If you adore the idea of combining sweet, tropical flavors with a classic breakfast favorite, then the Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast Recipe is about to become your new obsession. This decadent dish takes moist, flavorful banana bread slices, transforms them into crispy waffles, and crowns them with luscious caramelized bananas and toasted coconut for an indulgent treat packed with texture and warmth. Whether you’re planning a special weekend brunch or just feel like treating yourself, this recipe offers the perfect balance of sweet, buttery, and toasty notes that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast Recipe lies in its simple ingredients that come together to create an extraordinary taste experience. Each component plays a vital role, from the rich banana bread to the perfectly spiced egg mixture and the luscious caramelized banana topping.
- 4 slices banana bread (preferably 1-day-old): Slightly stale bread absorbs the egg mixture beautifully without falling apart.
- 2 large eggs: Provide structure and richness to the soak that makes your waffles tender yet crisp.
- 1/3 cup milk (or coconut milk): Adds moisture and, with coconut milk, an extra tropical flair.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Intensifies the sweet aroma and complements the banana flavor perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon: Adds a warm spice note that elevates the entire dish.
- Pinch of salt: Balances sweetness and enhances all the other flavors.
- Non-stick spray or butter for greasing the waffle iron: Ensures easy waffle removal and a golden crust.
- 2 ripe but firm bananas, sliced: Perfect for caramelizing into a sweet, soft topping.
- 2 tablespoons butter: Used to create rich caramelized banana goodness.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar: Caramelizes beautifully for a deep, sweet sauce.
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (toasted): Adds crunch and a toasty tropical flavor.
- Maple syrup or caramel sauce (for drizzling): Brings extra sweetness and one more layer of indulgence.
- Whipped cream (optional): Light and airy finish to elevate your breakfast game.
How to Make Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Waffle Iron and Egg Mixture
Start by preheating your waffle iron. You want it nice and hot to create that crisp outer layer on your banana bread waffles. While it heats up, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt in a shallow bowl. This egg mixture is key to soaking your banana bread slices to turn them into that perfectly flavored French toast waffle base.
Step 2: Dip Banana Bread and Cook Waffles
Take each slice of banana bread and dip it into the egg mixture, letting it soak for just a few seconds per side so it’s moist but not soggy. Then, place one slice into the greased waffle iron and cook until golden brown and slightly crisp, about 3 to 5 minutes depending on your iron. These waffles become so crispy on the outside while staying soft and flavorful inside — totally irresistible!
Step 3: Toast the Coconut
While your waffles are cooking, toast the shredded coconut in a dry skillet over medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid burning, and wait until it becomes a beautiful golden brown, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes. The toasty coconut adds such a wonderful textural contrast and a delicious tropical note.
Step 4: Caramelize the Bananas
Next, in the same skillet used for the coconut, melt the butter and brown sugar over medium heat. Add the sliced bananas and cook for 2 to 3 minutes on each side. You want the bananas to soften and develop a shiny, golden caramel coating that’s just begging to be spooned over your waffles.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Now the fun part! Plate your banana bread waffles, pile on those luscious caramelized bananas, sprinkle generously with toasted coconut, and drizzle with maple syrup or caramel sauce. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a dollop of whipped cream on top makes everything even more dreamy.
How to Serve Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast Recipe
Garnishes
For added flair and flavor, top your waffles with a generous handful of toasted coconut flakes for crunch and a pop of tropical goodness. Fresh banana slices or a light dusting of powdered sugar also make lovely embellishments that bring out the sweetness without overpowering the main flavors.
Side Dishes
Consider pairing this dish with a refreshing fruit salad or a few crispy bacon strips for a salty contrast. A simple side of yogurt or a citrusy compote can lighten up the plate and offer a tangy compliment to the deep caramel and coconut tones.
Creative Ways to Present
Try stacking the banana bread waffles layered with caramelized bananas and whipped cream in between for a dramatic tower that’s perfect for brunch guests. You can also serve the waffles with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream for a breakfast-dessert fusion that feels like a tropical vacation on a plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers of the Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps keep the waffles from drying out while preserving the caramelized bananas’ freshness.
