Banana Pistachio French Toast with Caramel Sauce

Banana Pistachio French Toast with Caramel Sauce

Bread:

1  C. sugar

1/2  C. shortening

2 eggs

1 T. milk

2  C. flour

1 t. baking soda

1/4 t. salt

1  C. mashed banana

1  C. natural California pistachios, coarsely chopped

Beat sugar with shortening, eggs and milk until smooth. Mix flour, baking soda and salt. Mix into first mixture. Fold in bananas and add 3/4 cup pistachios. Turn into greased 8 1/2 x 4 1/2 inch loaf pan. Sprinkle remaining pistachios on top. Bake at 350° F., for 1 hour or until a pick comes out dry. Cover bread loosely with foil when it gets to desired color, and continue baking.

French Toast:

Cut 3/4-inch thick slices of pistachio banana bread. Dip in well beaten egg until saturated; fry in buttered pan until golden, turning once. Serve with Caramel Sauce.

Caramel Sauce:

Melt 1/2 cup butter or margarine in saucepan. Stir in 1 cup brown sugar (packed) and 1/2 cup whipping cream. Cook over medium heat, stirring until blended then bring to boil and boil gently without stirring for 5 minutes. Makes 1 1/4 cups.

Makes approximately 12 slices.