Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole Recipe
Introduction
Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole is a delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Combining flaky croissants with creamy custard and sweet bananas, it’s perfect for a weekend brunch or a special treat.
Ingredients
- Croissants (4–5, preferably day-old)
- Bananas (2, sliced)
- Eggs (6 large)
- Milk (2 cups)
- Vanilla extract (1 teaspoon)
- Cinnamon (1 teaspoon)
- Maple syrup or preferred sweetener (for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1: Slice the croissants into bite-sized pieces and layer them evenly in a greased baking dish.
- Step 2: In a bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
- Step 3: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant pieces, making sure they are fully soaked.
- Step 4: Arrange the banana slices on top of the soaked croissants in the dish.
- Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 35–40 minutes or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown.
- Step 6: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before drizzling with maple syrup or your preferred sweetener. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use day-old croissants for the best texture, as fresh croissants may become too mushy.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for a crunchy topping.
- Swap bananas for other fresh fruits such as berries or apples for variety.
- For a richer custard, replace some or all of the milk with half-and-half or cream.
Storage
Store any leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or in a 350°F (175°C) oven until warmed through. For the best texture, avoid storing at room temperature.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I prepare this casserole the night before?
Yes, you can assemble the casserole the night before, cover it, and refrigerate. Bake it in the morning, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time if needed.
Can I use other types of bread instead of croissants?
Absolutely! While croissants give a flaky, buttery texture, brioche or challah bread work well as substitutes for a similar custardy French toast experience.
PrintBanana Croissant French Toast Casserole Recipe
This Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole is a delightful breakfast or brunch dish that combines flaky, buttery croissants with ripe bananas and a rich cinnamon-vanilla custard. Baked to golden perfection, it’s an indulgent, easy-to-make recipe perfect for family gatherings or weekend mornings. Topped with a drizzle of maple syrup, it offers a perfect balance of sweetness and warmth.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Croissant Layer
- 4 large croissants, sliced
Custard Mixture
- 6 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
Toppings
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- Maple syrup or sweetener, for drizzling
Instructions
- Prepare the Croissants: Slice the croissants into thick pieces and arrange them evenly in a greased baking dish, creating the base layer for your casserole.
- Make the Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine and Soak: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the croissant slices in the baking dish, making sure all pieces are coated to absorb the custard.
- Add Bananas: Arrange the sliced bananas on top of the custard-soaked croissants, distributing them evenly for maximum flavor throughout the dish.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes, or until the custard is set and the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Drizzle with maple syrup or your preferred sweetener before serving warm.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use half-and-half or cream instead of milk.
- You can prepare this casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight; bake it in the morning.
- Add chopped nuts like walnuts or pecans for added texture.
- Gluten-free croissants can be used to make this recipe gluten-free.
- If bananas are very ripe, they will add more natural sweetness and creaminess.
Keywords: banana croissant casserole, french toast casserole, baked french toast, easy brunch recipe, cinnamon vanilla french toast
