Description
This Banana Walnut French Toast Overnight Bake is the perfect way to start a cozy morning. With soft, custardy bread, naturally sweet bananas, and toasted walnuts for a satisfying crunch, it’s a make-ahead breakfast that’s ideal for weekends, brunch gatherings, or festive mornings. Preparing it the night before lets the custard soak into the bread, ensuring a rich, flavorful dish that’s ready to bake in the morning.
Ingredients
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1 loaf of day-old bread (brioche or challah), cut into 1-inch cubes
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3 large ripe bananas, sliced
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1 cup chopped walnuts, toasted
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6 large eggs
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2 cups whole milk
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1/2 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup granulated sugar
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1/4 cup brown sugar
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2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
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1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
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1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
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Pinch of salt
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Optional: powdered sugar for serving
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Optional: maple syrup for serving
Instructions
ctions
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Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
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Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–5 minutes until fragrant. Let cool.
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Layer half of the bread cubes in the dish, then half the banana slices and half the walnuts. Repeat with remaining bread, bananas, and walnuts.
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In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
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Pour custard over the bread, pressing gently to soak all cubes. Cover with foil and refrigerate overnight or at least 4 hours.
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Bake covered at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake another 20–25 minutes until top is golden and custard is set.
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Let cool 5–10 minutes. Dust with powdered sugar or drizzle with maple syrup before serving.
Notes
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Day-old bread works best for soaking.
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Ripe bananas add natural sweetness and creamy texture.
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Toasting walnuts enhances flavor and adds crunch.
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Optional toppings: fresh berries, maple syrup, or powdered sugar.
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Can be made ahead and refrigerated overnight for easy morning baking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 50–55 minutes