Healthy Banana French Toast

French Toast with Banana

This recipe is the answer if you have overripe bananas, stale bread, or are in need of a quick, easy, and nutritious breakfast for the entire family to enjoy. For us, it’s all of the above come the weekend, which is great! I can get a delicious meal ready in under 10 minutes! And if I happen to have extra time, I will bust out our fancier plates, set up a toppings bar with fresh fruits and condiments, and even cut the French toast into cute shapes. I have a feeling this is going to become one of your go-to favorite breakfast recipes! Easy Breakfast Ideas for Babies or Toddlers

Ingredients

I am highlighting just the ones that need further explanation. The complete list is in the recipe card below.

Banana – The riper the better for the natural sweetness Bread slices – you can use any kind! Brioche bread, challah, French bread, Texas toast, sandwich bread…they will all work Peanut butter – This is optional but highly recommended! It’s such an easy way to add protein and healthy fats while elevating flavor. Milk – I recommend using whole milk for extra richness and fat, which is especially important for babies and toddlers.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Substitutions and Variations

Substitute peanut butter with any nut butter (like almond butter) or seed butter, if there is an allergy. Or you can leave it out completely. No banana? you can use up to 1 cup of applesauce. You can also try with other fruits. Just like this strawberry baked oatmeal, blend the fruit with the rest of the ingredients. Dairy-free? Any non-dairy milk will work. Add 1 tablespoon of hemp seeds to the batter for an additional nutrition boost. Add pumpkin pie spice to invite warm, cozy flavors.

Tips for Success

Blend all the ingredients using a food processor or blender if you prefer a completely smooth batter. I don’t mind a slightly lumpy mixture because it means less dishes for me and the toast still turns out great! Use a shallow bowl or dish for the egg mixture so that you can dip the bread easily. Do not soak the bread for too long (10 seconds or so per side) as it will become soggy, especially if using regular sandwich bread. Lower the heat if the toast gets too dark before the bread cooks.

Equipment

In case you are wondering what pan I am using here, it’s this carbon steel skillet. It heats quickly and evenly, is lighter, and for me less intimidating to take care of than cast iron (granted I probably didn’t give it a proper chance). I try to stay away from non-stick as much as possible and only use it when making scrambled eggs, vegetable omelette and eggy bread. So far I’m having fun learning about my new soon-to-be workhorse. It retains heat really well, and I especially love to use it for searing steaks. With constant use, the pan will develop a nonstick patina (which will supposedly have eggs sliding slickly) and turn mostly black. We are getting there!

Serving Suggestions

My kids have no problem popping these banana French toast into their mouths as is. But if you want to invite more fun and flavor, here are some toppings to try:

Maple syrup or honey (not for under 1) Date syrup Fresh fruit – sliced bananas (if you want to take it over the top, add caramelized banana!), blueberries, strawberries, mangoes Jam Homemade unsweetened applesauce Yogurt or ricotta

For Babies and toddlers

You can slice this super easy banana French toast into strips or bite-sized pieces depending on their age. These cookie cutters have magical powers! Have a picky eater? Cut the French toast into fun shapes and be prepared to be amazed. If that still doesn’t work, this pediatric registered dietitian is here to help! Simply sign up below. These are also great for school lunch boxes! They taste great cold so there’s no need to worry about keeping them warm. I like to spread a thin layer of jam and cream cheese in between slices. And just like that you have a peanut butter (or seed butter) banana jelly sandwich! Master List of Healthy Lunch Box Ideas

Storage

This recipe will make 3 French toast. If you have any leftovers, transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. To freeze: You can either freeze the whole bread slice or cut into single portions for your baby or toddler. in the toaster oven or microwave briefly so it doesn’t get soggy. Or enjoy cold!