Name: Easy Caramelized Banana French Toast Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2-3 large bananas; 2 tbsp honey; 1 tbsp salted butter; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 2 large eggs; 1 cup milk; 1 tbsp honey; 1 tsp vanilla extract; 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg; 8 slices bread (3/4-1 inch thick if unsliced); Additional butter for cooking as needed; Pure maple syrup; Fresh berries; Whipped cream

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Introduction

Easy Caramelized Banana French Toast is a delicious twist on a classic breakfast favorite. Sweet bananas caramelized in honey and butter add a rich, buttery flavor to crisp, golden French toast. It’s perfect for a cozy morning or weekend brunch treat.

A stack of four golden-brown pancakes is arranged on a white scalloped plate, each layer showing a fluffy and slightly crisp texture. Between the second and third pancake, a white creamy layer is visible, adding softness. On top, caramelized banana slices with a rich brown color create a glossy, textured layer. Warm maple syrup is being poured from a white pitcher onto the stack, flowing down over the banana and pancakes, adding shine and moisture. A silver fork rests on the right side of the plate, all set on a white marbled surface with a soft, neutral background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2-3 large bananas
2 tbsp honey
1 tbsp salted butter
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 large eggs
1 cup milk
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
8 slices bread

Instructions

Step 1: Slice the bananas into ½ inch thick coins and set aside.
Step 2: In a medium skillet over medium heat, whisk together the salted butter, 2 tablespoons honey, and 1 teaspoon cinnamon. Cook until the mixture begins to simmer.
Step 3: Add the banana slices in a single layer to the pan. Cook for about 3 minutes until the bottoms are crunchy and golden brown.
Step 4: Flip the bananas and cook for another 3 minutes to caramelize the other side. Remove from heat and transfer the bananas to a small bowl. Set aside.
Step 5: In a large shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, 1 tablespoon honey, vanilla extract, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, and nutmeg until well combined.
Step 6: Wipe out the skillet and return it to medium heat. If the bread isn’t pre-sliced, cut it into thick slices about 3/4 to 1 inch thick.
Step 7: Dip a slice of bread into the egg mixture, letting it soak for 5-10 seconds per side. Then place it immediately on the hot skillet.
Step 8: Repeat with another slice of bread and cook both for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Add a tablespoon of butter to the pan as needed between batches.
Step 9: Continue dipping and cooking the remaining slices of bread the same way.
Step 10: Spoon the caramelized bananas over the cooked French toast. Optionally, drizzle with pure maple syrup and top with fresh berries or whipped cream. Serve warm and enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use day-old bread for better texture, as it soaks up the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
For a vegan version, substitute eggs with a flaxseed or chia egg and use plant-based milk and vegan butter.
Add a pinch of salt to the egg mixture to enhance the flavors.
Try adding a splash of orange juice or zest to the banana caramel for a bright citrus twist.

Storage

Store leftover French toast in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a toaster oven or skillet to maintain crispness. Caramelized bananas are best enjoyed fresh but can be refrigerated separately for up to 1 day.

How to Serve

A stack of five thick golden-brown pancakes sits on a white scalloped plate, each pancake displaying a slightly crisp texture with uneven edges. On top of the stack, there are caramelized banana slices with a light brown caramelized surface and a dollop of white cream. A woman's hand is pouring a stream of amber syrup from a small white pitcher, the syrup glistening as it flows onto the bananas and pancakes. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface, with a milk bottle blurred in the background and a silver fork resting near the plate. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use any type of bread for French toast?

Yes, thicker slices like brioche, challah, or sourdough work best because they absorb the custard without falling apart. Avoid very thin or soft sandwich bread for better texture.

How do I prevent the French toast from getting soggy?

Using slightly stale bread helps absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy. Also, soak the bread briefly and cook it on medium heat until golden brown on both sides to firm it up.