Banana Bread Breakfast Casserole: 5 Reasons to Love It

Banana bread breakfast casserole transforms ordinary ingredients into an extraordinary morning treat that blurs the line between breakfast and dessert. This comforting dish combines the familiar flavors of banana bread with the custardy texture of bread pudding for a sweet start to your day.

Perfect for using up brown bananas and day-old bread, this simple casserole requires minimal preparation but delivers maximum satisfaction. The warm aroma of cinnamon-spiced bananas will fill your kitchen as it bakes, creating an inviting atmosphere that makes even the earliest mornings feel special. Ideal for holiday gatherings, weekend brunches, or anytime you need a little sweetness to start your day right.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Creates a stress-free breakfast option that can be prepared ahead and baked when needed
• Offers a delicious solution for using overripe bananas and leftover bread that might otherwise go to waste
• Provides a versatile dish that works equally well as a decadent breakfast or comforting dessert

I developed this recipe during a particularly chaotic holiday season when I needed something special for breakfast that wouldn’t keep me tied to the kitchen. The first time I served it to overnight guests, they requested the recipe before they’d even finished their first serving.

My nephew, who typically avoids anything resembling “bread pudding,” asked for seconds and then inquired if we could have it again the next morning. Now it’s become my go-to dish for special breakfast occasions, particularly when I need something that can be prepped the night before and simply popped into the oven in the morning.

Simple Ingredients

• Day-old bread (6 cups cubed): Creates the perfect foundation with enough structure to absorb the custard without becoming mushy
• Overripe bananas (3 medium): Provide natural sweetness and that distinctive banana bread flavor we all love
• Evaporated milk (1 can, 12 oz): Contributes richness and creaminess without thinning the custard mixture
• Brown sugar (½ cup): Adds depth with its molasses notes that complement the bananas perfectly
• Eggs (4 large): Bind everything together while creating that perfect custardy texture

Preparation Steps

Initial Setup Preheat your oven to 350°F and lightly grease a 9×9 inch baking dish with cooking spray.

Tear or cut bread into approximately 1-inch cubes and place in a large mixing bowl.

Slice the bananas into ½-inch thick rounds and add to the bowl with the bread pieces.

Custard Creation In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs until slightly frothy for a lighter texture.

Add evaporated milk, water, brown sugar, vanilla, and a pinch of cinnamon, whisking until well combined.

The sugar should be completely dissolved with no granules remaining at the bottom.

Assembly Process Pour the egg mixture over the bread and bananas in the large bowl.

Gently toss everything together, ensuring each piece of bread is coated with the custard.

Allow the mixture to sit for 5-10 minutes so the bread can absorb some of the liquid.

Baking Method Transfer the soaked bread mixture to your prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.

Pour any remaining liquid from the bowl over the top to ensure maximum moisture.

Bake uncovered for 45-55 minutes until the top is golden brown and the center is set but still moist.

Serving Suggestions Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving to let it set slightly.

Drizzle with maple syrup or add a dollop of vanilla yogurt for extra indulgence.

Cut into squares and serve warm for the most comforting experience.

You Must Know

• The more overripe your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your casserole will be
• Different types of bread create different textures – brioche yields a richer result, while Italian bread offers more structure
• This casserole reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or holiday planning

I particularly treasure how this recipe has adapted alongside our family’s changing needs. My grandmother always emphasized that the best recipes are those that can be prepared without stress, allowing more time for conversation around the table.

When my daughter developed an interest in cooking, this was one of the first recipes she mastered independently. The forgiving nature of the preparation built her confidence, while the impressive results gave her a sense of accomplishment. Now it’s become her signature contribution to family brunches, creating a new generation of memories around this simple but special dish.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile casserole pairs beautifully with various accompaniments to create a complete breakfast experience.

Serve alongside fresh fruit for a bright contrast to the rich, warm casserole.

Add crispy bacon or breakfast sausage for a sweet and savory combination that satisfies all cravings.

Include a simple yogurt parfait bar with various toppings for a well-rounded breakfast spread.

For special occasions, accompany with mimosas or coffee with flavored creamers for a festive touch.

Make-Ahead Options

Prepare this casserole in advance to simplify your morning routine without sacrificing a special breakfast.

Assemble the entire casserole the night before and refrigerate, covered, for up to 24 hours before baking.

Allow the refrigerated casserole to sit at room temperature for 30 minutes while the oven preheats.

Add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time if cooking directly from the refrigerator.

Prepare and freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months, thawing overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Storage Solutions

Refrigerate leftover casserole in an airtight container where it will maintain excellent quality for up to 4 days.

Reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds or until warmed through.

For larger portions, cover with foil and warm in a 325°F oven for 15-20 minutes until heated throughout.

If freezing after baking, allow to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil before freezing.

Thaw frozen leftovers overnight in the refrigerator for best texture when reheating.

Recipe Variations

• For extra crunch and nutrition, add ½ cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the bread mixture
• Create a tropical version by adding ⅓ cup shredded coconut and ½ cup diced pineapple
• Incorporate chocolate chips for an even more dessert-like breakfast treat that children especially love

My journey with this banana bread breakfast casserole began from practicality—using up ingredients that might otherwise go to waste—but evolved into something that genuinely brings joy to our family table. There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming humble leftovers into a dish that feels special enough for celebrations.

What I treasure most about this recipe is how it bridges generations and creates moments of connection. The simplicity of preparation means children can help mix and assemble, learning kitchen skills without frustration. Meanwhile, the nostalgic flavors remind older family members of traditional banana bread while presenting it in a fresh, modern format.

The versatility of this casserole—equally welcome at a casual weekend breakfast or a holiday brunch—makes it a true kitchen workhorse that I return to season after season. Its reliability and consistent popularity have earned it a permanent place in our family cookbook, ready to comfort and nourish for years to come.

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