Caramelized Banana French Toast: A Sweet Morning Indulgence

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 8 slices thick‑cut brioche or challah bread
• 2 large ripe bananas, sliced lengthwise

Banana Caramel

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons dark brown sugar
• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

French Toast Batter

• 4 large eggs
• 1 cup whole milk
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
• ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

Seasonings & Garnish

• Pinch of flaky sea salt (for finishing)
• Powdered sugar, for dusting (optional)
• Fresh mint leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Cooking the French Toast

1. Preheat the skillet. Reduce the heat to medium‑low and add a tablespoon of butter. When the butter foams and begins to brown (about 30 seconds), you’re at the perfect temperature for a golden crust.
2. Cook the soaked slices. Place 2–3 bread slices in the skillet, leaving space between them. Cook for 3–4 minutes until the underside is a deep golden brown, then flip and cook the other side for an additional 2–3 minutes. The interior should be custardy while the exterior stays crisp.
3. Combine with bananas. Once the toast is done, transfer it to a warm plate and immediately top each slice with a caramelized banana half. Spoon any remaining pan sauce over the fruit and toast.
4. Finish with a glaze. Drizzle a thin stream of pure maple syrup over the assembled plates, then sprinkle a pinch of flaky sea salt and a dusting of powdered sugar if desired.