Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast

Name: Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 slices of banana bread; 3 eggs; 1/2 cup milk; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon; Butter for cooking; Maple syrup for serving; Powdered sugar for garnish

Highlighted under: Festive Comfort Classics

Spring is the season for fresh beginnings, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a delightful Banana Bread French Toast. I love how the sweet flavors of ripe bananas blend perfectly with warm spices, creating a brunch dish that's sure to impress. This recipe transforms leftover banana bread into a luxurious treat, perfect for leisurely weekend mornings. Just a touch of maple syrup and a sprinkle of powdered sugar elevate each bite, making this a breakfast we look forward to all spring long.

Created by

Blair Hudson

Last updated on 2026-02-24T05:56:48.310Z

When I first decided to make this Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast, I was looking for a creative way to use up leftover banana bread. The combination of the dense, moist bread and the rich egg custard was an unexpected delight. I tried to keep things simple, using just a handful of ingredients to allow the natural flavors to shine.

After a few tests, I discovered that adding a hint of vanilla and a pinch of cinnamon to the egg mixture made all the difference. It enhances the banana flavors while offering a comforting aroma that fills the kitchen, making this dish irresistible!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A perfect way to use up leftover banana bread
The combination of banana and warm spices is simply heavenly
So easy to prepare, yet impressive enough for guests

The Art of Soaking

Soaking the banana bread is a crucial step in achieving the perfect texture for your French toast. The egg mixture must fully envelop the bread, allowing it to absorb the flavors. Aim for about 20-30 seconds of soaking time on each side; this will ensure the bread is moist without becoming overly soggy. Too little time will leave some areas dry, while too much can cause it to fall apart during cooking.

When selecting banana bread, consider its moisture content. If your banana bread is drier than ideal, it may require a slightly longer soak. Conversely, if your bread is very fresh and moist, reduce the soaking time to prevent it from becoming too mushy. Being mindful of your bread's texture will enhance the overall outcome of the dish.

Mastering Cooking Techniques

Cooking the French toast at an even medium heat is key. If the skillet is too hot, the outside may brown too quickly while the inside remains uncooked. You want to achieve a golden-brown crust, which usually takes about 3-4 minutes per side. Watch for the edges of the bread to become crisp and golden before flipping—this is a good indicator that they're ready!

For a rich flavor, consider using clarified butter or a neutral oil alongside regular butter. Clarified butter has a higher smoke point, allowing you to keep the heat up without burning your fat. This can be particularly useful if you’re making multiple batches at once, as it prevents the need to repeatedly add fresh butter to the pan.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients to make this delicious French toast.

Ingredients

4 slices of banana bread
3 eggs
1/2 cup milk
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
Butter for cooking
Maple syrup for serving
Powdered sugar for garnish

Once you have gathered everything, you’ll be ready to create this brunch masterpiece.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your delicious French toast.

Prepare the Egg Mixture

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

Soak the Banana Bread

Dunk each slice of banana bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are well-coated.

Cook the French Toast

Heat a skillet over medium heat and add butter. Once melted, place the soaked banana bread slices onto the skillet. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.

Serve and Enjoy

Serve warm with maple syrup and a dusting of powdered sugar. Enjoy your spring brunch!

Enjoy your homemade Spring Brunch Banana Bread French Toast with your favorite toppings.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch, try adding nuts or chocolate chips to your banana bread before cooking to enhance the texture and flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten up this recipe, you can substitute the whole milk with a milk alternative such as almond or oat milk. While it may change the flavor slightly, the texture will remain creamy and satisfying. Additionally, using egg substitutes like flaxseed meal mixed with water can cater to those needing a vegan version of the dish.

For those who may want to avoid sugar, consider using a sugar-free maple syrup or a homemade fruit syrup made from warm blended berries. It’s a delicious way to top off this dish without excess sugar, and the fresh fruit flavor will enhance the banana bread's natural sweetness.

Storing and Reheating

Should you have any leftovers (which is often a rarity), store any uneaten slices in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the skillet over medium-low heat for about 2-3 minutes per side. This helps restore the original texture, ensuring crispy edges with soft interiors.

For longer storage, you can freeze the cooked French toast. Allow it to cool completely before placing slices in a single layer on a baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to three months. To serve, reheat directly from the freezer in the oven or toaster, ensuring it's warmed through while keeping its delightful crunch.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought banana bread?

Absolutely! Store-bought banana bread works perfectly for this recipe.

→ What other breads can I use?

Feel free to use any bread you love, such as brioche or challah, for a different spin on this dish.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the egg mixture and soak the bread slices the night before. Just cook them in the morning.

→ Is there a dairy-free option?

Certainly! Substitute the milk with almond milk or coconut milk for a dairy-free version.