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Crispy Brioche French Toast Recipe with Easy Caramelized Bananas

crispy brioche french toast - featured image

A quick and easy French toast recipe featuring thick slices of brioche soaked in a rich egg mixture, cooked to crispy perfection, and topped with sweet, buttery caramelized bananas.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 thick slices brioche bread (about 1-inch thick), day-old or slightly stale
  • 3 large eggs, room temperature
  • 1 cup (240 ml) whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
  • Pinch of salt
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided
  • 2 ripe bananas, sliced diagonally
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (light or dark)
  • Maple syrup or honey for serving (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk or half-and-half, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt until smooth and lightly frothy (about 2 minutes).
  2. Dip each brioche slice into the egg mixture, soaking about 20 seconds per side, ensuring the bread is moist but not falling apart. Set aside on a plate.
  3. Heat a heavy skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Add 1 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter and let it melt, coating the pan evenly.
  4. Place soaked brioche slices in the skillet and cook 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy with deep golden color and slightly crisp edges.
  5. While the last slices cook, wipe the skillet clean or use a separate sauté pan. Add remaining 1 1/2 tablespoons butter and melt over medium heat.
  6. Add banana slices and sprinkle brown sugar evenly over them. Cook about 2 minutes per side until bananas are soft, golden, and shiny with caramel sauce.
  7. Stack the crispy brioche French toast on plates, spoon warm caramelized bananas over the top, and drizzle with maple syrup or honey if desired.

Notes

Use day-old or slightly stale brioche for better soaking without sogginess. Cook on medium heat to avoid burning and ensure a crispy crust. Keep cooked French toast warm in a 200°F oven without covering to maintain crispness. For dairy-free, substitute milk and butter with plant-based alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: French toast, brioche, caramelized bananas, breakfast, brunch, easy recipe, quick breakfast, crispy French toast