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Crockpot French Toast Casserole

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This Crockpot French Toast Casserole is the kind of recipe you will want to save for holidays, brunch gatherings, or cozy weekends at home. It takes the classic flavors of French toast, soft brioche, warm cinnamon, rich vanilla, and sweet maple, and transforms them into a hands-off slow cooker breakfast that feels effortless but still indulgent.

Bread pudding topped with blueberries in a slow cooker, with a striped towel and bowl of blueberries nearby.

The slow cooker does the work while your house fills with the smell of cinnamon and vanilla. By the time it's ready, you've got a perfectly soft and custardy center with golden, slightly crisp edges. It's warm, comforting, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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The Ingredients

Two slices of bread, six brown eggs in a bowl, a jar of milk, a bowl of cinnamon, a small cup of vanilla extract, and a bowl of jam on a white surface.
  • Brioche bread: This rich, buttery bread creates the best flavor and texture. Challah or Texas toast can also be used.
  • Milk: Whole milk keeps the custard creamy, but you can substitute 2% or even half-and-half.
  • Cinnamon: Adjust to taste - 2 teaspoons gives a warm, classic flavor.
  • Maple syrup: Pure maple syrup is key for that rich, caramel-like sweetness. Pancake syrup can be used in a pinch, but it won't have the same depth.

For quantities see recipe card below

Step-by-Step Instructions for the Crockpot French Toast Casserole

  1. Prepare the slow cooker: Grease the inside of the crock with butter or cooking spray. For easier cleanup, you can also line it with parchment paper.
  2. Cube the bread: Cut the brioche into 1-2 inch cubes. Day-old bread works best because it soaks up the custard without becoming mushy.
  3. Make the custard: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla extract, and sea salt until well combined.
  4. Assemble: Place the bread cubes into the slow cooker. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing gently to ensure every piece is coated.
  5. Add sweetness: Drizzle the maple syrup over the top. For a richer flavor, you can swirl it into the custard mixture.
  6. Cook: Cover and cook on the low setting for 2-3 hours, or until the casserole is set in the center and slightly golden around the edges.
  7. Serve: Scoop into bowls and serve warm. Add extra maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or fresh fruit for presentation.
A metal whisk in a glass bowl of liquid mixture with specks, surrounded by measuring cups and ingredients on a white marble surface.
Bread pudding with chunks of bread and a custard mixture is cooking in a black slow cooker, with small bowls containing ingredients nearby on a marble countertop.

Variations

  • Make it festive: Add dried cranberries, raisins, or chopped pecans for holiday gatherings.
  • Chocolate lovers: Sprinkle mini chocolate chips between bread layers before adding custard.
  • Fruit version: Layer in sliced bananas, apples, or blueberries for a fresh twist.
  • Overnight version: Assemble the casserole the night before, refrigerate, and cook in the morning.

Tips for Success

  • Use slightly stale bread so it holds up to the custard. Fresh brioche can make the casserole too soft.
  • Keep the lid closed during cooking. Each time you lift it, steam escapes and adds to the cooking time.
  • To crisp the top a little more, remove the lid for the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  • Serve straight from the crockpot for a casual breakfast, or transfer to a platter and dust with powdered sugar for a more elegant presentation.

FAQs

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, but you'll need a larger slow cooker or two separate batches. Doubling will also extend the cook time slightly.

How do I store leftovers?

Store cooled portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

Can I freeze Crockpot French Toast Casserole?

Yes. Freeze individual portions wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Reheat straight from frozen in the microwave or oven.

A spoonful of bread pudding topped with blueberries is held above a slow cooker filled with more bread pudding, sprinkled with powdered sugar and blueberries.
A baked bread pudding topped with blueberries is shown inside a slow cooker.
Sophie

Crockpot French Toast Casserole

This Slow Cooker Brioche French Toast is the ultimate lazy morning breakfast! Made with fluffy brioche bread, warm cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup, it cooks up soft and custardy on the inside with golden edges. Just toss everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work while you sip your coffee - no flipping or standing at the stove required.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Servings: 8
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Equipment

  • Slow cooker (4-6 quart)
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Nonstick cooking spray or butter
  • Spatula or large spoon for serving

Ingredients
  

  • 10 slices brioche bread cut into 1-2 inch cubes
  • 6 large eggs
  • 2 cups whole milk
  • 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
  • ¼ teaspoon fine sea salt
  • ½ cup maple syrup

Method
 

  1. Lightly grease the inside of your slow cooker with butter or a bit of cooking spray. If you want to make cleanup a breeze (and who doesn't?), line it with parchment paper.
  2. Cut your brioche into bite-sized cubes, about 1-2 inches. Slightly stale bread actually works best-it soaks up the custard without turning soggy.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and sea salt until everything is smooth and well combined.
  4. Add the bread cubes to the slow cooker, then pour the custard evenly over them. Gently press down so all the bread gets coated-no dry corners left behind.
  5. Drizzle maple syrup over the top. You can leave it on the surface for a caramelized finish or stir it in slightly for a more even sweetness.
  6. Cover and cook on LOW for 2 to 3 hours, or until the center is set and the edges are just a little golden. The smell at this point? Heavenly.
  7. Scoop into bowls while warm and drizzle with extra maple syrup, a dusting of powdered sugar, or a handful of berries for a pop of color.

Notes

  • Bread Tip: Day-old brioche gives the best texture-fresh bread can make it too soft.
  • Flavor Boost: Try adding a sprinkle of nutmeg or a handful of raisins or pecans for extra flavor.
  • Make Ahead: Assemble everything the night before, refrigerate, and cook in the morning for a cozy breakfast with zero stress.
  • Serving Suggestion: This slow cooker French toast pairs beautifully with bacon or fresh fruit on the side.

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