Bananas Foster French Toast
There’s something magical about a lazy weekend morning when the sun shines through the windows, and the smell of a delicious breakfast fills the air. One of my all-time favorite dishes to whip up during these precious moments is Bananas Foster French Toast. It combines the warm, comforting flavors of rich, buttery bread with the sweet, caramelized goodness of bananas. It’s a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also creates lasting memories around the breakfast table. I can vividly recall the first time I made this delectable treat; the kids were bubbling with excitement as they anticipated their first bite. The way the bananas soften and meld with the warm sauce creates a delightful experience that is simply irresistible.
Recipe Snapshot
30 mins
10 mins
20 mins
Easy
420 kcal
7 g
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
20 g
Skillet, Frying Pan, Whisk, Blender, Peeler, Chef’s Knife, Mixing Bowl
Why This Bananas Foster French Toast Is a Winner
Decadent Flavor Combination
What makes Bananas Foster French Toast truly special is the combination of flavors. The rich caramel sauce, made with unsalted butter and brown sugar, bathes the toasted bread and complements the tender, sweet bananas. Each bite is a perfect balance of creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy, thanks to the addition of whipping cream.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This dish is incredibly versatile. Whether it’s a special occasion or just a regular Sunday brunch, Bananas Foster French Toast elevates any meal. It’s warm, comforting, and feels luxurious while being quite easy to prepare. You’ll find it becomes a staple in your breakfast rotation.
Easy to Prepare
Don’t let the name fool you; this dish is simple to make. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have a delicious breakfast ready in no time. The prep work involves tossing together eggs, milk, and cream, and the cooking process consists mainly of soaking the bread and frying it until golden.
Impressive Presentation
When you serve Bananas Foster French Toast, it looks as stunning as it tastes. The warm banana sauce drizzled over the perfectly cooked French toast makes it an eye-catching dish that will impress your family and guests alike. You can top it off with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of indulgence.
Kid-Approved
If you have little ones at home, this dish is guaranteed to win their hearts. The combination of soft bread and sweet bananas is always a hit. I often find myself making this on Saturday mornings when the kids are feeling a little more adventurous with their food choices.
Comforting and Satisfying
There’s nothing quite like a warm plate of Bananas Foster French Toast to start your day. It’s a meal that not only fills your stomach but warms your heart. Each bite will have you reminiscing about family gatherings and cozy breakfasts.
Shopping List for Bananas Foster French Toast

When it comes to making Bananas Foster French Toast, the right ingredients can make all the difference. This recipe features a delightful blend of flavors that come together beautifully. The key players include sweet bananas, rich butter, and fluffy brioche or challah bread. Each ingredient contributes to the overall taste and texture, creating a breakfast that feels indulgent yet is simple to prepare.
- 4 ounces (1 stick) unsalted butter: This forms the base of the caramel sauce, providing richness and flavor.
- 1/2 cup packed dark brown sugar: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce, helping to caramelize the bananas.
- 2 tablespoons water: Helps to create a smooth sauce when mixed with the butter and sugar.
- 4 bananas: Peeled and cut into slices, these provide a sweet and soft texture that melts in your mouth.
- 3 large whole eggs: Essential for creating the custard that soaks into the bread.
- 3 large egg yolks: Adds richness to the custard for a decadent flavor.
- 1/2 cup whole milk: Provides a creamy base for the custard mixture.
- 1/4 cup whipping cream: Enhances the richness of the French toast.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Adds a lovely aroma and flavor.
- 6 slices (3/4-inch thick) brioche or challah bread: The star of the dish, these breads soak up the custard beautifully.
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter: For cooking the French toast on the griddle, adding flavor and moisture.
- Whipped cream (optional): A delightful topping to finish off the dish.
Bananas Foster French Toast Instructions

