Walnut Banana Bread French Toast

{Walnut Banana Bread French Toast}

Breakfast for the morning when you need something exceptionally special.

{recipe}

Adapted from How Sweet It Is

Basic Banana Bread

makes one [9x5) loaf 

2 1/2 cups flour

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

2/3 cup brown sugar

1 large egg

2 teaspoons vanilla extract

4 large bananas, mashed (about 1 1/2 cups)

1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

1/4 cup milk

chocolate chips, walnuts (optional)

{directions}

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a loaf pan liberally with non-stick spray or butter. In a bowl, mix together dry ingredients. In a separate bowl, whisk together the egg and sugar, then add vanilla, bananas, milk and butter. Pour batter into pan and sprinkle with bittersweet chocolate chips or walnuts.

Bake for 50-55 minutes, or until center is set and a toothpick comes out clean. Let cool completely.

{to make the French Toast}

[About half a loaf)

3 large eggs

1/2 cup almond milk, 2 percent milk or heavy cream

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

1 cup walnuts, crushed

Butter for the griddle

{directions}

Slice banana bread into thick pieces. In a bowl, whisk to combine eggs, vanilla, cinnamon and milk. Place crushed walnuts in a shallow bowl. Heat a griddle or large skillet over medium heat (350 degrees) and brush with butter.  Dip each slice into the egg mixture and coat completely, then press into crushed walnuts until coated. then place on the griddle surface. Cook until the walnuts begin browning and crisping and the bread is golden, about 2 minutes per side.

Serve with maple syrup, and if it's a really special day, sliced bananas, whipped cream and chocolate syrup. For dessert, add a scoop of ice cream. A perfect treat for when grabbing a piece of toast and a banana just isn't going to cut it. Enjoy... she did. Who can resist that face?