Healthy Banana French Toast

This easy and healthy banana French toast is made with simple ingredients you probably have on hand at all times and only takes 10 minutes to make. Take any bread, soak in the banana egg mixture, and cook to golden brown perfection.

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. Here are the best healthy store-bought breads to try!
• 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.

Best weight gain foods for babies and toddlers

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Mash your banana in a baking dish. Try to get it as smooth as you can but it’s ok to have some lumps
2. Whisk together the milk, eggs, cinnamon, vanilla, and peanut butter if using.
3. Dip bread into the mixture to coat it on both sides.
4. Heat skillet or griddle and melt butter under medium-low to medium heat. Once it is bubbly, add the soaked bread and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown. I told you it’s a super simple recipe!

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!

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Did you make this recipe? Leave a rating below and let me know how you liked the recipe! Your feedback means so much to me!