Start your morning off right with this mouthwatering Ultimate Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole. This recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of French bread, cut into cubes
– 8 eggs
– 2 cups of milk
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
– 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/2 cup of butter, melted
– 1/2 cup of brown sugar
– 1/2 cup of chopped pecans
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, heavy cream, sugar, vanilla extract, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Add the bread cubes to the mixture and toss until fully coated. Allow the bread to soak for at least 30 minutes.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together the melted butter, brown sugar, and chopped pecans.
4. Grease the slow cooker and layer the bread mixture followed by the buttery pecan mixture.
5. Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until set.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Nutrition Information:
Calories: 350
Protein: 9g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 170mg
Sodium: 260mg
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 16g
Popular questions:
1. Can I use a different type of bread for this recipe?
– Yes, you can use any other type of bread that you prefer, but French bread works best for its texture and taste.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
– Yes, you can prepare the casserole the night before, refrigerate it, and then cook it in the slow cooker in the morning.
3. Can I omit the nuts from the recipe?
– Yes, you can leave out the pecans if you have a nut allergy or prefer not to use them.
4. How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
– You can substitute the milk and heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative like almond milk and coconut cream.
5. Can I freeze leftovers of this French Toast Casserole?
– Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
6. Can I add fruit to the casserole?
– Yes, you can add fruit like berries or sliced bananas between the layers for added flavor and freshness.
7. Can I use whole wheat bread instead of French bread?
– Yes, you can use whole wheat bread for a healthier twist on this recipe.
8. Can I use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for the topping?
– Yes, you can drizzle maple syrup over the casserole instead of using the brown sugar and butter mixture.
9. Can I bake this French Toast Casserole in the oven instead of using a slow cooker?
– Yes, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 45-50 minutes until set.
10. Can I add a splash of rum to the custard mixture?
– Yes, you can add a splash of rum for a delicious boozy flavor to the French Toast Casserole.
Helpful tips:
1. For a decadent twist, drizzle with maple syrup or caramel sauce before serving.
2. Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom for additional warm spices.
3. Serve with fresh berries or a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful touch.
4. Make sure to evenly distribute the bread cubes in the slow cooker for even cooking.
5. Experiment with different types of bread for varied texture and flavor profiles.
6. Customize the sweetness level by adjusting the amount of sugar to your preference.
7. For a crispy top, broil the casserole in the oven for a few minutes after slow cooking.
8. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar for extra flavor before serving.
9. Use day-old bread for a firmer texture in the casserole.
10. To make it more indulgent, top with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a drizzle of chocolate sauce.
Expert Secrets:
1. Use stale bread for better absorption of the custard mixture.
2. Letting the bread soak in the custard mixture for at least 30 minutes ensures a moist and flavorful casserole.
3. Layering the buttery pecan mixture between the bread cubes adds a delicious crunch and nutty flavor.
4. Cook on low heat in the slow cooker to prevent burning and ensure a tender texture.
5. Mixing the custard ingredients thoroughly ensures a creamy and well-blended mixture.
6. Adding a splash of orange zest to the custard mixture enhances the citrusy notes in the casserole.
7. Adjust the amount of spices to suit your taste preferences for a perfectly seasoned French Toast Casserole.
8. Garnish with a sprinkle of powdered sugar for a decorative finish before serving.
9. For a richer taste, substitute the milk with half and half or cream in the custard mixture.
10. Allow the casserole to rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy this delightful Ultimate Slow Cooker French Toast Casserole for a delicious start to your day!