Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast

Name: Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 thick slices of banana bread; 2 large eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 tablespoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 2 tablespoons butter; Maple syrup, for serving; Powdered sugar, for serving; Fresh berries; Whipped cream; Chopped nuts

Highlighted under: Festive Comfort Classics

I love looking for new ways to enjoy banana bread, and this Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast has quickly become a favorite! The combination of ripe bananas and warm spices transforms classic bread into a rich and indulgent brunch dish. With a hint of maple syrup and a touch of cinnamon, it feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Serve it alongside fresh berries or a drizzle of whipped cream for a delightful morning treat. Trust me, this recipe is a perfect way to celebrate the arrival of spring!

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:48:42.768Z

When I first made this Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast, I was blown away by how simple yet delicious it was. I used leftover banana bread, which added a unique depth of flavor, beautifully complementing the egg custard mixture. The key is to let the bread soak enough so it absorbs all those wonderful flavors without breaking apart. Don’t rush this step!

Served with a light dusting of powdered sugar and a drizzle of maple syrup, it turned an ordinary weekend into a special occasion. I also love to serve it with fresh fruit on the side, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich toast.

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Delicious blend of banana bread and French toast flavors
Perfectly crispy on the outside, soft on the inside
Versatile for any brunch occasion, from casual to festive

Choosing the Right Banana Bread

When preparing this Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast, the type of banana bread you use is key to achieving the best flavor and texture. I recommend using slightly overripe, homemade banana bread, which is typically more flavorful and holds moisture better than store-bought varieties. If you're pressed for time, consider using a dense bakery-style banana bread, but aim for one that’s at least a day old to ensure it holds up during soaking without falling apart.

Additionally, if you want to take a flavorful twist, consider adding spices like nutmeg or a splash of bourbon to your banana bread recipe. This will not only enhance the overall flavor profile but also complement the warm spices in the egg mixture, making each bite a delightful experience. Remember, the more flavor in the bread, the more pleasurable the French toast will turn out.

Perfecting the Cooking Technique

Cooking the French toast to perfection involves managing your skillet temperature accurately. Medium heat is ideal, as it allows the bread to toast evenly without burning. If you notice the edges starting to darken too quickly while the inside remains soft, lower the heat slightly. The goal is to achieve a golden-brown crust that is crispy, creating a delightful texture contrast with the soft, moist interior.

Be careful not to over-soak the bread slices. Dipping them for about 15 seconds per side ensures they absorb the egg mixture without becoming soggy. If you find the bread too wet before cooking, lightly press it with a spatula after soaking to remove excess liquid. This technique will also help the slices maintain their shape and integrity during the cooking process.

Customizing Your Serving Experience

The beauty of this banana bread French toast lies in its versatility when it comes to toppings. Fresh berries not only add a vibrant color but also a refreshing acidity that balances the sweetness of the maple syrup. I love pairing it with strawberries and blueberries, but raspberries can add an extra tart flavor. Consider using frozen berries as an alternative; just make sure to thaw and drain them to avoid sogginess.

If you're looking for added texture and nutty flavor, chopped nuts such as pecans or walnuts can be sprinkled on top just before serving. For a richer experience, a dollop of whipped cream adds creaminess that feels indulgent. You can even create a flavor profile by infusing your whipped cream with a touch of vanilla or cinnamon to tie together all the elements of this delightful dish.

Ingredients

For the French Toast

4 thick slices of banana bread
2 large eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 tablespoon vanilla extract
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
2 tablespoons butter
Maple syrup, for serving
Powdered sugar, for serving

Optional Toppings

Fresh berries
Whipped cream
Chopped nuts

Preparation Instructions

Instructions

Steps

Prepare the Egg Mixture

In a medium bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and ground cinnamon until well combined.

Soak the Banana Bread

Dip each slice of banana bread into the egg mixture, allowing it to soak for a few minutes on both sides.

Cook the French Toast

In a skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Once it’s sizzling, add the soaked banana bread slices and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown.

Serve it Up

Remove the French toast from the skillet and serve warm, topped with maple syrup, powdered sugar, and any optional toppings.

Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use ripe and slightly overripe bananas in your bread. This will add natural sweetness and an intense banana flavor to your French toast.

Make-Ahead Options

If you're planning a brunch and want to save time, you can prepare the banana bread a day in advance. Just ensure you store it properly; wrap it tightly in plastic wrap once it has cooled completely to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can use leftover banana bread from earlier in the week, as it absorbs the egg mixture even better when it’s a little stale, enhancing the overall flavor and texture of your French toast.

Another option is to prepare the egg mixture ahead of time. Whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon, then store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to give it a quick whisk before using to re-emulsify the mixture; this will keep everything well combined for an even flavor distribution.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you find yourself with leftover French toast, it's best to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To maintain its great texture, you can reheat it in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through, or pop it into the toaster to crisp it up. Avoid microwaving, as this may lead to a chewy texture and loss of that delightful crisp crust.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual slices. Lay them flat on a baking sheet to freeze before transferring them into a freezer bag. This way, they won’t stick together, and you can take out as many slices as you need. To reheat, just follow the same instructions as for the refrigerator method, adjusting the time slightly since frozen bread will need a bit longer.

Flavor Variations

Feel free to get creative with mix-ins to your banana bread before it’s baked. Chopped chocolate, shredded coconut, or dried fruit can all add unique flavors that enhance the final dish. For example, a handful of chocolate chips will turn your French toast into a sweet treat that's perfect for special occasions.

Additionally, you can zip up the flavor of the egg mixture by incorporating citrus zest, like orange or lemon, which brings a refreshing element to the richness of the bread. Whipping together the eggs with a little almond extract instead of vanilla can also introduce a lovely nuttiness that pairs beautifully with the banana flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought banana bread?

Yes, store-bought banana bread will work well for this recipe!

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can this recipe be made gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just use gluten-free banana bread and make sure your other ingredients are also gluten-free.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture and soak the bread the night before and cook it in the morning!