Description
Decadent French toast made with challah or brioche, topped with caramelized bananas and a hint of rum. A perfect weekend brunch treat!
Ingredients
Scale
- 6 slices challah or brioche bread, about 1 inch thick
- 3 large eggs
- ¾ cup milk (whole milk recommended)
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Pinch of salt
- 3 tablespoons butter, divided
- 2 ripe but firm bananas, sliced into ½-inch thick rounds
- ¼ cup packed brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
- Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare Custard: In a large, shallow dish, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Soak Bread: Gently place each bread slice into the custard mixture, soaking for 2-3 minutes per side, until thoroughly saturated but not falling apart.
- Prepare Cooking Surface: Use a large non-stick skillet or griddle. Grease well with butter or cooking spray if not non-stick.
- Caramelize Bananas: In a separate skillet, melt 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Add banana slices in a single layer. Sprinkle with brown sugar. Cook undisturbed for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and caramelized.
- Flip Bananas: Carefully flip banana slices and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the other side is also golden brown and caramelized.
- Add Rum (Optional): If using rum, carefully pour it into the skillet. Be cautious as it may ignite (flambéing). Let flames die down on their own. Alternatively, add rum after bananas are cooked.
- Remove Bananas: Remove caramelized bananas from the skillet and set aside, keeping warm if possible.
- Cook French Toast: Melt the remaining 1 tablespoon of butter in the skillet used for the bananas.
- Cook Bread: Carefully place the soaked bread slices into the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through. Adjust heat as needed to prevent burning or undercooking.
- Remove French Toast: Remove French toast from the skillet and place on a plate.
- Assemble: Place a slice of French toast on a plate. Top with a generous portion of the caramelized bananas. Repeat with remaining French toast and bananas.
- Serve: Dust with powdered sugar (optional). Serve immediately with warm maple syrup.
Notes
- Use good quality bread like challah or brioche.
- Don’t over-soak the bread.
- Use ripe but firm bananas.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan.
- Adjust sweetness to your liking.
- Get creative with toppings like whipped cream, nuts, or berries.
- For variations, try Nutella, peanut butter, or cinnamon roll filling. Vegan options are also possible.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes