Description
This Crockpot French Toast Casserole is a soft, custardy breakfast dish with lightly crisp edges, made with cinnamon-spiced brioche or challah bread. Cooked slowly in the crockpot, it’s perfect for stress-free mornings, holidays, or brunches, offering a comforting and easy-to-prepare meal.
Ingredients
Main 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
Topping (Optional)
- ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons butter, melted
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Crockpot: Grease a 6-quart slow cooker with nonstick spray or butter to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Add Bread: Spread the cubed brioche or challah bread evenly throughout the crockpot base.
- Mix Custard: In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until fully combined.
- Combine Bread and Custard: Pour the egg mixture evenly over the cubed bread, then gently press the bread down to allow it to soak up the custard mixture thoroughly.
- Add Topping: If using, mix together the chopped nuts, melted butter, and brown sugar; sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on LOW heat for 4 to 5 hours or on HIGH for 2 to 3 hours, until the center is set and the casserole is cooked through.
- Rest and Serve: Turn off the heat and let the casserole rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and texture to firm up slightly.
Notes
- Slightly stale bread works best, as it absorbs the custard more effectively without becoming too soggy.
- This casserole can be assembled the night before and stored in the refrigerator for a quick morning start.
- Serve with additional maple syrup, powdered sugar, or fresh berries for extra flavor and presentation.
- Leftovers can be kept refrigerated for up to 4 days and reheated in the microwave or air fryer for convenience.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: American
