Imagine waking up to a breakfast so extraordinary, it transforms your ordinary morning into a culinary adventure! This isn't just another breakfast recipe – it's a symphony of flavors that combines the creamy richness of cheesecake, the tropical sweetness of caramelized bananas, and the luxurious texture of coconut-infused French toast. Prepare to embark on a mouthwatering journey that will make your taste buds dance and your family beg for seconds!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 8 slices of bread
- 4 ripe bananas, sliced
- 2 cups cream cheese, softened
- 1 cup shredded coconut
- 4 eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 2 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- Butter for greasing
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9x13-inch baking dish with butter to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened cream cheese and brown sugar. Use a hand mixer or a whisk to blend until the mixture is smooth and creamy.
- Add the eggs, milk, and vanilla extract to the cream cheese mixture. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated and the mixture is smooth.
- In a separate bowl, combine the sliced bananas and shredded coconut. Gently toss them together to ensure the bananas are evenly coated with coconut.
- Take the slices of bread and cut them into cubes or triangles, depending on your preference. Layer half of the bread pieces in the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Spread the banana and coconut mixture evenly over the layer of bread in the baking dish.
- Add the remaining bread pieces on top of the banana and coconut layer, pressing down gently to compact the layers.
- Pour the cream cheese and egg mixture evenly over the top layer of bread, ensuring that all pieces are soaked. Use a spatula to gently push down any bread pieces that are floating on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
- Once the 15 minutes are up, remove the foil and place the casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
- After 30 minutes, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.
- Once baked, remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving.
- Slice into squares and serve warm. Optionally, top with additional sliced bananas, whipped cream, or a drizzle of maple syrup for extra sweetness.
Tips
- Choose ripe bananas for maximum flavor and natural sweetness. The riper they are, the more caramelized and rich they'll become.
- Allow your cream cheese to soften at room temperature for at least 30 minutes before mixing. This ensures a smooth, lump-free mixture.
- For extra indulgence, use day-old bread or brioche – they absorb the cream cheese mixture better and create a more luxurious texture.
- Don't skip the 15-minute resting period before baking. This allows the bread to fully absorb the liquid, creating a custardy, consistent texture.
- For a golden, crispy top, make sure to remove the foil in the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Serve immediately for the best texture – the casserole is most delicious when it's still warm and slightly puffy.
- Get creative with toppings! Try a drizzle of caramel sauce, a sprinkle of toasted coconut, or a dollop of whipped cream for extra decadence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 20g
Cholesterol: 180mg
