Description

Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole is a delicious and easy make-ahead breakfast that’s packed with natural banana flavor and a crunchy streusel topping. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weekend brunch, this recipe combines custardy baked bread with ripe bananas and a sweet cinnamon streusel topping for a comforting and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

Scale

Casserole

1 pound loaf Sourdough or French Bread, cut into chunks
8 large eggs
2 cups (480 ml) milk (whole or 2%)
½ cup (120 ml) heavy whipping cream
½ cup (104 g) sugar
¼ cup light brown sugar, unpacked
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 ½ teaspoons ground cinnamon
6–7 medium bananas, chopped (each sliced and cut into quarters)

Streusel Topping

¾ cup (98 g) all-purpose flour
¾ cup (169 g) brown sugar, firmly packed
1 teaspoon cinnamon
½ cup (112 g) unsalted butter, cut into pieces

Instructions

Prepare the Casserole Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and set it aside.
Combine Bread Chunks: Place the cut chunks of sourdough or French bread into a large mixing bowl and set aside.
Mix Custard Mixture: In another large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined.
Assemble Casserole: Pour the egg mixture over the bread chunks. Add the chopped bananas and gently stir to evenly coat the bread and bananas with the custard mixture.
Refrigerate Overnight: Transfer the bread and custard mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly. Cover tightly and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard.
Preheat Oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C).
Bake the Casserole: Place the casserole uncovered in the oven and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the casserole is set and starting to brown.
Prepare Streusel Topping: While the casserole bakes, combine all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add the butter pieces and use a pastry cutter or fork to mash and blend until crumbly.
Add Streusel and Finish Baking: When the casserole is nearly done, remove it from the oven and evenly crumble the streusel topping over the surface. Return casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the streusel is melted and golden.
Serve Warm: Remove the casserole from the oven and serve warm, optionally with syrup for added sweetness.

Notes

Bananas should be sliced and then each slice quartered for even distribution throughout the casserole.
The nutrition facts provided are estimates; consult a registered dietitian for precise nutritional information based on your ingredient brands and portions.
This dish can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, making it perfect for busy mornings or entertaining guests.
Use whole milk or 2% milk depending on your preference for creaminess.
For a dairy-free option, substitute milk and cream with almond or oat milk and use a vegan butter alternative for the streusel.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Category: Breakfast
Method: Baking
Cuisine: American

Keywords: banana french toast casserole, overnight breakfast casserole, baked french toast, banana breakfast, streusel topping