Description
This Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole is a delicious and easy-to-make breakfast dish that combines the comforting flavors of ripe bananas, soft sourdough bread, and a sweet custard base. Perfect for preparing the night before, it bakes to a golden brown finish topped with a buttery streusel for added texture and sweetness. Ideal for family brunches or special occasions, this casserole is served warm with maple syrup or your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb sourdough or French bread, cut into chunks
- 6–7 medium ripe bananas, chopped
- 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
Streusel Topping
- 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 3/4 cup firmly packed brown sugar
- 1/2 cup salted butter
Instructions
- Prepare the casserole dish: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
- Combine bread and bananas: In a large bowl, mix the chunks of sourdough or French bread with the chopped ripe bananas, ensuring even distribution.
- Make the custard mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until smooth and well combined.
- Mix custard with bread and bananas: Pour the egg and milk mixture over the bread and bananas, stirring gently to coat all pieces evenly without breaking the bread chunks.
- Refrigerate overnight: Transfer the mixture into the prepared casserole dish, cover it tightly, and place it in the refrigerator overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
- Bake the casserole: Preheat the oven to 350°F (176°C). Bake the casserole uncovered for 30-35 minutes until it begins to set and turn golden.
- Add the streusel topping and finish baking: While the casserole is baking, prepare the streusel by combining flour, brown sugar, and salted butter in a bowl, crumbling it together. Sprinkle the streusel evenly over the casserole and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the topping is golden and crisp.
- Serve warm: Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly. Serve warm with maple syrup or your favorite toppings for a delightful breakfast treat.
Notes
- Using sourdough bread adds a tangy flavor and great texture, but you can substitute with any sturdy bread like French or brioche.
- Make sure bananas are ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor infusion.
- The overnight soak helps the bread absorb the custard for a moist, custardy interior.
- For a dairy-free version, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use vegan butter for the streusel.
- You can add nuts or chocolate chips to the streusel for extra crunch and flavor.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Banana French Toast Casserole, overnight French toast, baked French toast, banana breakfast casserole, easy breakfast casserole, streusel topping, make ahead breakfast
