Dessert

Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole Recipe

ByVictor Layne January 16, 2026January 16, 2026

Introduction

Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole is a delightful and comforting breakfast dish that combines soft bread, sweet bananas, and a rich custard, all topped with a crunchy streusel. Prepared the night before and baked in the morning, it makes busy mornings easier while delivering a warm, flavorful start to your day.

A close-up of a baked banana dessert square placed on a white plate on a white marbled surface, showing three distinct layers: a soft, light yellow base layer, a middle layer with banana slices embedded visibly, and a top layer covered with a crumbly, golden brown streusel with darker browned spots and hints of sugar crystals. The dessert appears moist with syrup pooling slightly around the edges, highlighting the texture and shine. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb loaf sourdough or French bread, cut into chunks
8 large eggs
2 cups (480ml) milk (whole or 2%)
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup (104g) sugar
1/4 cup (36g) light brown sugar, unpacked
2 tsp vanilla extract
1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
6-7 medium-sized bananas, chopped
3/4 cup (98g) all-purpose flour
3/4 cup (169g) firmly packed brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
1/2 cup (112g) salted butter, cut into pieces

Instructions

Step 1: Grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish thoroughly to prevent sticking.
Step 2: Add the bread chunks to a large bowl and set aside.
Step 3: In another large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, cream, sugars, vanilla extract, and cinnamon until well combined.
Step 4: Pour the egg mixture over the bread chunks. Add the chopped bananas and gently stir until all bread pieces are coated.
Step 5: Pour the bread mixture into the prepared casserole dish and spread evenly. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Step 6: Preheat oven to 350°F (176°C) before baking.
Step 7: Bake the casserole for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through and golden on top.
Step 8: Meanwhile, combine flour, brown sugar, and cinnamon for the streusel in a bowl. Add butter pieces and mash until crumbly.
Step 9: Remove casserole from oven when nearly done and evenly crumble streusel topping over it.
Step 10: Return casserole to oven and bake for 5 more minutes or until the topping is melted and golden.
Step 11: Serve warm, optionally drizzled with syrup or your favorite toppings. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

Use day-old or stale bread to better absorb the custard and prevent sogginess.
Choose ripe bananas for maximum sweetness and flavor.
Cover the casserole tightly and refrigerate overnight to let flavors meld.
Add nuts, chocolate chips, or berries to the mixture for extra texture and taste.
Serve with maple syrup, fresh fruit, whipped cream, or nuts for a delicious finish.
For a gluten-free version, substitute regular bread with gluten-free bread and ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag; freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F (176°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes on medium power. You can also warm slices on the stovetop over low heat, flipping occasionally.

How to Serve

A close-up of a square piece of banana dessert with three visible layers: the bottom layer is a soft, light yellow cake with banana slices embedded inside; the middle layer is a golden-brown syrup soaked into the cake, creating a shiny texture around the base; the top layer is a crumbly, golden-brown streusel with small clusters and sugar crystals sprinkled on top. The dessert is served on a white plate, placed on a white marbled surface, with a blurred yellow fruit in the background. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole without eggs?

Yes, you can use egg substitutes like flaxseed meal or applesauce for a vegan version, but this may slightly change the texture of the casserole.

How do I customize my Overnight Baked Banana French Toast Casserole?

You can add ingredients such as nuts, chocolate chips, or other fruits like blueberries to enhance the flavor and texture of the dish.

Victor Layne