This Crispy Banana French Toast is a yummy breakfast treat! It’s made with buttery bread, sweet bananas, and a golden, crunchy coating that makes it extra special.
You can top it with syrup or some whipped cream for a fun brunch. I love how the bananas caramelize and make everything taste amazing! You’re going to want repeat bites of this one! 🍌🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: Brioche or challah are the best choices here as they give a tender texture and absorb the egg mixture well. If you can’t find them, use thick slices of any white bread or sourdough as an alternative. Just make sure it’s a bit stale for better soaking!
Bananas: Ripe bananas are essential because they add natural sweetness. If you’re not a fan of bananas, you could swap them with berries or cooked apples for a different flavor.
Eggs and Milk: The egg mixture gives stuffing to the bread. Lighter alternatives like almond milk or oat milk work well for a dairy-free version. You can also use flax eggs if you’re following a vegan diet!
Cereal Coating: Cornflakes create an awesome crunch! If you’re gluten-free, try crushed gluten-free cereal or panko crumbs instead. I like to mix things up sometimes by adding crushed nuts to the coating for extra texture!
How Do You Get the Perfect Crispy Coating?
Getting that crispy exterior is key for this French toast. Here’s how to achieve it:
- Whisk together your egg mixture well to ensure it’s smooth; it helps the bread absorb flavors.
- Don’t let the bread soak too long in the egg mixture—just a quick dip on each side makes it perfect. Too soggy leads to messiness!
- Make sure the crushed cornflakes cover the bread well; press gently to really stick.
- Use medium heat when frying. High heat can burn the coating before the inside cooks. Patience is key here!
These tips will help you make crispy, delicious banana French toast every time! Enjoy an amazing breakfast the whole family will love.
Crispy Banana French Toast
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the French Toast:
- 4 thick slices of bread (preferably brioche or challah)
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced (plus extra for topping)
- 3 large eggs
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tbsp granulated sugar
For Coating:
- 1 cup cornflakes or crispy cereal, crushed finely
- Butter, for frying
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have your breakfast ready in about 30 minutes total. Perfect for a leisurely weekend brunch!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Egg Mixture:
In a shallow dish, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and sugar until everything is nicely combined and smooth. This mixture is what gives your French toast its rich flavor!
2. Get Your Coating Ready:
In another shallow plate, pour out the crushed cornflakes. This will be the crispy coating that makes your French toast extra special.
3. Heat the Skillet:
Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter to coat the bottom of the skillet—this ensures your French toast won’t stick and will fry to golden perfection.
4. Dip the Bread:
Take each slice of bread and dip it into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for just a moment. Be careful not to let it get too soggy—just a quick dip is enough!
5. Coat with Cornflakes:
Next, press each side of the soaked bread into the crushed cornflakes. Make sure they stick well for a crunchy texture with every bite!
6. Fry the French Toast:
Carefully place the coated slices into the hot skillet. Fry for about 3-4 minutes on each side, keeping an eye on them. You’re looking for a beautiful golden brown and crispy coating with a fully cooked inside.
7. Keep Warm:
Once cooked, remove the slices from the skillet and keep them warm on a plate while you prepare the remaining slices.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
To serve, stack your crispy French toast slices on a plate. Layer some banana slices between or on top, then generously drizzle with maple syrup. If you like, finish it off with a light dusting of powdered sugar!
Enjoy this crispy, sweet, and banana-filled French toast breakfast! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Absolutely! While brioche or challah are ideal, you can use any thick-sliced bread you have on hand, like sourdough or white bread. Just make sure it’s a bit stale for better absorption of the egg mixture!
Can I Make This Recipe Dairy-Free?
Yes! Substitute the whole milk with almond milk, oat milk, or any other plant-based milk. For added creaminess, you could use a dairy-free cream alternative!
Can I Prepare the French Toast Ahead of Time?
Sure! You can prepare the egg mixture and even coat the bread a few hours ahead. Once ready to cook, just store them in the fridge until you’re set to fry them up. Just remember, freshly cooked is best for crispiness!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
If you have any leftovers, place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, pop them in a toaster or a hot skillet for a few minutes to regain their crispiness!
