Imagine waking up to a breakfast so decadent, so irresistibly delicious, that it transforms your ordinary morning into a gourmet experience. This Baked Banana Macadamia French Toast isn't just a meal—it's a culinary adventure that will make your taste buds dance with joy. Forget boring breakfast routines; this recipe combines the creamy richness of ripe bananas, the crunch of macadamia nuts, and the classic comfort of French toast, all baked to golden perfection. Get ready to elevate your breakfast game and become the breakfast hero of your household!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices of bread
- 2 ripe bananas, sliced
- 1 cup macadamia nuts, chopped
- 4 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined and smooth. This creates the custard base for the French toast.
- Dip each slice of bread into the egg mixture, ensuring both sides are thoroughly coated. Allow excess mixture to drip off before placing in the baking dish.
- Arrange the soaked bread slices in a single layer in the prepared baking dish, slightly overlapping if needed.
- Evenly distribute sliced bananas between the bread slices, tucking some pieces underneath and on top of the bread.
- Sprinkle chopped macadamia nuts generously over the entire surface of the bread and bananas.
- Drizzle maple syrup evenly across the entire dish, ensuring good coverage.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the custard is set.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set and makes serving easier.
- Serve warm, optionally garnishing with additional maple syrup, fresh banana slices, or a dusting of powdered sugar.
Tips
- Choose the Right Bread: Use slightly stale bread like brioche or challah for the best texture. Day-old bread absorbs the custard more effectively.
- Banana Selection: Use ripe bananas with brown spots for maximum sweetness and easier slicing.
- Macadamia Nut Tip: Lightly toast the macadamia nuts before chopping to enhance their flavor and add extra crunch.
- Custard Consistency: Whisk the egg mixture thoroughly to ensure a smooth, even coating on the bread.
- Prevent Soggy Bottom: Don't oversoak the bread. A quick dip is sufficient to prevent a mushy texture.
- Even Baking: Rotate the baking dish halfway through cooking to ensure uniform golden browning.
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the dish the night before and refrigerate, then bake in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
- Serving Suggestion: Warm plates before serving to keep the French toast hot and appetizing.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 34g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 210mg
