Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole: A Delicious Breakfast Treat

Are you tired of the same old breakfast routine? Do you want to wake up to the smell of warm cinnamon and maple syrup filling your home? Look no further than this Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole recipe! With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a mouthwatering breakfast dish that will have your family begging for more. Let’s dive into the details of this delightful recipe, including variations and keto-friendly options.

Ingredients:

• 6 eggs
• 4 cups cubed bread
• 2 cups milk
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup cubed unsalted butter, room temperature
• 1 cup chopped pecans

For the Topping:

• 1/2 cup light brown sugar
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

Instructions:

1. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, cinnamon, and maple syrup until well combined.
2. Add the cubed bread to the egg mixture and toss until all the bread is evenly coated. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
3. Grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or non-stick cooking spray to prevent sticking.
4. Pour the bread mixture into the slow cooker, spreading it out evenly.
5. Sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the bread mixture.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together the brown sugar and cinnamon for the topping. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the pecans.
7. Dot the top of the casserole with the cubed butter.
8. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the center is set and the edges are golden brown.
9. Once cooked, serve the French toast casserole warm with additional maple syrup or your favorite toppings.

Cook Notes and Variations:

• Bread Selection: Use any bread you prefer for this recipe. French bread, brioche, or even leftover challah work well. Stale bread is ideal as it will absorb the egg mixture better.
• Customize with Fruit: Add sliced bananas, diced apples, or berries to the bread mixture for a fruity twist.
• Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans if you have allergies or simply prefer a nut-free version.
• Overnight Prep: Prepare the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. In the morning, simply place the slow cooker insert into the base and turn it on.

Keto and Low-Carb Version:

For those following a keto or low-carb lifestyle, here’s how to adapt this recipe:

• Bread Substitute: Replace the cubed bread with almond flour or coconut flour to reduce the carb content.
• Sweetener Swap: Instead of maple syrup and brown sugar, use keto-friendly sweeteners like erythritol or stevia.
• Dairy Options: Use unsweetened almond milk or coconut milk in place of regular milk to lower the carb count further.
• Topping Alternatives: Instead of using butter and pecans, top the casserole with a mixture of shredded coconut and sliced almonds for added crunch.

In conclusion, this Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole is the perfect breakfast option for busy mornings or lazy weekends. With its warm, comforting flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re serving it for a special occasion brunch or a weekday treat, this recipe is guaranteed to impress. So, fire up your slow cooker and treat yourself to a delicious breakfast that will start your day off on the right foot. Enjoy

Benefits of Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole

1. Convenience: One of the biggest advantages of using a slow cooker for this recipe is the convenience factor. Simply mix the ingredients, set it, and forget it! You can prep the casserole the night before and wake up to a delicious breakfast waiting for you.
2. Time-Saving: With busy schedules, finding time to cook a wholesome breakfast can be challenging. With the slow cooker, you can have a hot and satisfying meal ready without spending hours in the kitchen.
3. Versatility: This French toast casserole is incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients, such as different types of bread, fruits, or nuts, to suit your taste preferences.
4. Feeds a Crowd: Whether you’re hosting brunch for a crowd or feeding a hungry family, this recipe is a winner. The large batch size ensures that everyone gets their fill, and you can easily double the recipe if needed.
5. Budget-Friendly: Using simple, pantry-staple ingredients makes this recipe budget-friendly. You can feed your family a delicious and satisfying meal without breaking the bank.

Flavor Variations

• Apple Cinnamon: Add sliced apples and a sprinkle of cinnamon to the bread mixture for a cozy and comforting twist.
• Blueberry Lemon: Fold fresh or frozen blueberries into the bread mixture and add a hint of lemon zest for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Pumpkin Spice: Embrace the flavors of fall by adding canned pumpkin puree and pumpkin pie spice to the egg mixture.
• Chocolate Chip: For a sweet indulgence, sprinkle chocolate chips over the bread mixture before cooking. Serve with a drizzle of chocolate syrup for extra decadence.

Serving Suggestions

• Maple Syrup: Drizzle warm maple syrup over the top of each serving for added sweetness.
• Fresh Fruit: Serve with a side of fresh fruit such as sliced strawberries, bananas, or raspberries for a refreshing contrast.
• Whipped Cream: Top each serving with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra touch of decadence.
• Breakfast Meats: Pair this casserole with crispy bacon or sausage links for a hearty and satisfying meal.

A Breakfast Worth Waking Up For

In conclusion, Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole is a game-changer when it comes to breakfast. Not only is it easy to prepare and incredibly versatile, but it also delivers on flavor and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a leisurely morning at home, this recipe is sure to please. So dust off your slow cooker, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a delicious breakfast that will have everyone asking for seconds.