Caramelized Banana French Toast

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:

  1. In a large shallow bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined
  2. Place bread slices in the egg mixture, letting them soak for about 30 seconds per side
  3. Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat
  4. Add butter to coat the cooking surface
  5. Cook soaked bread slices for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown
  6. Keep warm while preparing bananas

For the Caramelized Bananas:

  1. In a separate large skillet, melt butter over medium heat
  2. Add brown sugar, cinnamon, and salt, stirring until sugar begins to dissolve
  3. Add banana slices to the pan
  4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, gently stirring occasionally, until bananas are softened and caramel sauce is bubbly
  5. Remove from heat

Assembly:

  1. Place 2 slices of French toast on each plate
  2. Top with generous portions of caramelized bananas
  3. Drizzle with warm maple syrup
  4. Add a dollop of whipped cream
  5. Sprinkle with chopped nuts if desired
  6. Dust with powdered sugar
  7. 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