enhances all the other flavors.

Optional Topping:

• Chopped pecans or walnuts (½ cup): Adds crunch and a nutty contrast to the soft custard layers.

For Serving:

• Maple syrup & powdered sugar: Adds sweetness and a classic French toast finishing touch.

Tips and Tricks:

• Use Day-Old Bread: Slightly dry bread holds up better and absorbs more custard.

• Slice Bananas Thick: Thicker slices prevent the bananas from dissolving completely.

• Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Letting it sit after baking helps it set for cleaner slices.

• Add a Streusel Topping: Mix brown sugar, flour, butter, and cinnamon for an extra crunchy top.

Variations and Customizations:

• Chocolate Banana Twist: Add chocolate chips between the layers.

• Tropical Style: Mix in pineapple chunks and sprinkle with shredded coconut.

• Dairy-Free: Use almond milk and coconut cream for a dairy-free version.

• Low Sugar: Reduce sugars or use a sugar substitute to suit your dietary needs.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Serve With:

  • Fresh fruit salad

  • Greek yogurt parfaits

• Best Drinks:

  • Vanilla latte

  • Spiced chai

  • Orange juice mimosa

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze slices wrapped tightly in foil and stored in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months.

• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Popular Questions:

Can I make this without bananas?

Yes! Substitute with apples, berries, or omit for a classic French toast casserole.

Do I have to use French bread?

No—brioche, challah, or sourdough work wonderfully.

How do I know when it’s done baking?

The top should be golden, and the center should not jiggle when shaken. A toothpick inserted should come out clean.

Overnight Banana French Toast Casserole

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• Author: easysweetmeal
• Total Time: 9 hours 10 minutes
• Yield: 8–10 servings

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Description

Custardy, cinnamon-spiced bread baked with ripe bananas & topped with crunchy nuts—a make-ahead breakfast that tastes like dessert!

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Ingredients

• 1 loaf French bread, cubed

• 4 ripe bananas, sliced

• 8 large eggs

• 2 cups whole milk

• ½ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup granulated sugar

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 tbsp vanilla extract

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• ½ tsp ground nutmeg

• Pinch of salt

• ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts

• Maple syrup and powdered sugar

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Instructions

Step 1: Assemble the Base

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or non-stick spray.

2. Spread cubed French bread evenly in the dish.

3. Distribute banana slices evenly over the bread.

Step 2: Make the Custard

1. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.

2. Pour the custard evenly over the bread and bananas.

3. Press down lightly with a spatula to help the bread absorb the liquid.

4. Sprinkle chopped nuts on top, if using.

Step 3: Refrigerate Overnight

• Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or foil.

• Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Bake to Perfection

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Remove the casserole from the fridge and let sit at room temperature for 20 minutes.

3. Uncover and bake for 45–55 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the center is set.

4. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

• Let the casserole sit for 10 minutes after baking to firm up before slicing.

• Garnish with extra banana slices, powdered sugar, or a drizzle of maple syrup for an irresistible finish.

• Make it festive by adding a pinch of clove or allspice during the holidays!

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Dessert
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

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