Slow Cooker Pumpkin French Toast Casserole Recipe
This Slow Cooker Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is the perfect fall-inspired breakfast or brunch dish. It’s packed with warm pumpkin spice flavors, creamy custard, and soft bread, making it a cozy, hands-off recipe for busy mornings or holiday gatherings!
Ingredients (Serves 6-8):
For the French Toast Casserole:
- 1 loaf of bread (about 10 cups, cubed; brioche, challah, or French bread work great)
- 6 large eggs
- 1 1/2 cups milk (whole milk or half-and-half for a richer dish)
- 1 cup pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
- 1 1/2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice (or a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Topping:
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
For Serving:
- Maple syrup
- Powdered sugar (optional)
- Whipped cream (optional)
Instructions:
1.Prepare the bread:
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and let it sit out for a few hours to dry, or lightly toast in the oven at 300°F (150°C) for 10-15 minutes. Stale bread works best for soaking up the custard.
2.Make the custard mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, vanilla extract, pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, and salt until smooth.
3.Assemble in the slow cooker:
- Grease the inside of the slow cooker with butter or nonstick spray.
- Add the bread cubes to the slow cooker. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the bread, pressing down gently to ensure all the bread is soaked.
4.Optional topping:
- If using, mix the chopped pecans (or walnuts) with brown sugar and cinnamon. Sprinkle the mixture over the top of the casserole.
5.Cook:
- Cover and cook on low for 4 hours or on high for 2-3 hours, until the casserole is set and the top is slightly golden.
6. Serve
- Let the casserole cool for 5-10 minutes, then serve warm with maple syrup, powdered sugar, or whipped cream.
Tips:
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the sugar slightly or drizzle extra maple syrup on top when serving.
- Make ahead: Assemble the casserole the night before, cover, and refrigerate. Cook it in the morning for an easy breakfast.
- For crispy edges: If your slow cooker has a crisping lid or oven-safe insert, you can broil the casserole briefly to crisp up the top before serving.
This Slow Cooker Pumpkin French Toast Casserole is a crowd-pleaser and a great way to bring cozy fall flavors to your breakfast table! 🍂
