Imagine waking up to the most decadent, mouthwatering breakfast that practically cooks itself while you sleep! This slow cooker French toast is not just a recipe; it's a morning miracle that transforms ordinary bread into a heavenly, caramel-soaked masterpiece. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, Mimi's Caramel Pecan French Toast is about to become your new weekend breakfast obsession that will have everyone begging for seconds.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cut into slices
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your slow cooker. Lightly grease the inside of the slow cooker with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter to prevent sticking.
- Take the loaf of French bread and cut it into thick slices, approximately 1 to
- 5 inches wide. Arrange the slices in a single layer on a cutting board or a large plate.
- In a large mixing bowl, crack the 6 large eggs and whisk them until well beaten. Add in the 1 cup of milk, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon. Whisk all the ingredients together until the mixture is smooth and the sugar is dissolved.
- Next, pour half of the egg mixture evenly over the slices of French bread, ensuring that each slice is well coated. Allow the bread to soak for about 5-10 minutes.
- While the bread is soaking, take the 1 cup of chopped pecans and toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they are fragrant and lightly browned. Remove from heat and set aside.
- After the bread has soaked, layer the slices into the slow cooker, placing them vertically or horizontally as needed. Pour the remaining egg mixture over the top, ensuring that all slices are saturated.
- Sprinkle the toasted pecans evenly over the top of the bread mixture. Drizzle the 1/2 cup of maple syrup over the entire dish, allowing it to seep into the layers of bread.
- Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set it to cook on low for approximately 6 hours. Avoid lifting the lid during the cooking process to maintain the heat.
- Once the cooking time is complete, check the French toast for doneness. It should be puffed up and set in the center. If it appears too soft, allow it to cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- When ready to serve, carefully lift the lid and let the steam escape. Use a spatula to scoop out servings of the caramel pecan French toast, ensuring to get some of the pecans and syrup with each portion.
- Serve warm, optionally garnishing with additional maple syrup, whipped cream, or fresh fruit as desired. Enjoy your delicious Mimi's Caramel Pecan French Toast!
Tips
- Choose the right bread: Use day-old French bread or challah for the best texture and absorption of the custard mixture.
- Toasting pecans is crucial: Take the extra few minutes to toast your pecans - it dramatically enhances their flavor and adds a delightful crunch.
- Don't rush the cooking: Slow cookers work magic with low and slow cooking. Resist the temptation to peek too often, as this releases heat and extends cooking time.
- Customize your toppings: While delicious as-is, feel free to add fresh berries, a dollop of whipped cream, or a sprinkle of powdered sugar before serving.
- Prep ahead: You can assemble this dish the night before and refrigerate, then start cooking first thing in the morning for a stress-free breakfast.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 580kcal
Carbohydrates: 65g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 225mg
