Imagine waking up to the most decadent, mouthwatering breakfast that practically cooks itself while you sleep! This Caramel Pecan Slow Cooker French Toast is not just a recipe—it's a morning miracle that transforms ordinary bread into a luxurious, custardy dream. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, this dish will turn even the most reluctant morning person into a breakfast enthusiast, promising a rich, gooey experience that'll have everyone racing to the kitchen.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 4 hrs
Total Time: 4 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of French bread, cubed
- 6 large eggs
- 1 cup milk
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 cup pecans, chopped
- 1/2 cup caramel sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Cut the French bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them evenly in a greased slow cooker, ensuring they're loosely arranged to allow absorption of the custard mixture.
- Create the custard base: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, heavy cream, brown sugar, and vanilla extract until thoroughly combined and smooth, ensuring no sugar lumps remain.
- Combine ingredients: Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread cubes in the slow cooker, gently pressing down to help the bread absorb the liquid. Use a spatula to ensure all bread pieces are coated.
- Add pecans: Sprinkle the chopped pecans uniformly across the top of the bread mixture, allowing them to settle between the bread cubes for even distribution.
- Prepare for cooking: Cover the slow cooker with its lid and set to low heat setting. This will allow the French toast to cook slowly and develop rich, deep flavors.
- Slow cook: Allow the dish to cook for approximately 4 hours. Avoid lifting the lid frequently to maintain consistent temperature and moisture.
- Check doneness: Around the
- 5-hour mark, insert a knife into the center to check if the custard is set and the bread is cooked through. The texture should be soft but not soggy.
- Finish and serve: Once cooking is complete, drizzle the caramel sauce over the top of the French toast. Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to slightly set and flavors to meld.
- Serving suggestion: Serve warm, optionally garnished with additional pecans or a sprinkle of powdered sugar. Can be accompanied by extra caramel sauce on the side.
Tips
- Bread Selection: Use day-old French bread for best results, as slightly stale bread absorbs the custard mixture more effectively.
- Even Coating: When pouring the custard, ensure every bread cube is thoroughly soaked by gently pressing down and stirring to distribute the liquid evenly.
- Pecan Placement: Toast the pecans lightly before adding them to enhance their nutty flavor and provide extra crunch.
- Moisture Management: Keep the slow cooker lid closed during cooking to retain moisture and prevent the edges from drying out.
- Caramel Timing: Add caramel sauce just before serving to maintain its glossy texture and prevent it from becoming too absorbed into the dish.
- Make-Ahead Magic: Prepare the entire mixture the night before and refrigerate, then start cooking in the morning for a hassle-free breakfast.
- Serving Suggestion: For an extra indulgent touch, serve with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 480kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 28g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 185mg