Making Bananas Foster French Toast is an enjoyable process that brings such joy to breakfast. Follow the steps below, and soon you’ll be delighting in this delicious dish. Each step will guide you through the process for perfect results.
- Melt the butter in a large stainless-steel skillet over medium heat. You’ll want to see it start to foam slightly, indicating it’s hot enough. As the butter melts, its rich aroma fills the kitchen, setting the stage for deliciousness. Once melted, add the brown sugar. Stir with a whisk until the mixture is smooth and the sugar has completely dissolved, forming a lovely caramel sauce that will envelop the bananas.
- Add the water to the skillet and whisk again until smooth. This helps to thin out the caramel a bit. Allow it to bubble gently, which will enhance the flavor further. While you’re stirring, you might notice how the mixture becomes glossy and inviting. This is your sauce, and it will soon become a delightful topping.
- Cover the skillet and set it aside to keep warm while you prepare the French toast. This brief pause allows the flavors to meld beautifully. If you can, take a moment to inhale the sweet scent wafting from the skillet; it’s a preview of the deliciousness to come!
- In a large bowl, whisk together the whole eggs and egg yolks. You want them to be well combined, with a frothy appearance. This ensures that your custard will cling beautifully to the bread, making every bite flavorful.
- Gradually whisk in the whole milk, whipping cream, and vanilla. Mixing these ingredients together creates a rich, creamy custard that’s perfect for soaking the bread. The aroma of vanilla brings everything together beautifully, making your mouth water.
- Now it’s time to dip the bread! Take each slice of brioche or challah and immerse it into the custard, turning to coat on both sides. Make sure to let it soak for a moment so every slice absorbs that delicious mixture. You’ll know it’s ready when the bread feels soft and slightly mushy.
- Heat a large griddle pan over medium heat, ensuring it’s hot but not smoking. Add 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter to the pan and let it melt, coating the surface evenly. Once melted, it’s time to start cooking the soaked bread.
- Working in batches, transfer the soaked bread slices to the griddle using a slotted spatula. Cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Flip the slices carefully to prevent them from breaking apart. You’re looking for a beautiful golden hue and a slight crispiness on the outside.
- Add more butter as needed for each batch, ensuring each slice has enough fat to cook properly. This not only prevents sticking but also adds flavor. Each batch should smell amazing, making it hard to resist sneaking a piece!
- While the bread is cooking, return to your sauce. Add the sliced bananas to the skillet with the caramel sauce. Cook them gently until they are almost tender, tossing them gently for about 3 minutes. You want them to soften but not fall apart, allowing them to soak up that rich flavor.
- Once the French toast is cooked through, transfer it to plates. Generously top each slice with the banana sauce, ensuring each serving gets a good amount of that luscious caramel. If desired, finish with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra bit of indulgence. Now it’s time to serve and enjoy your Bananas Foster French Toast!
Things Worth Knowing
- Use day-old bread: Stale bread is ideal for French toast as it absorbs the custard without becoming too soggy.
- Monitor the heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures that the French toast cooks evenly without burning.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding chopped nuts or a sprinkle of cinnamon for extra flavor and texture.
- Make a double batch: This recipe is great for feeding a crowd. You can always make extra and enjoy leftovers!
Recipe Variations about Bananas Foster French Toast

There are endless ways to put a spin on Bananas Foster French Toast. Whether you want to change up the flavor profile or add extra ingredients, here are some ideas to get you started.
- Use different bread: Swap brioche or challah for whole wheat or gluten-free bread for a healthier option.
- Add spices: Experiment with spices like cinnamon or nutmeg in the custard mixture for added warmth and flavor.
- Mix in chocolate: Add chocolate chips to the dip or sprinkle some on top for a decadent twist.
- Fruit variations: Try adding other fruits, such as strawberries or peaches, for a mixed fruit medley.
- Nut butter: Spread some almond or peanut butter on the bread before soaking for a nutty flavor.
- Vegan options: Substitute eggs with silken tofu or a banana mixture and use plant-based milk for a vegan version.
- Make it savory: For a savory spin, omit the sugar and bananas and use cheese and herbs instead.
Serving This Bananas Foster French Toast
Serving Bananas Foster French Toast can be as delightful as making it. Here are some ideas to enhance your breakfast experience:
- Pair with fresh fruit: Serve alongside a fruit salad or fresh berries to add a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
- Perfect for brunch: This dish is great for special occasions, such as brunch parties or family gatherings.
- Garnish simply: A light dusting of powdered sugar or a sprinkle of cinnamon can elevate the presentation without overpowering the dish.
- Consider drinks: Pair with fresh coffee or a creamy latte for a cozy morning vibe.
- Leftover storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. Reheat gently in a skillet.
- Serve warm: For the best experience, serve immediately while the French toast is warm and the sauce is gooey.
- Explore variations: Encourage guests to customize their plates with toppings like syrup, nuts, or extra whipped cream.
FAQ
Conclusion
Bananas Foster French Toast is a delightful dish that combines luscious flavors and textures to create a breakfast experience that’s truly unforgettable. The creamy bananas, rich sauce, and perfectly cooked bread come together to make every bite a treat. I urge you to try making this dish for your next special brunch or even just a cozy weekend breakfast. You won’t regret it!

Bananas Foster French Toast
Equipment
- Skillet
- Frying Pan
- Whisk
- Blender
- Peeler
- Chef's Knife
- Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 ounces unsalted butter 1 stick
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar packed
- 2 tablespoons water
- 4 bananas peeled and cut diagonally into 1/2-inch-thick slices
- 3 large whole eggs
- 3 large egg yolks
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/4 cup whipping cream
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 6 slices brioche or challah bread 3/4-inch thick
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter about
- Whipped cream optional
Instructions
- Melt the butter in a large stainless-steel skillet with a lid over medium heat. Add the brown sugar and whisk until it melts into the butter. Add the water and whisk until smooth. Cover and set aside while you prepare the French toast.
- Whisk the whole eggs and egg yolks in a large bowl to blend. Gradually whisk in the milk, cream, and vanilla. Dip the bread slices into the egg mixture, turning to coat and soak until they are completely moistened with the custard.
- Heat a heavy, large griddle pan over medium heat. Melt 1 tablespoon of butter on the griddle. Working in batches, transfer the soaked bread to the pan with a slotted spatula and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 3 minutes per side. Add more butter as needed for each batch.
- To serve, add the banana slices to the sauce and cook until the bananas are almost tender, tossing gently, about 3 minutes. Transfer the French toast to plates. Top each with the banana sauce and whipped cream, if desired.
Notes
- Tip 1: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
- Tip 2: Reheat gently in a skillet to restore its deliciousness.
- Tip 3: Consider pairing with fresh coffee or a creamy latte.
- Tip 4: Feel free to experiment with toppings like syrup or nuts.
- Tip 5: Serve immediately while warm for the best experience.


