This tasty Bananas Foster French Toast is a fun twist on breakfast! Imagine fluffy toast topped with sweet, caramelized bananas and a sprinkle of cinnamon—yum!
Honestly, it’s hard to resist a dish that gives you dessert vibes in the morning. I love having it with a drizzle of maple syrup—best way to start the day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Thick breads like brioche or challah work best for soaking up the egg mixture, giving a soft texture. If you can’t find them, white sandwich bread or even sourdough can work; just toast them lightly first for better results.
Eggs: Large eggs are key for binding the mixture, but you can use egg substitutes if you’re avoiding eggs. Look for plant-based egg replacers or use 1/4 cup of unsweetened applesauce per egg for a fluffier texture.
Milk: Any milk works here—whole, skim, or even almond or oat milk for a dairy-free version. I prefer whole milk for a richer taste.
Rum: The rum adds a unique flavor to the caramelization. If you want to skip it or avoid alcohol, you can substitute with rum extract (just a few drops) or simply use additional lemon juice for brightness.
Bananas: Ripe bananas are crucial for sweetness. If you have overripe bananas, this is the perfect recipe! If bananas aren’t your thing, you can use peaches or apples as alternatives.
How Do I Cook the Perfect French Toast?
Cooking French toast may seem simple, but there are some tricks to ensure it’s perfectly golden and fluffy. Here’s what to focus on:
- Use a large skillet or griddle to have enough space for all your bread slices.
- Make sure your skillet is at medium heat. Too high and the outside burns before the inside cooks; too low and it won’t brown properly.
- Coat the bread well in the egg mixture, but don’t soak it too long to avoid sogginess.
- After 3-4 minutes on each side, check for golden brown color. If it’s too light, leave it a minute longer.
Keeping the cooked slices warm in an oven on low heat can ensure they stay hot as you prepare the rest. Enjoy your cooking!
Delicious Bananas Foster French Toast Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 4 slices of thick bread (Brioche or Challah)
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon
- Butter for cooking
For the Banana Topping:
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- ¼ cup brown sugar
- ¼ cup rum (optional)
- 1 tsp lemon juice
For Serving:
- Maple syrup for drizzling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time, with an additional 10 minutes for cooking. In just 20 minutes, you can have a delicious breakfast that’s sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until everything is well mixed. Set this delicious mixture aside for a moment while you get the skillet ready.
2. Cook the French Toast:
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to the pan to coat the surface. Take each slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture, making sure to coat both sides well. Once coated, place the bread slices in the skillet. Cook each slice for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remove the French toast from the skillet and keep it warm on a plate.
3. Make the Caramelized Banana Topping:
In the same skillet, add the sliced bananas and sprinkle the brown sugar over them. Gently stir and cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until the bananas are soft and caramelized. If you’re using rum, carefully add it to the bananas and cook for an additional minute to let the alcohol burn off. Finally, stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, neatly stack the warm French toast on each plate and generously spoon the caramelized bananas and sweet sauce over the top. Finish it off with a drizzle of maple syrup. Enjoy your delicious Bananas Foster French Toast!
Can I Use a Different Type of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche and challah are great choices due to their richness, you can also use sourdough, whole wheat, or even gluten-free bread. Just ensure the bread is thick enough to hold the egg mixture without falling apart.
What If I Don’t Have Rum?
No problem! If you prefer not to use rum or don’t have it on hand, you can omit it altogether. For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of vanilla extract or a dash of bourbon or apple cider vinegar to the banana mixture instead.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover French toast and caramelized bananas separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat the French toast in a toaster or skillet and warm the bananas gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I Make the Banana Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the banana sauce ahead of time. Just cook it as instructed, then let it cool and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat it gently on the stove before serving with your French toast.
