Start your day on a sweet note with this mouthwatering Slow Cooker Maple Pecan French Toast Casserole. Made with wholesome ingredients like French bread, pecans, eggs, and maple syrup, this indulgent dish is perfect for breakfast or brunch gatherings. Simply prepare the ingredients, let them soak together overnight, and wake up to the irresistible aroma of freshly baked French toast. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can enjoy a decadent breakfast with minimal effort.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 8 large eggs
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup maple syrup, plus more for serving
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- Butter for greasing
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and chop the pecans.
- Grease the Slow Cooker: Lightly grease the insert of your slow cooker with butter to prevent sticking.
- Layer the Bread and Pecans: Place half of the cubed French bread in the bottom of the slow cooker. Sprinkle half of the chopped pecans over the bread cubes. Repeat the layers with the remaining bread and pecans.
- Prepare the Custard Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, whole milk, heavy cream, maple syrup, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and salt until well combined.
- Pour Over the Bread: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread and pecans in the slow cooker, making sure to coat all the bread cubes.
- Soak Overnight: Cover the slow cooker insert with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate overnight to allow the bread to soak up the custard mixture.
- Cook in the Morning: In the morning, remove the slow cooker insert from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while you preheat the slow cooker.
- Sprinkle with Brown Sugar: Before cooking, sprinkle the top of the French toast casserole with brown sugar for a caramelized crust.
- Cook on Low: Place the slow cooker insert back into the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the French toast is set and golden brown on the edges.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, serve the Maple Pecan French Toast Casserole warm, drizzled with additional maple syrup if desired.
Cook’s Notes and Variations:
- Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the French toast casserole the night before and refrigerate it overnight. In the morning, simply cook it in the slow cooker for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Nut-Free Option: Omit the pecans for a nut-free version of the French toast casserole. You can also substitute with chopped almonds or walnuts if preferred.
- Flavor Variations: Get creative with flavor variations by adding ingredients like sliced bananas, diced apples, or chocolate chips to the custard mixture for a twist on traditional French toast.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):
Q: Can I use stale bread for this recipe? A: Yes, using slightly stale bread can actually improve the texture of the French toast casserole, as it absorbs the custard mixture better. However, fresh bread will also work well in this recipe.
Q: Can I use a different type of milk? A: Yes, you can use any type of milk you prefer, such as almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk, as a substitute for whole milk.
Q: Can I cook this on high instead of low in the slow cooker? A: While it’s possible to cook the French toast casserole on high for a shorter period, it’s recommended to cook it on low for best results. Cooking on low ensures that the custard cooks evenly and the bread doesn’t become too dry or overcooked.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to a delightful breakfast with this Slow Cooker Maple Pecan French Toast Casserole. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, this dish is sure to become a favorite for special occasions or lazy weekend mornings. Prepare it ahead of time for added convenience and wake up to a warm and satisfying meal that’s packed with goodness. Indulge in the sweet combination of maple syrup, pecans, and cinnamon, and savor every decadent bite of this irresistible French toast casserole.
By following this recipe, you’ll embark on a culinary journey that celebrates the joys of breakfast indulgence. Whether you’re hosting a brunch gathering or treating yourself to a leisurely morning at home, this Slow Cooker Maple Pecan French Toast Casserole promises to elevate your breakfast experience. So gather your ingredients, fire up your slow cooker, and prepare to delight in the deliciousness of this comforting breakfast treat!
