This Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole is an easy way to enjoy breakfast! It combines bread, eggs, milk, and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a warm, sweet treat.
Your friends and family will love waking up to this yummy dish sitting in the slow cooker. I love tossing it together the night before—breakfast is a breeze!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bread: A sturdy bread, like brioche or challah, works best for this casserole. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try gluten-free bread or even a loaf made from whole grains.
Eggs: Using large eggs is ideal for the right custard texture. You can replace some eggs with flaxseed meal (1 tablespoon of flaxseed mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water = 1 egg) for a vegan option.
Milk & Cream: Whole milk and heavy cream create a rich texture. If you want it lighter, you can use almond milk or oat milk combined with a bit of coconut cream for creaminess.
Suagr: I prefer a mix of granulated and brown sugar for depth of flavor, but you can swap for coconut sugar or maple syrup as natural sweeteners.
Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans add crunch. For nut-free options, try sunflower seeds or leave them out altogether.
Toppings: Sliced bananas or fresh fruit are fantastic. Berries or diced apples also add a nice touch of color and flavor!
How Do I Ensure My Casserole Is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking time is key for a scrumptious casserole. The slow cooker does the heavy lifting, but you’ll want to keep an eye on it. Here are some tips:
- Start on LOW for 6-8 hours to get a nice, moist result.
- If you’re in a hurry, cooking on HIGH for 3-4 hours works, but check for doneness earlier.
- Look for a golden top and firm center. The casserole should no longer jiggle when you gently shake the slow cooker.
- Let it sit for 10 minutes after cooking to set up a bit more before serving.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a delicious breakfast that everyone will love!
Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Casserole:
- 1 loaf of bread (preferably a sturdy bread like brioche or challah), cut into 1-inch cubes (about 6-8 cups)
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
- Pinch of salt
- 1/2 to 3/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
For Serving:
- Sliced bananas or fresh fruit (optional)
- Butter or non-stick spray (for greasing the slow cooker)
- Maple syrup for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole takes just about 15 minutes to prep, and then you’ll let it cook for 6 to 8 hours on LOW, or 3 to 4 hours on HIGH in the slow cooker. It’s perfect for making the night before and waking up to a delicious breakfast!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Slow Cooker
Start by greasing the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick spray to prevent sticking. This will make serving a lot easier later!
2. Layer the Bread
Place the cubed bread evenly in the slow cooker. Make sure the bread is spread out nicely so that every piece gets plenty of that sweet custard mixture!
3. Mix the Custard
In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg (if using), and a pinch of salt until everything is well combined. You want it to be smooth and creamy!
4. Combine It All
Pour the egg mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the slow cooker. Gently press down to help the bread soak up all that delicious custard mixture—you’ll want every bit of bread to be coated!
5. Add the Nuts
If you’re using nuts, sprinkle the chopped walnuts or pecans over the top of the bread mixture for a bit of crunch. This step is optional but adds a yummy texture!
6. Set to Cook
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 to 8 hours or on HIGH for 3 to 4 hours. The casserole should be set and golden brown on top. It’s like the slow cooker gives it a nice hug!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
When it’s done cooking, scoop out portions onto plates. Add sliced bananas or any fresh fruit you like on top for some extra deliciousness. Don’t forget to drizzle with warm maple syrup before diving in!
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your warm, comforting Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole—a perfect breakfast for busy mornings or lazy weekends!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. Just cover it tightly after assembling. In the morning, you can start cooking it in the slow cooker right away—there’s no need to let it come to room temperature.
Can I Use Different Types of Bread?
Yes, feel free to experiment! Sturdy brioche, challah, or even baguette work wonderfully. You could also use whole grain or gluten-free bread, but ensure it’s thick enough to hold its shape when soaked.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm individual servings in the microwave or gently in the oven until heated through. If it seems dry, a splash of milk or cream can help moisten it.
Can I Substitute the Eggs For a Vegan Option?
Yes! You can replace eggs with a flaxseed meal mixture—1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal mixed with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg. Just remember, the texture may differ slightly but it will still taste great!
