Dessert

Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole Recipe

ByAndria Russo January 14, 2026January 14, 2026

Introduction

This Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole is a delightful and easy make-ahead breakfast that’s perfect for busy mornings or special occasions. Soft bread soaked in a creamy egg mixture pairs beautifully with ripe bananas and a buttery streusel topping for a comforting start to your day.

A square piece of baked banana bread pudding rests on a white textured plate on a white marbled surface. The dessert has three visible layers: the bottom layer shows soft, moist bread pieces in light brown with banana slices tucked inside; the middle layer is creamy and pale yellow, blending softly with the bread; the top layer is a thick, crumbly streusel in a darker brown, crispy and rough in texture. Golden syrup is drizzled around the base, catching the light and adding a glossy finish. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb sourdough or French bread, cut into chunks
8 large eggs
2 cups milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 cup light brown sugar
6-7 medium ripe bananas, chopped
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (for streusel)
3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar (for streusel)
1/2 cup salted butter (for streusel)
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions

Step 1: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: In a large bowl, combine the bread chunks with the chopped bananas, gently mixing to distribute evenly.
Step 3: In another bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture over the bread and bananas, stirring gently to ensure all pieces are coated.
Step 5: Transfer this mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Cover and refrigerate overnight to let the flavors meld and the bread soak up the custard.
Step 6: When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-35 minutes until it starts to set.
Step 7: For the streusel topping, combine the flour, brown sugar, and salted butter in a bowl, mixing with your fingers or a pastry cutter until crumbly. Sprinkle this evenly over the casserole and return to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until golden and crisp.
Step 8: Let the casserole cool slightly, then serve warm. Optional toppings like maple syrup, fresh fruit, or whipped cream enhance the flavors beautifully.

Tips & Variations

Use thick cut day-old bread for the best texture—it absorbs the custard without becoming mushy.
Swap bananas for other fruits such as berries or apples to change up the flavor.
For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use a non-dairy butter alternative.
Add chopped nuts like pecans or walnuts to the streusel topping for extra crunch and flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) until heated through. This casserole also freezes well; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A square piece of layered banana breakfast casserole sits on a white plate with a subtle textured edge, placed on a white marbled surface. The bottom layer is light and fluffy, showing bits of soft banana slices peeking through a moist, bread-like base. On top, there is a thick, crumbly layer with a golden-brown cinnamon sugar topping that looks crunchy and slightly sticky, glistening with syrup that has pooled around the base of the casserole. The overall texture appears soft and moist inside, with a crisp, caramelized top. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare this casserole without refrigerating overnight?

While you can bake the casserole immediately, letting it soak overnight allows the bread to absorb the custard fully, resulting in a richer and more tender texture.

What can I use instead of sourdough or French bread?

Any sturdy white or whole wheat bread works well, such as brioche or challah, which add extra richness. Avoid very soft or thin-sliced breads as they may become too soggy.