Print

Baked Banana Toast Casserole Recipe

4.7 from 53 reviews

This delightful Baked Banana Toast Casserole is a warm, comforting breakfast dish that combines chunks of sourdough bread with fresh bananas, a rich custard base, and a crumbly cinnamon streusel topping. Prepared the night before and baked to perfection, it’s perfect for a cozy morning or a special brunch.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread Base

  • 1 lb sourdough or French bread, cut into chunks

Egg Mixture

  • 8 large eggs
  • 2 cups (480ml) whole or 2% milk
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
  • 1/2 cup (104g) granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup (36g) light brown sugar, unpacked
  • 2 tsp vanilla extract
  • 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon

Fruit

  • 67 medium bananas, chopped

Streusel Topping

  • 3/4 cup (98g) all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup (169g) firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 cup (112g) salted butter, cut into pieces

Instructions

  1. Prepare the casserole dish: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking during baking.
  2. Prepare bread base: Place the chunks of sourdough or French bread into a large mixing bowl and set aside for now.
  3. Create egg mixture: In a separate large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, light brown sugar, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until fully blended and smooth.
  4. Combine ingredients: Pour the egg mixture over the bread chunks, then add the chopped bananas. Gently stir everything together ensuring the bread pieces soak up the custard and bananas are evenly distributed.
  5. Set overnight: Transfer the combined mixture into the prepared casserole dish, spreading it evenly. Cover it with plastic wrap or a lid, then refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to absorb the custard fully.
  6. Preheat oven: When ready to bake, preheat your oven to 350°F (176°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature.
  7. Initial baking: Bake the casserole uncovered for 35-40 minutes until it is mostly set and slightly golden on top.
  8. Prepare streusel: While the casserole bakes, mix the all-purpose flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon in a bowl. Add the cut pieces of salted butter and use a fork or your fingers to mash and blend the butter into the dry ingredients until the mixture becomes crumbly and streusel-like.
  9. Add streusel topping: Remove the casserole from the oven and evenly sprinkle the streusel topping on top of the casserole.
  10. Final bake: Return the casserole to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes until the streusel melts slightly and turns golden brown.
  11. Serve: Allow the casserole to cool slightly before serving warm. It pairs wonderfully with maple syrup or your favorite syrup topping.

Notes

  • This casserole can be prepared a day in advance, saving time on busy mornings.
  • Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
  • Feel free to substitute the sourdough with French or even challah bread for a different texture.
  • Adjust the cinnamon amount according to your preference for spice.
  • The streusel topping adds a lovely crunch but can be omitted for a simpler version.
  • Store any leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

Keywords: banana casserole, baked banana toast, breakfast casserole, overnight casserole, banana bread breakfast, streusel topping, brunch recipe