Banana French Toast Casserole: Overnight, Caramelized & Brunch-Perfect

1. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Add bread cubes to the dish and scatter 2 sliced bananas throughout the bread.
3. If your bread is very fresh/soft, let cubes sit out 30 minutes to dry slightly (helps texture).

2) Optional Caramel Base Layer (Highly Recommended)

1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Stir in brown sugar, maple syrup, and salt. Simmer 1–2 minutes until glossy.
3. Pour caramel into the bottom of the baking dish and spread evenly.
4. Top with bread cubes and bananas (from Step 1).

3) Make the Custard

1. In a large bowl, whisk eggs, milk, cream, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and salt.
2. Pour evenly over the bread.
3. Press bread down gently so it soaks into the custard.

4) Chill (Overnight Option)

1. Cover and refrigerate at least 2 hours, or overnight for best soak.

5) Make the Streusel

1. Mix flour, brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cut in cold butter with fingers or a fork until crumbly.
3. Stir in nuts if using.
4. Keep chilled until ready to bake.

6) Bake

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Uncover casserole and sprinkle streusel evenly over the top.
3. Arrange the last banana (sliced) on top for a beautiful finish.
4. Bake 40–50 minutes, until golden and set in the center.
5. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing (it sets as it cools).

Serving and Storage

Serving

• Dust with powdered sugar and drizzle with warm maple syrup.
• Add fresh banana slices right before serving (prevents browning).
• Optional: whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert-style vibes.

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store covered up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Oven at 325°F (165°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave individual portions.
• Freezer: Freeze portions up to 2 months; thaw overnight in fridge and reheat.

Tips

• Best bread: Brioche or challah makes the richest, most custardy texture.
• Banana ripeness: Use ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum flavor.
• Don’t rush: A longer soak (overnight) gives the most tender center.
• Check doneness: The center should be set, not liquid. A knife should come out mostly clean.

Variations

• Chocolate banana: Add 1 cup chocolate chips before baking.
• Peanut butter swirl: Dollop peanut butter on top and swirl gently before adding streusel.
• Banana Foster style: Add a splash of rum extract and extra caramel sauce.
• Berry banana: Add fresh blueberries for a fruity twist.
• Gluten-free: Use gluten-free bread and ensure flour in streusel is GF.

More Pro Tips

• Extra crispy top: Broil 30–60 seconds at the end (watch closely).
• Make-ahead win: Assemble the casserole at night, make streusel ahead, and sprinkle just before baking.
• Prevent soggy edges: Let casserole rest 10 minutes before cutting.
• Flavor boost: Rub banana slices lightly with lemon juice if adding fresh slices on top (prevents browning).

Conclusion

This Banana French Toast Casserole is the ultimate cozy brunch bake—custardy bread, caramelized banana goodness,
and a buttery streusel topping that makes every bite feel special. Whether you prep it overnight for a stress-free morning
or bake it fresh for weekend comfort, it’s the kind of recipe that turns an ordinary day into a celebration.

FAQ

Can I make this the night before?

Yes—overnight is ideal. It gives the bread time to soak up the custard for the best texture.

Do bananas turn brown in the casserole?

Bananas inside bake into the custard and taste amazing. For pretty presentation, add fresh banana slices right before serving.

Can I skip the caramel layer?

Yes, but it adds a bakery-style richness. If skipping, consider adding an extra drizzle of maple syrup when serving.

What if my casserole is browning too fast?

Tent loosely with foil during the last 10–15 minutes of baking.

How do I know it’s done?

The center should be set and no longer liquid. A knife inserted should come out mostly clean with a few moist crumbs.