Banana Foster French Toast

Instructions

1. 1

   In a shallow bowl, whisk together 3 large eggs, ½ cup whole milk, 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, and ½ teaspoon cinnamon until well combined. Dip 8 thick slices of slightly stale brioche into the mixture for 30 seconds on each side, ensuring they are well coated.

2. 2

   Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the soaked brioche slices for 3–4 minutes per side until they are deeply golden brown. Keep the cooked French toast warm in a 200°F (93°C) oven while you prepare the sauce.

3. 3

   For the Foster sauce, melt 4 tablespoons unsalted butter in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add ½ cup packed brown sugar and ½ teaspoon cinnamon; stir until dissolved and bubbling, about 2 minutes.

4. 4

   Place 4 halved ripe bananas cut-side down in the sauce and cook for 2 minutes until lightly caramelized. Remove the pan from heat and carefully pour in ¼ cup dark rum (it may flame — stand back and let it burn off naturally for about 30 seconds, or cover with a lid to extinguish).

5. 5

   Return the pan to heat and swirl the sauce for 1 minute until it thickens and becomes glossy. Plate the French toast and spoon the caramelized bananas and sauce over the top. Serve immediately with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.