Name: Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 10 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 loaf brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 8 cups); 6 large eggs; 1½ cups milk or half-and-half; ½ cup heavy cream; ½ cup brown sugar; 2 tablespoons maple syrup; 1 teaspoon vanilla extract; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; ¼ teaspoon nutmeg; ¼ teaspoon salt; ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts; 2 tablespoons butter, melted; 2 tablespoons brown sugar

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There is something utterly magical about waking up to a warm, comforting dish that practically makes itself while you sleep. This Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe is exactly that kind of treat—soft and custardy bread cubes infused with cozy spices, slowly cooked to perfection in your crockpot, creating a lightly crisped edge you’ll adore. Whether you’re gearing up for a holiday feast, an easy weekend brunch, or simply want to impress guests without breaking a sweat, this recipe delivers on flavor and convenience. Trust me, once you try it, this French toast casserole will be your go-to breakfast for effortless mornings that feel like a special occasion.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A tall black slow cooker shows six steps of making a dessert. In the first step, the slow cooker is filled with a layer of milk and whole eggs, sprinkled with a mound of brown cinnamon powder in the middle. Step two shows the milk and eggs mixed, turning a light brown color with small yellowish bubbles on the surface. In step three, square pieces of white bread are evenly spread over the liquid, covering the base. Step four adds a thin layer of chopped nuts, scattered all over the bread pieces, lightly soaking in the mix. Step five shows a thick layer of light brown sugar sprinkled evenly on top of the nuts and bread. In the final step, small chunks of pale butter are placed randomly on top of the brown sugar layer. The slow cooker is set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

With just a handful of simple ingredients, this dish comes together beautifully, each component playing an essential role in building the classic French toast flavor and luscious texture. From the rich brioche or challah giving it that buttery softness, to warm cinnamon and nutmeg sprinkling in delightful notes, these ingredients strike the perfect balance to make your crockpot creation shine.

Brioche or challah bread, cubed (about 8 cups): Choose slightly stale bread for better custard absorption and a tender texture.
6 large eggs: The crucial base for that creamy, custardy richness you expect in French toast casserole.
1½ cups milk or half-and-half: Adds creaminess to keep the casserole moist without being heavy.
½ cup heavy cream: For that extra velvety, indulgent custard consistency.
½ cup brown sugar: Brings gentle sweetness and deep caramel notes.
2 tablespoons maple syrup: Infuses natural sweetness with that unmistakable maple aroma.
1 teaspoon vanilla extract: Enhances all the flavors, adding a warm, fragrant backbone.
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon: The spice that makes this French toast feel like a cozy hug.
¼ teaspoon nutmeg: Adds subtle earthy warmth and complexity.
¼ teaspoon salt: Balances the sweetness and intensifies all the other flavors.

How to Make Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Crockpot and Bread

Begin by greasing a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier. Then, evenly layer your cubed brioche or challah bread across the bottom. Using slightly stale bread is key here; it soaks up the custard much better without turning to mush while cooking.

Step 2: Whisk the Custard Mixture

In a large bowl, whisk together your eggs, milk or half-and-half, heavy cream, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until blended smoothly. This mixture is the soul of your Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe—rich, flavorful, and perfectly spiced.

Step 3: Combine and Press

Pour the prepared custard evenly over the bread cubes in the crockpot. Gently press the bread down with a spatula or your hands so that it fully absorbs the custard. This step ensures every bite is luscious and custardy, not dry or under-soaked.

Step 4: Add the Optional Topping

If you’re feeling a little fancy and want that irresistible crunch factor, mix together chopped pecans or walnuts, melted butter, and brown sugar, then sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of your bread and custard. This creates a delightful textural contrast after slow cooking.

Step 5: Cook Low and Slow

Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the center is set and the edges are delicately crisp. Resist the urge to peek too often—slow and steady wins the race here! Once done, turn off the heat and let the casserole rest for about 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to settle and make slicing easier.

How to Serve Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe

Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

The magic of this Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe really shines with just a few well-chosen finishing touches. Dust it lightly with powdered sugar for a snowy, sweet look or drizzle pure maple syrup to amp up the natural sweetness. Fresh berries or sliced bananas add a bright pop of color and freshness that contrast perfectly with the rich custardy base.

Side Dishes

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a simple side of crispy bacon or golden breakfast sausages for savory balance. For a lighter twist, fresh fruit salad or Greek yogurt with honey create an inviting, well-rounded brunch experience without overwhelming the star dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve individual portions in ramekins right from the crockpot, garnished with a sprig of fresh mint. Or set up a toppings bar with nuts, whipped cream, chocolate chips, and assorted syrups so everyone can customize their slice. This interactive serving idea turns any brunch into a fun gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Crockpot French Toast Casserole keeps beautifully refrigerated for up to four days in an airtight container. The flavors often deepen overnight, making it a perfect next-day breakfast that feels just as indulgent.

Freezing

To enjoy this casserole later, you can freeze portions individually wrapped or the entire cooked dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge for best results, then reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the microwave for a quick option, or use an air fryer to revive that coveted crispy edge and warm the custard through without drying it out. A low oven bake at 325°F also works beautifully, wrapped loosely in foil to maintain moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Absolutely! While brioche or challah are preferred for their rich texture, you can substitute with Texas toast, French bread, or even cinnamon raisin bread. Just try to use slightly stale bread to prevent sogginess.

Do I need to soak the bread overnight?

This recipe doesn’t require overnight soaking since the slow cooker environment allows the bread to absorb the custard gradually during cooking. However, assembling it the night before and refrigerating can help flavors meld nicely.

How do I know when the casserole is done?

The casserole is ready when the center is set and doesn’t jiggle when you gently shake the crockpot. A toothpick inserted in the middle should come out clean or with just a custardy coating.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute the milk, cream, and butter with your favorite dairy-free alternatives like almond or oat milk and coconut cream. The texture might be a little different, but the flavor will remain delicious.

Is the topping necessary?

The nutty brown sugar topping is totally optional but highly recommended for added texture and flavor. If you prefer a simpler casserole, it’s perfectly fine to skip it and enjoy the classic custardy delight.

Final Thoughts

There is no easier way to elevate your breakfast game than with this incredibly comforting, effortless Crockpot French Toast Casserole Recipe. From the tender custard-soaked bread cubes to the heavenly aroma wafting from your slow cooker, it’s a dish that turns ordinary mornings into something truly memorable. Give it a try—you’ll soon find this recipe becomes a beloved staple in your kitchen, perfect for lazy weekends, holidays, or any time you crave a warm hug in breakfast form.

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