Ready to transform your leftover banana bread into a fun breakfast treat? These Banana Bread French Toast Sticks are easy to make and packed with flavor. You’ll use simple ingredients—like eggs and milk—and whip up a delicious breakfast or snack in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Deliciously Unique: This recipe transforms leftover banana bread into a delightful breakfast treat, combining the flavors of banana and cinnamon in a fun and easy way.
- Quick and Easy: With a prep time of just 10 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy mornings or a last-minute brunch with friends and family.
- Customizable: You can easily adjust the toppings and sides, from fresh fruits to different syrups, making it suitable for any taste preference.
- Fun for Everyone: These French toast sticks are not only delicious but also fun to eat, making them a hit with both kids and adults alike!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 loaf of leftover banana bread
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)
The main ingredients are simple and fun to gather. You need leftover banana bread, which gives this dish its unique flavor. If you don’t have any, you can bake a new loaf. Eggs and milk add richness to the mix. The vanilla extract and ground cinnamon bring warmth and sweetness. A dash of maple syrup adds a nice touch, but it's optional.
Cooking Essentials
- Butter or oil for frying
- Powdered sugar for dusting (optional)
- Fresh fruit for serving (e.g., berries, banana slices)
You need some butter or oil to fry the sticks. This helps them get golden brown and crispy. Powdered sugar is optional, but it makes the dish look pretty. Fresh fruit adds a healthy and tasty side. Berries or banana slices work well and brighten up the plate.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Banana Bread
To make the banana bread sticks, start by slicing your leftover banana bread. Use a sharp knife for clean cuts. Aim for 1-inch thick slices. These sticks will hold up well when cooked. If you like, you can cut them smaller for bite-sized pieces.
Making the Egg Mixture
Next, whisk together the eggs in a large bowl. Add in 1/2 cup of milk, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. If you want a touch of sweetness, include 1 tablespoon of maple syrup. Whisk until the mixture is smooth and well mixed. The goal is to have a creamy texture that coats the bread nicely.
Cooking the French Toast Sticks
Now it's time to cook! Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little butter or oil and let it melt. This helps the sticks brown evenly. Dip each banana bread stick into your egg mixture. Make sure each piece is coated, but not soaked. Let any extra mix drip off.
Once your skillet is hot, place the soaked sticks in it. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side. Look for a golden brown color and a slightly crispy texture. If your skillet is small, cook in batches. This way, each stick gets the attention it deserves!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your French Toast Sticks
To make the best banana bread French toast sticks, avoid soggy bread. The secret lies in your soaking time. Dip each stick in the egg mixture quickly. You want them coated, but not drenched. Let the excess drip off before cooking. This step helps keep them fluffy inside and crispy outside.
Choose the right cooking method for crispiness. Use a hot skillet with a bit of butter or oil. Medium heat works well. This heat ensures even cooking. Cook each side for about 2-3 minutes. Look for a golden brown color. This gives you that perfect crunch.
Enhancing Flavor
Spices can uplift your banana bread French toast sticks. Ground cinnamon is a must-have. It adds warmth and depth. You might also consider nutmeg for a twist. Just a pinch can make a big difference.
For a fun variation, think about adding chocolate chips. They melt and ooze when cooked. You can mix them into the egg mixture or sprinkle them on top. Fresh fruit like berries or banana slices also pairs well. This adds texture and freshness to your meal.
Pro Tips
- Use Stale Banana Bread: The best banana bread for French toast sticks is slightly stale, as it absorbs the egg mixture without becoming too soggy.
- Customize the Flavor: Feel free to add a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of almond extract to the egg mixture for an extra layer of flavor.
- Perfect Cooking Temperature: Ensure your skillet is at medium heat for even cooking; too high, and the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
- Serve with Dipping Sauces: Enhance the experience by serving with a variety of dipping sauces like chocolate sauce or yogurt for a fun twist.
Variations
Dietary Substitutions
You can make this dish fit different diets. For non-dairy milk, use almond, oat, or coconut milk. These options work well and keep the flavor great. If you want a vegan dish, replace eggs with flaxseed meal or mashed bananas. Mix one tablespoon of flaxseed with three tablespoons of water. Let it sit for five minutes until it thickens. You can also use silken tofu blended until smooth. Both options will help bind your French toast sticks.
Flavor Combinations
Make your banana bread French toast even better with fun flavors. You can add fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or chocolate chips to the egg mixture. These add sweetness and a burst of flavor. Want some crunch? Toss in chopped nuts, like walnuts or pecans, for texture. You can also swap the banana bread for other types of bread. Brioche or challah work well for a rich taste. Whole grain or sourdough can add a nice twist too. The possibilities are endless!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your cooked French toast sticks, let them cool first. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. For best results, separate layers with parchment paper. This step helps to avoid sticking.
When you're ready to eat again, reheating is easy. The best method is to use a skillet. Heat it over medium heat and add a bit of butter. Cook each side for about 2 minutes. This gives them a nice crisp again. You can also use a toaster oven. It warms them through without making them soggy.
Freezing Options
If you want to save some for later, freezing is a good option. First, let the cooked sticks cool completely. Then, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer. This step prevents them from sticking together. Freeze for about 1-2 hours until firm.
After that, transfer the sticks to a freezer bag. Squeeze out as much air as you can. Label the bag with the date. They can stay in the freezer for up to two months.
When you want to eat them, thaw overnight in the fridge. For reheating, use the same skillet method or the toaster oven. You can also microwave them, but this may make them a bit soft. Enjoy your delicious banana bread French toast sticks anytime!
FAQs
How to make Banana Bread French Toast Sticks without eggs?
You can use several egg replacements. Here are some good options:
- Mashed banana: Use 1/4 cup for each egg.
- Applesauce: Replace one egg with 1/4 cup.
- Flaxseed meal: Mix 1 tablespoon with 2.5 tablespoons of water. Let it sit for 5 minutes.
- Chia seeds: Use 1 tablespoon of chia seeds with 3 tablespoons of water, also letting it sit for 5 minutes.
These swaps will still give your French toast sticks a nice texture.
Can I use fresh banana bread for this recipe?
Yes, you can use fresh banana bread. However, there are some key differences. Fresh bread is softer and more moist. It may soak up more egg mixture, making it soggy. Leftover banana bread is firmer and holds its shape better. This helps the sticks stay crispy when cooked. If using fresh bread, make sure to dip it quickly to avoid over-soaking.
What to serve with Banana Bread French Toast Sticks?
I love serving these sticks with a few tasty sides. Here are some ideas:
- Fresh fruit: Berries or banana slices brighten the dish.
- Maple syrup: Drizzle it on top for extra sweetness.
- Yogurt: A side of Greek yogurt adds a creamy contrast.
- Nut butter: Almond or peanut butter gives a nice nutty flavor.
These sides make your meal more fun and delicious!
This blog post showed you how to turn leftover banana bread into tasty French toast sticks. We covered the key ingredients, step-by-step cooking instructions, and helpful tips to make them just right. Remember to experiment with flavors and toppings to create your perfect dish. Enjoy your delicious treat, whether for breakfast or a snack. You've got the tools to make a fun and easy dish that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
