Experience the ultimate morning delight with our Slow Cooker Caramel Pecan French Toast. Immerse yourself in the lavish fusion of velvety custard-infused bread, sweet caramel drizzle, and the nutty crunch of pecans. Rooted in the heart of French culinary traditions, French toast has long been the ideal solution to revive day-old bread into a morning masterpiece. With the magic touch of a slow cooker, this rendition turns a beloved classic into an exquisite morning feast, ideal for those celebratory brunches or laid-back Sundays.
This Slow Cooker Caramel Pecan French Toast pairs harmoniously with a myriad of accompaniments. Imagine a gentle dollop of whipped cream or a light sprinkle of powdered sugar enhancing its creamy texture. A handful of fresh berries, be it strawberries or blueberries, introduces a fresh twist to its opulence. For those who fancy a sweet and savory mix, crispy bacon or juicy sausage links will offer an irresistible counterpoint to its sweetness. Whichever way you garnish, this dish is bound to be a showstopper.
Slow Cooker Caramel Pecan French Toast:
Ingredients:
1 loaf of challah or brioche bread, torn into chunks (best if a day old)
1 and 3/4 cups of half-and-half
1 cup of coarsely chopped pecans
4 large eggs
3 tablespoons of brown sugar
2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
1 tablespoon of vanilla extract
1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
A pinch of salt
Instructions (Preparation Night):
In a food processor, combine butter and brown sugar until it forms a crumbly texture.
Toss this crumbly mixture with the pecans and set aside.
In a separate bowl, mix the half-and-half, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt, ensuring a smooth blend.
Drench the bread pieces in this custard mix, pressing slightly to ensure uniform soaking. Seal the bowl and place it in the fridge overnight.
Instructions (Morning of Serving):
Bring out the custard-soaked bread, allowing it to settle to room temperature as you ready your slow cooker.
Transfer the bread mix to a greased slow cooker, leveling it out with a spatula. Scatter the pecan mixture generously on top.
Cook on low for 3 hours or opt for a quicker version on high for 1.5 hours. To check its readiness, poke the center with a knife; if it emerges clean, your French toast is set!
Let it stand for a few moments post-cooking. As you serve, drench the warm slices with caramel sauce, perhaps even a sprinkle of pecans or a dusting of powdered sugar for that picture-perfect finish.