Elevate your breakfast game with this Caramelized Banana French Toast. Perfect for a cozy New Year’s morning, this dish is as comforting as it is delicious.
Ingredients
For the French Toast:
- 8 thick slices brioche or challah bread
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 2 tablespoons butter for cooking
For the Caramelized Bananas:
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Whipped cream
- Chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
- Powdered sugar for dusting
Instructions
For the French Toast Base:
- In a large shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined
- Place bread slices in the egg mixture, letting them soak for about 30 seconds per side
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat
- Add butter to coat the cooking surface
- Cook soaked bread slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown
- Keep warm while preparing bananas
For the Caramelized Bananas:
- In a separate large skillet, melt butter over medium heat
- Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until sugar begins to dissolve
- Add banana slices to the pan
- Cook for 2-3 minutes, gently stirring occasionally, until bananas are softened and caramel sauce is bubbly
- Remove from heat
Assembly:
- Place 2 slices of French toast on each plate
- Top with generous portions of caramelized bananas
- Drizzle with warm maple syrup
- Add a dollop of whipped cream
- Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired
- Dust with powdered sugar
- Serve immediately while warm
Pro Tips:
- Use day-old bread for best results as it absorbs the custard mixture better
- Don’t flip the French toast more than once to achieve the perfect golden crust
- If making for a crowd, keep French toast warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve
Note: Serves 4 people