Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole Recipe: A Sweet Breakfast Treat
When I first made this Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole, I couldn’t believe how simple yet indulgent it was. It’s the perfect way to use up leftover croissants and create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Whether you’re hosting brunch or just treating yourself, this recipe is as comforting as my favorite Spinach Garlic Meatballs Stuffed with Mozzarella. Let’s dive into this sweet and satisfying breakfast!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious casserole. Each ingredient adds its own magic to the dish!
- 1 cup whole milk (for a creamy base)
- 1 cup heavy cream (adds richness to the custard)
- 2 large eggs (binds the custard together)
- 1 cup granulated sugar (for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (for a warm, aromatic flavor)
- 1 tablespoon banana extract (enhances the banana flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (balances the sweetness)
- 1 ripe banana, sliced (adds natural sweetness and texture)
- 6 day-old croissants, cut into 1-2 inch pieces (perfect for soaking up the custard)
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional but highly recommended)
Note: This recipe serves 4, making it ideal for a small family breakfast or brunch.
Variations to Try
Want to customize your Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole? Here are some fun variations to suit your taste or dietary needs. These ideas also work great for dinner recipes!
- Nutty twist: Add chopped pecans or walnuts for a crunchy texture.
- Chocolate lovers: Sprinkle chocolate chips between the croissant layers.
- Dairy-free: Use almond milk and coconut cream as substitutes.
- Tropical vibe: Add shredded coconut and a drizzle of pineapple syrup.
Cooking Time and Equipment
Here’s how long it’ll take to whip up this recipe and the tools you’ll need:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45–50 minutes
- Total Time: 55–60 minutes
Equipment You’ll Need:
- Large mixing bowl (to whisk the custard)
- Whisk (for smooth mixing)
- 8 x 8-inch baking dish (perfect size for this recipe)
- Cooking spray (to prevent sticking)
- Sharp knife (to slice the croissants and bananas)
How to Make Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole
Making this casserole is as easy as it is delicious! Follow these simple steps for a perfect result.
Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside. This ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
Step 2: Make the Custard
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, banana extract, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard will soak into the croissants, making them soft and flavorful.
Step 3: Soak the Croissants
Add the croissant pieces to the custard mixture and gently mix until they’re fully coated. Let the mixture sit for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even soaking. This step is key to achieving a soft, custard-like texture.
Step 4: Assemble and Bake
Pour the soaked croissant mixture into the prepared baking dish. Nestle the banana slices evenly throughout the dish. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the croissants are golden brown. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Additional Tips for Making This Recipe Better
From my experience, these tips will help you make the best Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole:
- Use day-old croissants: They soak up the custard better without becoming mushy.
- Don’t skip the resting time: Letting the croissants soak ensures every bite is flavorful.
- Check for doneness: The custard should be set but still slightly jiggly in the center.
- Serve warm: This casserole tastes best when served fresh out of the oven.
How to Serve Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole
This casserole is a showstopper on its own, but you can elevate it with these serving ideas. It also pairs wonderfully with a cozy Dill Pickle Bread Recipe!
- Drizzle with warm maple syrup for extra sweetness.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
- Sprinkle with powdered sugar for a classic touch.
- Serve with fresh fruit like berries or sliced bananas for a refreshing contrast.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick look at the nutritional breakdown per serving:
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fat: 25g
How to Store Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole
- Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10 minutes or microwave for 30 seconds.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! Here’s why you’ll love it:
- Easy to make: Simple steps and minimal prep time.
- Perfect for brunch: A crowd-pleaser for any gathering.
- Customizable: Endless options to suit your taste.
- Comforting: A warm, sweet dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
- Great for leftovers: Tastes just as good the next day!
Common Mistakes to Avoid for Better Results
Avoid these pitfalls to ensure your Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole turns out perfectly:
- Using fresh croissants: Day-old croissants work better for soaking up the custard.
- Skipping the resting time: This step is crucial for even flavor distribution.
- Overbaking: Keep an eye on the casserole to prevent it from drying out.
- Not greasing the dish: This makes serving and cleanup much easier.
- Serving too soon: Let the casserole cool slightly to set the custard.
Banana Croissant French Toast Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spray an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with cooking spray and set it aside. This ensures the casserole doesn’t stick and makes cleanup easier.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the milk, heavy cream, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, banana extract, and salt. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well combined. This custard will soak into the croissants, making them soft and flavorful.
- Add the croissant pieces to the custard mixture and gently mix until they’re fully coated. Let the mixture sit for 25–30 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even soaking. This step is key to achieving a soft, custard-like texture.
- Pour the soaked croissant mixture into the prepared baking dish. Nestle the banana slices evenly throughout the dish. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the custard is set and the croissants are golden brown. Let the casserole cool for 10 minutes before serving.