Banana French Toast is one breakfast that seems like a warm hug on a plate. The name itself brings me the happiest. Especially when topped with soft, caramelized bananas and just the right amount of sweetness, golden, crispy edges of bread soaked in custardy richness provide something irrefutably consoling. This is the kind of breakfast your soul, not only your tummy, gets filled.
I first began preparing this dish on leisurely Sunday mornings when I wanted something unique but didn’t want to spend entire hours in the kitchen. One morning I recall letting the magic work by slicing them up, throwing them into a pan with some butter and maple syrup rather than tossing them into yet another smoothie. Together with some thick-cut bread I had leftover from the day before, it was the greatest impromptu morning choice I have ever made.
After a few times cooking this cuisine, it has become somewhat of a ritual for me. I do it when friends staying over want to feel at home. I make it when I want a mood lift (because, honestly, who isn’t immediately happy by sweet bananas frying in brown sugar?). And occasionally I do just because it’s Tuesday and I want to indulge.
This banana French toast has you whether you want a simple brunch centerpiece, a means to use those bananas on your counter, or just something to raise your breakfast level. It’s simple, luxurious, and somewhat nostalgic—and once you taste it, I assure you ordinary toast will not suffice anymore haha.
Discover how to create the finest Banana French Toast with easy guidelines and a caramelized banana topping that feels like a warm embrace on a plate. Ideal for warm mornings or weekend brunch!
Ingredients (Serves 2-3)
For the French Toast:
- 4 slices of brioche or challah bread
- 2 eggs
- ½ cup milk (whole or plant-based)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1 tbsp sugar
- Butter for frying
For the Caramelized Bananas:
- 1 large banana, sliced
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- ½ tsp cinnamon
Toppings (Optional but Recommended!):
- Powdered sugar
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
Instructions
1: Prepare the Batter
- In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar. (Making sure the bowl is shallow, so the bread is coated properly)
2: Soak the Bread
- Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat and melt a little butter.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well coated but not soggy.
3: Cook the French Toast
- Place the soaked bread slices in the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
- Remove from heat and keep warm.
4: Caramelize the Bananas
- In the same pan, melt butter over medium heat.
- Add the banana slices, brown sugar, and cinnamon.
- Cook for about 2 minutes per side until the bananas are caramelized and slightly soft.
5: Assemble & Serve
- Place the French toast on a plate, top with caramelized bananas, and dust with powdered sugar.
- Drizzle with maple syrup or add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
There you have the key to create the best Banana French Toast right in your own kitchen.
A few suggestions I’ve tried a couple times to either change the flavor or the texture include using day-old brioche and letting those bananas caramelize low and slow—can totally change a very simple dish into something exceptional! And hey, if you’re feeling daring, that splash of rum or bourbon in the caramelized bananas? Game changer. Don’t claim I warning you.
Aside from the amazing taste, what I love most about this banana French toast is the sensation it gives me every time I prepare it. It’s nostalgic, relaxing, and simply indulgent enough to make any morning seem like a special event. Whether you’re rewarding yourself after a long week, preparing a nice brunch for loved ones, or trying to dazzle visitors with a meal that seems expensive but is really quite simple—this one meets all the criteria.
I really hope this banana French toast turns out to be one of those dishes you reach for again and again—not only tasty but also entwined with memories of leisurely mornings, second cups of coffee, and a bit more joy on your plate.