Peanut Butter Banana Overnight French Toast
A comforting and indulgent make-ahead French toast made with brioche, creamy peanut butter, and ripe bananas, perfect for busy mornings or special brunches.
Ingredients
For the French Toast
- 1 loaf 1 loaf (16 ounces) brioche bread, cut into 1/2 inch cubes Fresh brioche is the ultimate choice, but challah or a soft sandwich bread works well.
- 2 medium 2 medium bananas, diced Adds natural sweetness.
- 8 large 8 large eggs, room temperature, beaten Forms the base of your custard.
- 2 cups 2 cups (490 g) whole milk, room temperature Adds creaminess.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup (119 g) heavy whipping cream Provides an ultra-rich taste.
- 1/2 cup 1/2 cup (129 g) creamy peanut butter, melted Nature’s ultimate nutty goodness.
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup (50 g) light brown sugar, packed Provides deep, sweet flavor.
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon vanilla extract All desserts need a hint of vanilla magic.
- 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon cinnamon Adds warmth and depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances all the flavors.
For Topping
- 1/4 cup 1/4 cup (64.5 g) creamy peanut butter, melted More peanut butter is always better!
- 1 ripe 1 ripe banana, sliced For a fresh touch on top.
- Peanuts, chopped Adds a delightful crunch.
- Maple syrup, for serving (optional) For that sweet final touch.
Instructions
Preparation
- Spray a 9x13 inch baking dish with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Add half of the cubed bread and half of the diced bananas in an even layer in the baking dish.
- Top with the second layer of bread and remaining bananas.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, melted peanut butter, brown sugar, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the egg mixture evenly over the layers of bread and bananas. Press down gently to help the bread absorb the liquid.
- Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight.
Baking
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the plastic wrap and let the dish sit at room temperature for 20-30 minutes.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the center is set.
- Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Finishing Touches
- Top with melted peanut butter, fresh banana slices, and chopped peanuts. Serve warm with maple syrup.
Notes
Letting the dish sit at room temperature ensures even cooking. Store leftovers covered in the fridge for up to 3 days.