Freezing
To enjoy this treat later, let the cooked waffles cool completely and then freeze them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag and keep for up to 1 month. Freezing is a great way to have this indulgence ready any time without sacrificing quality.
Reheating
When you’re ready to reheat, pop the waffles into a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for about 5 to 7 minutes to regain their crispness. Warm the caramelized bananas gently on the stove or in the microwave to avoid making them mushy, then assemble with toasted coconut and your favorite drizzle before serving.
FAQs
Can I use homemade banana bread for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade banana bread is perfect for this recipe, especially if it’s a day or two old so it holds up nicely when dipped and cooked in the waffle iron.
What if I don’t have a waffle iron?
You can cook the soaked banana bread slices in a skillet like traditional French toast. Cook on medium heat until golden and crisp on both sides, then proceed with toppings as usual.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, substitute eggs with a flax or chia egg, use coconut milk, vegan butter, and ensure your banana bread is vegan-friendly. The caramelized bananas and toasted coconut will still create that luscious flavor.
What type of banana bread is best for this recipe?
Choose a dense and sturdy banana bread with a tight crumb. It’s best if it’s a day old so it won’t fall apart when dipped in the egg mixture and cooked as waffles.
How do I get the coconut perfectly toasted?
Use a dry skillet over medium heat and stir the shredded coconut constantly. Watch closely as it can go from golden brown to burnt quickly, usually in about 2 to 3 minutes.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast Recipe that turns an ordinary morning into a memorable feast. With the delightful combination of crispy banana bread waffles, the rich sweetness of caramelized bananas, and the tropical crunch of toasted coconut, this dish has it all. I can’t wait for you to try it and share it with your loved ones, because breakfast should always feel this special.
Print
Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Caramelized Coconut Banana Bread Waffle French Toast offers a delightful twist on classic French toast by turning banana bread slices into crispy waffles topped with caramelized bananas and toasted coconut. This tropical-inspired breakfast combines the sweetness of banana bread with rich caramel flavors and a hint of coconut, perfect for indulgent brunches or special mornings.
Ingredients
For the Banana Bread Waffle French Toast:
- 4 slices banana bread (preferably 1-day-old)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup milk (or coconut milk)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- Pinch of salt
- Non-stick spray or butter for greasing the waffle iron
For the Caramelized Bananas:
- 2 ripe but firm bananas (sliced)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
For the Topping:
- 1/4 cup shredded coconut (toasted)
- Maple syrup or caramel sauce (for drizzling)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat and prepare waffle iron: Preheat your waffle iron and lightly grease it with non-stick spray or butter to prevent sticking.
- Mix egg soak: In a shallow bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
- Dip banana bread slices: Briefly dip each slice of banana bread into the egg mixture, making sure it soaks on both sides to absorb the flavors without becoming too soggy.
- Cook waffles: Place one soaked slice at a time into the preheated waffle iron. Cook for about 3–5 minutes, or until the waffle is golden brown and slightly crisp. Remove and keep warm while cooking the remaining slices.
- Toast shredded coconut: While waffles are cooking, heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Add the shredded coconut and toast it, stirring frequently, until golden and fragrant, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Caramelize bananas: In the same skillet, melt butter and brown sugar together over medium heat. Add the banana slices and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, until they are caramelized and golden brown. Remove from heat.
- Assemble and serve: Arrange the banana bread waffles on serving plates. Top each with caramelized bananas, sprinkle with toasted coconut, and drizzle with maple syrup or caramel sauce. Optionally, add a dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.
Notes
- Use thick, sturdy banana bread slices to prevent breakage during dipping and cooking.
- For enhanced coconut flavor, substitute regular milk with canned coconut milk in the egg mixture.
- All components can be prepared ahead of time; reheat waffles in a toaster oven before serving to maintain crispiness.
