Easy slow cooker French toast casserole became my go-to weekend breakfast the day I decided I wanted to enjoy a cozy brunch without standing by the stove flipping slices one by one and I still remember waking up to the sweet aroma drifting through the house and it felt like a warm hug waiting in the kitchen and everyone gathered around the table with sleepy smiles and excitement and it was one of those moments that turned an ordinary morning into a little celebration and since then I love making it whenever I want to share that same comforting feeling.

This easy slow cooker French toast casserole makes mornings so effortless and I just toss everything together the night before or early in the morning and let the slow cooker do all the work and when it’s time to eat I’m greeted with golden, fluffy cubes soaked in sweet custard and lightly crisp on the edges and it’s the perfect dish for family brunches or lazy holiday mornings when you want something delicious without the fuss and every bite feels like a special treat.

Ingredients

Here’s what I use for this recipe. You can always make substitutions if you prefer!
Brioche or challah bread — The soft, rich bread that soaks up the custard beautifully and gives the casserole its fluffy texture.
Eggs — Create that classic creamy custard base.
Milk or half-and-half — Adds creaminess and richness to the mixture.
Vanilla extract — Gives a warm, sweet aroma throughout.
Cinnamon — Brings that comforting, spiced French toast flavor.
Brown sugar — Adds a deeper sweetness with a slight caramel note.
Maple syrup — Sweetens the casserole and makes it extra indulgent.
Butter — Melts into the bread, making every bite rich and golden.
Powdered sugar — Perfect for dusting on top to finish.
Fresh berries — Optional, but they add brightness and color when serving.

Tools You’ll Need

Large mixing bowl — For whisking the custard ingredients together.
Whisk — Helps blend the eggs, milk, and spices smoothly.
Slow cooker — The star tool that makes this recipe hands-off and easy.
Cooking spray or butter — To grease the slow cooker and prevent sticking.
Measuring cups and spoons — For getting all the ratios just right.
Spatula — For mixing and scooping the finished casserole.
Serving plate — To present the warm, sweet pieces beautifully.

Instructions

Step 1

I start by cutting the brioche or challah bread into large cubes so they’re ready to soak up the custard.

Step 2

In a large mixing bowl, I whisk together the eggs, milk, vanilla extract, cinnamon, brown sugar, and a bit of maple syrup until fully combined and smooth.

Step 3

I lightly grease the slow cooker with cooking spray or butter to keep everything from sticking.

Step 4

I add the bread cubes into the slow cooker, then pour the custard mixture evenly over the top, gently pressing the bread down so it’s fully coated.

Step 5

I drizzle melted butter over everything for extra richness and flavor.

Step 6

I set the slow cooker to low and cook for about 4 hours or on high for about 2 hours, until the casserole is set and the edges are golden.

Step 7

Once it’s done, I let it cool slightly before dusting with powdered sugar and topping with fresh berries or extra maple syrup if desired.

Tips

If you want to prep ahead, I sometimes assemble everything the night before and store the insert in the fridge, then start cooking in the morning. You can also add mix-ins like chocolate chips or chopped nuts for extra flavor. For a slightly crispier top, you can remove the lid during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

Ways to Serve

I love serving this warm right from the slow cooker with a big drizzle of maple syrup. It pairs perfectly with crispy bacon, sausage, or a fresh fruit salad for a complete brunch spread. You can also serve it with whipped cream or yogurt for extra creaminess.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make easy slow cooker French toast casserole overnight?

Yes! You can prepare it the night before, store in the fridge, and start cooking in the morning so it’s ready when you wake up.

What type of bread works best for easy slow cooker French toast casserole?

I recommend brioche or challah for the softest, richest texture, but any thick bread will work.

Can I freeze easy slow cooker French toast casserole?

Absolutely! Freeze leftovers in individual portions, then reheat in the microwave or oven for a quick breakfast.

See You in the Kitchen

I hope you give this easy slow cooker French toast casserole a try! It’s one of my favorite ways to make breakfast feel extra special with almost no effort, and I’d love to hear how it turns out for you. Feel free to share photos or leave a comment below! And if you love it, save this recipe to enjoy again whenever you need a cozy brunch treat.

Happy Cooking!