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If you love banana bread and adore French toast, then this recipe is going to be your new breakfast obsession! Banana Bread French Toast takes the rich, moist goodness of banana bread and transforms it into a buttery, golden-brown masterpiece. Every bite is packed with warm cinnamon, caramelized edges, and that irresistible banana flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a weekend brunch showstopper or a creative way to use up leftover banana bread, this recipe is perfect. And if you enjoy trying new and delicious meal ideas, don’t forget to check out this Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap for a quick and satisfying lunch option!
Now, let’s dive into the magic of this comforting and indulgent dish!
Why You’ll Love This Banana Bread French Toast
There are a million reasons to love this recipe, but here are just a few:
- Rich and indulgent: The dense, moist texture of banana bread soaks up the custard beautifully, making for an extra luxurious French toast.
- Easy to make: If you already have banana bread on hand, this recipe comes together in minutes!
- Perfect for brunch: Impress your family and guests with a café-worthy dish that tastes like a dessert for breakfast.
- Great for leftovers: Stale banana bread works best, so this is a fantastic way to use up any slices that are a bit past their prime.
- Customizable: Top it with syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or even a dusting of powdered sugar!
What Does Banana Bread French Toast Taste Like?
Imagine the best banana bread you’ve ever had—soft, flavorful, and slightly caramelized. Now picture it with crispy, buttery edges, a custardy center, and a hint of warm spices. That’s exactly what this tastes like! The banana flavor shines through while the eggs, cinnamon, and vanilla add that classic French toast warmth. Every bite is a mix of rich, sweet, and slightly crispy perfection.
And if you’re looking for a healthier but equally satisfying breakfast option, try this Healthy Taco Bowl Recipe—packed with fresh ingredients and bold flavors!
Ingredients for Banana Bread French Toast
To make this deliciously indulgent breakfast, you’ll need:
For the French Toast:
- 4 slices of banana bread (preferably day-old or slightly stale)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup whole milk (or half-and-half for extra richness)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon granulated sugar (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (for cooking)
For Toppings (Optional but Highly Recommended!):
- Maple syrup
- Sliced bananas
- Whipped cream
- Chopped nuts (walnuts or pecans work great)
- Powdered sugar
- Caramel or chocolate drizzle
Kitchen Tools You’ll Need
- A mixing bowl
- A whisk or fork
- A shallow dish (for dipping the bread)
- A nonstick skillet or griddle
- A spatula
Ingredient Swaps & Additions
This recipe is super versatile, and you can easily swap out or add ingredients based on your preferences:
- Milk Alternatives: Swap whole milk for almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Extra Flavor: Add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of rum extract to enhance the flavors.
- Chocolate Twist: Stir a handful of mini chocolate chips into the banana bread batter before baking for a sweeter variation.
- Protein Boost: Mix a scoop of vanilla protein powder into the egg mixture for a more filling breakfast.
If you love experimenting with delicious sandwich recipes, you might also enjoy this Turkey and Avocado Sandwich—a light yet flavorful option perfect for lunch!
How to Make Banana Bread French Toast
Step 1: Prepare the Custard Mixture
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, sugar, and salt until well combined. This will be your rich, flavorful soaking mixture.
Step 2: Dip the Banana Bread
Take each slice of banana bread and gently dip it into the custard mixture. Let it soak for about 5-10 seconds per side—banana bread is more delicate than traditional bread, so you don’t want it to fall apart.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Place a nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat and melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Swirl it around to coat the pan evenly.
Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown
Carefully place the soaked banana bread slices in the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and slightly crispy. Add the remaining butter as needed for the next batch.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
Transfer the French toast to a plate and top with your favorite toppings—maple syrup, sliced bananas, and a dusting of powdered sugar are classic choices!
What to Serve with Banana Bread French Toast
This dish is already packed with flavor, but here are some perfect pairings:
- Bacon or Sausage: A salty, savory contrast to the sweet French toast.
- Greek Yogurt: Adds a refreshing tang and a boost of protein.
- Fresh Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries balance the richness.
- Coffee or Chai Latte: The warm spices in chai or the bitterness of coffee complement the sweetness beautifully.
Tips for the Best Banana Bread French Toast
- Use day-old banana bread. Fresh banana bread can be too soft and may fall apart when dipped. Stale bread holds up better!
- Don’t soak for too long. Banana bread is more delicate than regular bread, so just a few seconds in the custard mixture is enough.
- Cook on medium heat. Too high, and the bread will burn before the inside is warm. Too low, and it won’t get that golden crust.
- Add butter in batches. This ensures each slice gets a beautiful, buttery crisp exterior.
How to Store & Reheat Banana Bread French Toast
Refrigerating:
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing:
Place cooled French toast slices in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze for 1-2 hours. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag and store for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: 20-30 seconds for a quick fix.
- Oven: 300°F (150°C) for 8-10 minutes to restore crispiness.
- Toaster: A great option for bringing back that golden crust!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this with store-bought banana bread?
Yes! If you don’t have homemade banana bread, store-bought works just fine.
What if my banana bread is too soft?
Toast it lightly before dipping to help it hold up better in the custard mixture.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare and freeze the French toast slices in advance, then reheat when ready to serve.
Can I use gluten-free banana bread?
Absolutely! Just make sure your banana bread is firm enough to hold up to the egg mixture.
Final Thoughts: You Need to Try This!
Banana Bread French Toast is an absolute game-changer—warm, cozy, and full of incredible flavors. Whether you’re making it for a special brunch or just treating yourself to a better-than-ever breakfast, this recipe is a must-try.
Now, I’d love to hear from you! Have you tried this recipe? Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to share your delicious creations on Pinterest!
Looking for More Recipe Inspiration?
Try these next:
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap – A quick and delicious meal!
- Healthy Taco Bowl Recipe – A nutritious and flavorful dish.
- Turkey and Avocado Sandwich – A perfect lunch option.
Happy cooking!